Glandular dwarf flax facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Glandular dwarf flax |
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|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Hesperolinon
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| Species: |
adenophyllum
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The Hesperolinon adenophyllum, also known as glandular dwarf flax or glandular western flax, is a very special and rare flowering plant. It belongs to the flax family. This plant is found only in California, which means it is endemic to that state. Most of these plants grow in Lake and Mendocino Counties.
About the Glandular Dwarf Flax
This unique plant is an annual herb. This means it grows from a seed, flowers, produces new seeds, and then dies all within one year. It can grow to be between 10 and 50 centimeters tall. That's about the height of a ruler or a little taller!
Where It Lives
The glandular dwarf flax prefers to live in chaparral ecosystems. Chaparral is a type of dry shrubland found in California. It's often hot and dry there. This plant also likes a special kind of ground called serpentine soil. Serpentine soils are unique because they have different minerals than most soils. Many plants find it hard to grow in these soils, but the glandular dwarf flax thrives there!
What It Looks Like
The leaves of the glandular dwarf flax are narrow and shaped like a spear. They have tiny teeth along their edges. These teeth have small, knobby points that are "glandular." This means they might feel a bit sticky or produce tiny droplets.
The flowers of this plant are quite delicate. They have small green parts called sepals at the base, which are also covered in tiny glandular hairs. The flower itself has five thin, bright yellow petals. Inside the flower, you can see the stamens sticking out. These stamens hold large yellow parts called anthers, which contain pollen.
Why It's Rare
The glandular dwarf flax is considered a rare species. This means there are not many of these plants left in the wild. Protecting its natural habitat, especially the chaparral areas with serpentine soils, is very important. This helps ensure that this special plant can continue to grow and thrive for many years to come.
