Manyflower geranium facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Manyflower geranium |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Geranium
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| Species: |
multiflorum
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The Geranium multiflorum, also known as the manyflower geranium or manyflowered cranesbill, is a special and rare plant. In Hawaii, it is also called hinahina and nohoanu. This unique geranium is found only in one place in the world: on the slopes of Haleakalā volcano on the island of Maui in Hawaii. Because it is so rare and only lives in one specific area, it was officially listed as an endangered species in 1992. This means it needs protection to survive.
What Does It Look Like?
The manyflower geranium is a type of shrub. It usually grows about one to two meters (3 to 6.5 feet) tall, but some can reach up to three meters (nearly 10 feet) high.
Its flowers are quite pretty! They can be purple, pink, or white. Often, they have delicate purple lines or veins and a purple center, making them stand out.
Where Does It Live?
This special plant grows on the higher parts of Haleakalā volcano. It prefers to live in forest and grassland areas. The climate there is called a subalpine climate, which means it's cool and high up, similar to mountain regions just below the tree line.
Sadly, there are not many of these plants left. Scientists believe there are probably fewer than 3,000 individual Geranium multiflorum plants remaining in the wild.
Why Is It Endangered?
The main reason the manyflower geranium is in danger is because its home is being damaged. This damage comes from a few sources:
- Feral Animals: Wild feral pigs and feral goats roam the area. They can eat the plants or trample their habitat, making it harder for the geraniums to grow.
- Invasive Plants: Other plant species that are not native to Hawaii have been brought to the island. These non-native plants can grow very fast and take over the space and resources that the native Geranium multiflorum needs to survive.
Protecting the habitat of the manyflower geranium is very important to help this rare Hawaiian plant thrive.
