Laramie chickensage facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Laramie chickensage |
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| Conservation status | |
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| Kingdom: | |
| (unranked): | |
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| Genus: |
Sphaeromeria
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| Species: |
S. simplex
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| Binomial name | |
| Sphaeromeria simplex (A.Nelson) A.Heller
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Sphaeromeria simplex is a special kind of flowering plant. People often call it Laramie chickensage or Laramie false sagebrush. It belongs to the aster family, which includes many well-known flowers like daisies and sunflowers. This plant is only found in one place: the state of Wyoming in the United States. When a plant or animal lives only in one specific area, we say it is endemic to that place.
Contents
What Laramie Chickensage Looks Like
This plant is a small, tough herb that lives for many years. It grows in small groups, forming clumps that are only a few centimeters tall. Imagine a tiny bush that doesn't get very big!
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of the Laramie chickensage are quite interesting. They are divided into many small parts, almost like tiny fingers. When the plant blooms, usually from May to August, it produces unique flower heads. These flower heads are made up of many small, yellow disc florets. Unlike some other aster plants, it does not have any ray florets, which are the petal-like parts you see on a daisy.
Where Laramie Chickensage Grows
The Laramie chickensage prefers to grow in specific places. It likes exposed areas where the ground is made of limestone. Limestone is a type of rock that forms from the shells and skeletons of tiny sea creatures.
Plant Neighbors
In its natural home, the Laramie chickensage often grows near other small, cushion-shaped plants. It can also be found alongside larger plants, such as sagebrush. These plants create a unique habitat together.
How Rare Is It?
This plant is quite rare. Scientists have found only 11 places where it grows. Most of these locations have been discovered since 1997. This means it's important to protect these special areas so the Laramie chickensage can continue to thrive.
