Mojave hole-in-the-sand plant facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Nicolletia occidentalis |
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Tageteae
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N. occidentalis
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| Nicolletia occidentalis |
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Nicolletia occidentalis is a cool flowering plant. It belongs to the marigold tribe and the daisy family. People often call it the Mojave hole-in-the-sand plant.
You can find this flower growing naturally in California, especially in the Mojave Desert. It also grows in northern Baja California.
About the Mojave Hole-in-the-Sand Plant
The Nicolletia occidentalis is a plant that loves the desert. It's a type of perennial herb, which means it lives for more than two years. It often looks a bit like a skeleton.
Plant Features
This plant has narrow, fleshy leaves. Each leaf ends in a small, stiff bristle. The leaves also have special oil glands. These glands release a strong, not-so-nice smell.
The plant grows from a very deep taproot in the desert sand. Sometimes, you might see a dip or hole in the sand around its stem. This unique feature is how it got its common name, the "Mojave hole-in-the-sand plant."
Beautiful Flowers
The Mojave hole-in-the-sand plant has really pretty flowers. They have bright pink ray florets that curve outwards. The center of the flowers is a cheerful yellow color.
