Isodendrion pyrifolium facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Isodendrion pyrifolium |
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| Conservation status | |
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Isodendrion
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| Species: |
pyrifolium
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Isodendrion pyrifolium is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the violet family. Its common Hawaiian name is wahine noho kula. This plant is endemic to Hawaii. This means it grows naturally only in Hawaii. It is found only on the island of Hawaii. The United States government has listed it as an endangered species. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever.
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The Wahine Noho Kula Plant
The wahine noho kula is a type of shrub. A shrub is like a small bush. It can grow from about 0.8 to 2 meters tall. That's roughly the height of a tall person! This plant has special greenish-yellow flowers.
A Plant Thought Lost
Long ago, the wahine noho kula plant was found on at least six of the Hawaiian Islands. But after the year 1870, no one saw it anymore. People thought it had become extinct. This means they believed it had completely died out.
Then, in 1991, something amazing happened. The plant was rediscovered! It was found on the island of Hawaii. There was a group of about 60 plants near Kailua.
Why It's Still in Danger
Sadly, by 2007, most of these plants had died. Only three wild plants were left. These few plants live in a dry forest area. This area is changing because of new buildings and homes.
The plant's home is threatened by this development. Also, non-native plants are a big problem. One example is fountain grass. This grass was brought to Hawaii by people. It grows very fast and can increase the risk of fires. Fires can easily destroy the wahine noho kula's habitat.
Helping the Wahine Noho Kula
To help save this rare plant, a few more individuals have been planted. These new plants are in suitable areas nearby. Scientists and conservationists are working hard to protect the remaining plants. They want to make sure this special Hawaiian plant does not disappear.
