Myrceugenia rufa facts for kids

Myrceugenia rufa is a special type of shrub found only in Chile. It belongs to the Myrceugenia genus, which is part of the Myrtaceae family. This plant grows in small forest areas near the coast. Sadly, it is considered an "endangered" plant, meaning it is at high risk of disappearing forever.

What Myrceugenia rufa Looks Like

Myrceugenia rufa is an evergreen shrub, which means it keeps its leaves all year round. It can grow up to about 2 meters (6.5 feet) tall. Its young stems are covered in tiny hairs, making them feel soft.

The plant has small leaves that grow in pairs. Each leaf has a hairy stem and is oval or oblong with smooth edges. The leaves are rounded at both ends. They are yellowish-green on top and a lighter green underneath.

Its flowers grow alone or in small groups of two or three where the leaves meet the stem. The flower stems are also hairy. The flowers have white petals and a large cluster of 60 to 100 stamens (the parts that make pollen). They also have one style (the part that receives pollen).

After flowering, the plant produces small berries. These berries are about 4 to 8 millimeters (0.15 to 0.3 inches) wide. They start green, then turn yellow, and finally orange when they are ripe. The plant flowers from August to October, and its fruits are ready in February and March.

Where Myrceugenia rufa Lives

Myrceugenia rufa is only found in Chile. It grows in coastal areas, stretching from the Coquimbo Region south to San Antonio Province. You can find it from 10 to 700 meters (about 33 to 2,300 feet) above sea level.

This shrub often grows on coastal cliffs or within about 15 kilometers (9 miles) of the coast. It prefers deep, hard-to-reach spots in the remaining forest areas. You might often see it growing among other types of myrtle plants.

Insects sometimes attack the fruits, eating the flesh and seeds. Because it is uncommon and faces threats, Myrceugenia rufa is listed as an "endangered" species. This means efforts are needed to protect it.