Hosackia stipularis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hosackia stipularis |
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Hosackia stipularis, also known as Lotus stipularis, is a special type of plant called a legume. It is found only in California, which means it is endemic to that state. Its common name is balsam bird's-foot trefoil.
This plant grows in many parts of northern and central California. You can find it in coastal areas, mountains, and foothills. It likes different kinds of places, such as forests, chaparral (a type of shrubland), and even areas that have been disturbed by people.
What it Looks Like
Hosackia stipularis is a plant that stands mostly upright. It is a perennial herb, meaning it lives for more than two years. The plant often has many leaves and can be a bit hairy or sticky.
Leaves and Stems
Its branches are thin and have many leaves. Each leaf is made up of several smaller parts called leaflets. These leaflets can grow up to 2 centimeters long. Sometimes, the leaves also have small, leaf-like parts at their base called stipules.
Flowers and Fruit
The flowers of Hosackia stipularis grow in a tight cluster. There can be up to nine pink flowers in each cluster. Each flower is long and narrow, growing from a cup-shaped base called a calyx. The whole flower can be more than a centimeter long. After the flowers, the plant produces a legume pod. This pod is about 2 to 3 centimeters long and holds several seeds that look like small beans.
