Limestone phebalium facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Limestone phebalium |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Leionema
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| Species: |
microphyllum
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The limestone phebalium (scientific name: Leionema microphyllum) is a small bush that grows pretty white or pink flowers. These flowers appear in groups at the end of its branches, usually in spring. This plant is quite rare and can only be found in a few places in Victoria and South Australia.
What it Looks Like
The limestone phebalium is a small bush, usually growing up to about 40 centimeters (about 16 inches) tall. Its branches are round and can be covered with tiny star-shaped hairs, or they can be smooth.
Its leaves are tough and feel a bit like leather. They are small, only about 3 to 5 millimeters long and 2 to 4 millimeters wide. They can be shaped like an egg, or a bit wider, and sometimes have a heart-shaped tip. Like the branches, the leaves can also have tiny star-shaped hairs or be smooth.
The flowers are the main attraction! They grow in small groups of 1 to 4 flowers at the very end of the branches. The petals are white or pink, shaped like narrow eggs, and about 4 millimeters long. The parts of the flower that hold pollen (called stamens) are almost as long as the petals. After the flowers, the plant produces dry fruits that are about 4 millimeters high and have a bumpy surface.
Where it Comes From
This plant was first officially described in 1855 by a scientist named Ferdinand von Mueller. He first gave it the name Eriostemon microphyllus. Later, in 1998, another scientist named Paul G. Wilson changed its name to Leionema microphyllum. This new name was published in a science journal called Nuytsia.
The second part of its scientific name, microphyllum, comes from ancient Greek words. "Micro" means "small," and "phyllus" means "leaved." So, microphyllum basically means "small-leaved," which makes sense because its leaves are tiny!
Where it Grows
The limestone phebalium is not found in many places. In Victoria, Australia, it mostly grows in areas with heathland, which is a type of open shrubland. It was once known in the Natimuk area, but hasn't been seen there since 1962. However, it was found again near Lake Hindmarsh in 2014. In South Australia, you can find it in the southern part of the Eyre Peninsula.
