Phebalium appressum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Phebalium appressum |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Phebalium
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| Species: |
appressum
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Phebalium appressum is a special kind of shrub that grows only in the southwest part of Western Australia. It's pretty unique because it's covered in shiny, silver-like scales. Its leaves are shaped like eggs or hearts and are pressed close to its stems. The flowers have cool rust-colored scales on their tiny stalks. This plant is very rare and has only been found in one known spot!
What it Looks Like
Phebalium appressum is a round-shaped shrub that usually grows up to about 1 meter (3 feet) tall. It's often covered in shiny, silver-like scales, which makes it look quite special!
Its leaves are very close together and don't have their own stalks (they are sessile). They are shaped like eggs or hearts, about 2 millimeters long and 1.5 millimeters wide. These leaves are pressed flat against the branches.
The flowers are white and grow either alone or in pairs at the ends of the small branches. The tiny stalks that hold the flowers (called pedicels) are about 1 millimeter long and thick. They are covered in rust-colored scales. The small leaf-like parts that protect the flower bud (called sepals) are about 1.5 millimeters long. They are joined at the bottom and also have rust-colored scales on the outside. This plant usually blooms in July.
How it Got its Name
This plant, Phebalium appressum, was officially described for the first time in 1998. It was named by a scientist named Paul Wilson. He wrote about it in a science journal called Nuytsia. The plant he studied to give it its name was found north of Coolgardie in 1991.
Where it Lives
This type of phebalium plant grows in yellow, sandy areas. It has only ever been found in one place, which is north of Coolgardie in Western Australia.
Protecting This Plant
Phebalium appressum is listed as "Priority One" by the Government of Western Australia's Department of Parks and Wildlife. This means that scientists know it only grows in one or a few places. These places could be at risk, so it's very important to protect this rare plant!
