Primula frenchii facts for kids

French's shootingstar (scientific name: Primula frenchii) is a beautiful flowering plant. It belongs to the Primulaceae family, which includes many other lovely flowers. This plant is known for its unique look, often found in specific parts of the United States.

French's Shootingstar

French's shootingstar is a special kind of plant. It gets its common name from its flowers, which often look like they are shooting upwards. This plant is a true native of North America.

Where it Grows

This plant loves to live in the central and southern parts of the United States. You can find it growing naturally in states like southern Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Alabama.

It prefers places that are a bit wet and shady. Imagine a cool, damp spot near a stream or under the shade of tall trees. French's shootingstar often grows on ledges or under sandstone cliffs. These spots provide the perfect environment for it to thrive.

A Changing Name

The scientific name of French's shootingstar has changed a few times! When it was first discovered in 1891, it was called Dodecatheon meadia var. frenchii. This means it was seen as a variety of another plant.

Later, in 1932, scientists decided it was unique enough to be its own species. So, its name changed to Dodecatheon frenchii. Then, in 2007, after more study, it was moved into the Primula genus. This is why its current scientific name is Primula frenchii. These name changes happen when scientists learn more about how plants are related to each other.