Klamath fleabane facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Klamath fleabane |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Erigeron
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| Species: |
klamathensis
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| Synonyms | |
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The Erigeron klamathensis is a type of flowering plant found in North America. It is part of the daisy family and is commonly known as the Klamath fleabane. This plant was studied by scientists for many years. For a long time, people thought it was just a variety of another plant called E. foliosus. However, in 2004, scientists finally realized it was its own unique species!
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Discovering the Klamath Fleabane Plant
The Klamath fleabane is a special plant that grows in the wild. It has a scientific name, Erigeron klamathensis, and a common name, Klamath fleabane. It belongs to the large and colorful daisy family.
Where Does This Plant Live?
This plant is native to a specific area in the United States. You can find the Klamath fleabane growing naturally in the Klamath Ranges. This region is located in the southwestern part of Oregon and the northwestern part of California.
What Does the Klamath Fleabane Look Like?
The Klamath fleabane is a type of plant called a perennial herb. This means it lives for more than two years. It can grow up to about 20 centimeters (or 8 inches) tall.
Its Roots and Stems
The plant has a strong, woody taproot. This is a main root that grows straight down into the soil. Its stem is covered with stiff, straight hairs. This is a special feature that helps tell it apart from some other similar plants.
Its Leaves and Flowers
Most of the leaves on the Klamath fleabane grow along its stem. They are not all crowded together near the ground. Each stem can produce between one and five flower heads. Each flower head is like a small bouquet! It can have up to 30 purple or lavender ray florets. These are the petal-like parts that spread out from the center. In the middle of the flower head, you will find many small, yellow disc florets.
A Plant Discovered in 2004
For many years, botanists, who are plant scientists, collected and studied the Klamath fleabane. They often thought it was just a variation of another plant species. It wasn't until the year 2004 that scientists officially recognized it as a completely separate and unique species. This shows how new discoveries can still be made in the natural world!
