Dryas (plant) Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Dryas (plant)

Dryas × suendermannii
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
(unranked):	Angiosperms
(unranked):	Eudicots
(unranked):	Rosids
Order:	Rosales
Family:	Rosaceae
Subfamily:	Dryadoideae
Genus:	Dryas

Dryas is a special group of flowering plants that belong to the Rosaceae family, also known as the rose family. These plants are often found in cold, northern places. They are known for their beautiful, often white or yellow, flowers.

What are Dryas Plants?
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What are Dryas Plants?

Dryas is a genus of plants. A genus is like a small group of very similar plants. All Dryas plants share many features, but each species within the genus has its own unique traits. They are usually small, low-growing plants that spread out along the ground.

Where Do Dryas Plants Live?

Dryas plants are super tough! They can live in very cold places, like the Arctic and high up in mountains. You might find them in places like tundras or rocky slopes. They are well-adapted to harsh weather, strong winds, and short growing seasons.

Types of Dryas Plants

There are a few different kinds of Dryas plants. Each one has its own name and sometimes a common name too. Here are the main ones:

Dryas drummondii – This one is often called Drummond's avens.
Dryas integrifolia – This is known as the Entire-leaved avens.
Dryas octopetala – This is the famous Mountain avens. It often has eight petals, which is where its name "octopetala" comes from.
Dryas × suendermannii – This is a special hybrid plant. It's a mix of D. drummondii and D. octopetala.

Why Are Dryas Plants Important?

Dryas plants are important for a few reasons. They help to hold soil in place in windy, cold areas. They also provide food and shelter for small animals and insects in their harsh habitats. Their ability to grow in such tough conditions makes them very interesting to scientists.