Pityrodia ternifolia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pityrodia ternifolia |
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| F.J.H. von Mueller, Fragmenta Phytographiae Australiae, vol. 1: t. 2 (1859) (artist: Ludwig Becker | |
| Conservation status | |
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LC (TPWCA)
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Pityrodia
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| Species: |
ternifolia
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| Occurrence data from the ALA | |
| Synonyms | |
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Denisonia ternifolia F.Muell. |
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Pityrodia ternifolia is a fascinating flowering plant. It belongs to the mint family, which scientists call Lamiaceae. This plant is special because it grows naturally only in certain parts of Australia. You can find it in the Northern Territory and Western Australia. It was first described in 1859.
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Where Does Pityrodia ternifolia Grow?
This plant is found in the wild in two main areas of Australia. These are the Northern Territory and Western Australia. It likes to grow in specific natural regions called IBRA Bioregions.
Its Home in Western Australia
In Western Australia, Pityrodia ternifolia grows in a region known as the Northern Kimberley. This area is famous for its rugged landscapes and unique plants.
Its Home in the Northern Territory
The plant also thrives in many parts of the Northern Territory. Besides the Northern Kimberley, it can be found in several other IBRA Bioregions. These include the Arnhem Coast, Arnhem Plateau, and Darwin Coastal areas. It also grows in the Gulf Coastal and Gulf Fall and Uplands regions. You might also spot it in the Ord Victoria Plain, Pine Creek, and Victoria Bonaparte areas. This shows it can adapt to different environments within the Northern Territory.
What Does Pityrodia ternifolia Look Like?
Like all plants, Pityrodia ternifolia has unique features. It is a flowering plant, meaning it produces flowers. These flowers are important for its reproduction. The plant's name, ternifolia, gives us a clue about its leaves. "Ternifolia" means "three-leaved," suggesting its leaves might grow in groups of three. This is a common way scientists name plants, using Latin words to describe their features.
The Mint Family Connection
Pityrodia ternifolia is part of the Lamiaceae family, also known as the mint family. This family includes many well-known plants like mint, basil, and lavender. Plants in the mint family often have square stems and fragrant leaves. While Pityrodia ternifolia might not smell like your toothpaste, it shares common features with these plants.
Why Are Native Plants Important?
Native plants like Pityrodia ternifolia are very important for their local environments. They provide food and shelter for native animals. They also help keep the soil healthy and prevent erosion. Learning about these plants helps us understand and protect Australia's amazing biodiversity.
