Eremophila victoriae facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eremophila victoriae |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eremophila (plant)
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| Species: |
victoriae
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The Eremophila victoriae is a small, special shrub. It has leaves that are shaped like eggs and pretty purple flowers. This plant is only found in one place: Western Australia. Specifically, it grows in the Great Victoria Desert.
Contents
What Does Eremophila Victoriae Look Like?
This shrub usually grows to be about 40 to 50 centimeters (about 1.5 feet) tall. It can spread out to be 40 to 75 centimeters (about 2.5 feet) wide. Its branches are grey and feel a bit sticky because they have tiny hairs called glandular hairs.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of Eremophila victoriae grow one after another along the stem. They are directly attached, meaning they don't have a little stalk. These leaves are sticky and shaped like an egg, with slightly thicker edges. Each leaf is small, only about 3 to 4 millimeters long and 2 to 3 millimeters wide.
The flowers are purple and grow one by one where the leaves meet the stem. Each flower sits on a small stalk that is 4 to 5 millimeters long. This stalk is also covered in those sticky glandular hairs.
Flower Parts
The flower has five brownish-green parts called sepals. These sepals are shaped like a spear or an egg. They are 5 to 8 millimeters long and partly covered with glandular hairs. The main part of the flower, called the petal tube, is purple. It's 10 to 20 millimeters long and has glandular hairs on the outside. Inside, it's smooth. There are four stamens (the parts that make pollen) hidden inside the petal tube. They also have glandular hairs on their tiny stalks.
When Does It Flower?
Eremophila victoriae mostly flowers from August to October. But it can also bloom at other times, especially after it rains.
Where Does Eremophila Victoriae Live?
This unique shrub is only found in two specific spots within the vast Great Victoria Desert. It likes to grow in areas where a type of tree called Mulga (a kind of acacia) is common.
Why Is Eremophila Victoriae Special?
The Government of Western Australia's Department of Parks and Wildlife has given Eremophila victoriae a special status. It's called "Priority One". This means the plant is known from only a few places. Because of this, it might be at risk and needs protection.
