Mexican honeysuckle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mexican honeysuckle |
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| Mexican honeysuckle: Justicia spicigera | |
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Justicia spicigera is a cool plant known by many names! You might hear it called Mexican honeysuckle, firecracker bush, or muicle. It's an evergreen shrub with bright orange, tube-shaped flowers. This plant naturally grows in countries like Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
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What is Mexican Honeysuckle?
Muicle shrubs are plants that live for many years. They can grow in sunny spots or places with some shade. These shrubs usually reach about 2 to 5 feet tall. Their leaves are around 2 inches long. The bright orange flowers are a favorite snack for hummingbirds!
This plant loves warm weather. However, it can handle slightly cold temperatures, down to about -3 °C (26 °F).
Amazing Colors
Muicle is special because its leaves can change color when boiled. You might see purple, pink, green, or orange colors! The color depends on the plant's pH level. pH is a way to measure how acidic or basic something is. Different pH levels change the plant's molecules, which then changes its color.
Plant Power: Phytochemicals
The leaves and flowers of muicle contain many natural chemicals. These are called phytochemicals. They include things like carbohydrates, pectins, flavonoids, and tannins. The plant also has essential oils and important minerals.
How People Use Muicle
People use muicle in many interesting ways!
Making Tea and Dye
One common use is to make a tea. You just boil the leaves in water. As the leaves boil, they turn the water a deep blue or indigo color. This is why the plant has also been used for a long time to make natural dyes. Imagine dyeing clothes with a plant!
Traditional Uses
Muicle has also been used as a traditional medicine for different health issues. People have used it for many years in folk remedies.
Brightening Laundry
Believe it or not, muicle is also used to help brighten laundry! It can act like a natural brightening agent when washing clothes.
See also
In Spanish: Moyotli para niños
