Eremogone aculeata facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eremogone aculeata |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eremogone
|
| Species: |
aculeata
|
| Synonyms | |
|
|
Eremogone aculeata, also known as prickly sandwort, is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family, which includes many kinds of pinks and carnations. This plant grows naturally in the western parts of the United States. You can find it in places like the southern sagebrush steppe, in mountains, on volcanic soil, and on rocky hillsides.
What is Prickly Sandwort?
Prickly sandwort is a plant that lives for many years, meaning it's a perennial. It grows in clumps and forms a mat-like shape on the ground. Its stems are short, covered in tiny hairs, and feel a bit waxy.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of the prickly sandwort are very thin and pointed, almost like needles. They can grow up to 3 or 4 centimeters long. When the plant blooms, its flowers grow in an open group called an inflorescence. Each flower has five white petals that are shaped like a spear or an oval. These petals are about half to one centimeter long.
Fruit and Seeds
After the flowers bloom, the plant produces a fruit. This fruit is a small capsule with a toothed edge. Inside the capsule, there are several tiny yellowish seeds. These seeds help the plant to reproduce and grow new prickly sandwort plants.
Where Does it Grow?
Prickly sandwort is native to the western United States. It likes to grow in specific types of environments. You can often find it in:
- The southern sagebrush steppe, which is a dry area with many sagebrush plants.
- Mountainous areas, where it can handle cooler temperatures.
- Volcanic soils, which are rich in certain minerals.
- Rocky slopes, where its roots can find a hold.
