One-stalked lobelia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids One-stalked lobelia |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Lobelia
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| Species: |
monostachya
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The Lobelia monostachya, also known as the one-stalked lobelia, is a special kind of flowering plant. It belongs to the Campanulaceae family, which includes many bell-shaped flowers. This plant is endemic to the island of Oʻahu in Hawaii. This means it grows naturally only in Oʻahu and nowhere else in the world!
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What is the One-Stalked Lobelia?
The one-stalked lobelia is a unique plant that was once thought to be completely gone from the Earth. Luckily, it was found again in 1994. Today, only about 8 of these plants are known to exist. This makes it one of the rarest plants in the world!
Where Does it Live?
This rare plant lives on the cliffs of the southern Koʻolau Mountains on Oʻahu. It grows in a type of forest called a mesic shrubland. "Mesic" means the area has a moderate amount of moisture. It can be found at elevations from about 44 to 614 meters (144 to 2,014 feet) above sea level. Imagine finding a plant clinging to a cliffside!
Why is it So Rare?
The main reason the one-stalked lobelia is so rare is habitat loss. This happens when the natural places where plants and animals live are destroyed or changed. For this lobelia, its cliffside home is very specific, and any changes to it can threaten the plant's survival. Protecting its habitat is super important to keep this amazing plant from disappearing forever.
What Plants Grow Near It?
The one-stalked lobelia doesn't grow alone. It shares its home with other native Hawaiian plants. Some of its plant neighbors include Artemisia australis, Carex meyenii, different types of Eragrostis grasses, and Psilotum nudum. These plants form a unique ecosystem on the Oʻahu cliffs.
