Gunniopsis rubra facts for kids

Gunniopsis rubra is a special type of plant known as a succulent. This means it can store water in its leaves or stems, helping it survive in dry places. It belongs to the iceplant family, called Aizoaceae. This plant is endemic to Western Australia, which means it grows naturally only in that part of the world.

What is Gunniopsis rubra?

Gunniopsis rubra is a small plant that grows flat along the ground. It is an annual herb, meaning it lives for only one year, completing its life cycle from seed to flower and then dying. This tiny plant usually grows to be about 1 to 3 centimeters (less than 2 inches) tall. It produces small green flowers, and you can usually see them blooming in September.

Where it Lives

This unique plant is found in the inland areas of Western Australia. Specifically, it grows in the Mid West and Wheatbelt regions. It prefers to grow in loamy soils, which are a mix of sand, silt, and clay. These soils are good for plants because they hold water well but also drain properly.

How it was Discovered

The Gunniopsis rubra was first officially described by a scientist named Robert Chinnock. He wrote about it in 1983. His description was published in an article called The Australian genus Gunniopsis Pax (Aizoaceae). This article appeared in a scientific publication known as the Journal of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens. When a plant is "formally described," it means scientists have given it a proper name and written down all its features so others can identify it.