Prunus huantensis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Prunus huantensis |
|
|---|---|
| Scientific classification |
The Prunus huantensis is a type of tree that grows in the mountain forests of South America. You can find it in countries like Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. It's sometimes called the "Andean Cherry" because it's related to other cherry trees. This tree is a special part of the amazing plant life in the Andes Mountains.
Contents
What Does the Andean Cherry Look Like?
This plant can be a large bush or a tall tree. It can grow up to 27 meters (about 89 feet) high, which is as tall as a seven-story building! Its branches are brown and have small spots called lenticels. These spots help the tree breathe.
Leaves, Flowers, and Fruits
The leaves of the Prunus huantensis are quite big. They are usually between 6.5 and 17 centimeters (about 2.5 to 6.7 inches) long. They have a rounded shape at the bottom and are tough and leathery. The edges of the leaves have tiny teeth.
Its flowers grow in long clusters, up to 17 centimeters (about 6.7 inches) long. Each flower has tiny sepals, which are like small leaves that protect the bud. The petals are very small, only about 3 millimeters (0.12 inches) long.
After the flowers, the tree grows fruits. These fruits are black and round, like small berries. They can be up to 1.9 centimeters (about 0.75 inches) wide.
Different Names for the Andean Cherry
People in different places have different names for the Prunus huantensis. These names often come from local languages.
- In central Peru, it's called inca-inca.
- In northern Peru, especially in Pataz Province, it's known as pipe.
- In southern Colombia, you might hear it called pandala or pundé.
- In Ecuador, it has several names like sacha capulí, capulí, laurel, or canelón.
Where Does the Andean Cherry Live?
The Prunus huantensis tree loves to live in mountain forests. It grows at very high places, usually between 2,500 and 3,500 meters (about 8,200 to 11,500 feet) above sea level. That's higher than many clouds! You can find these trees all the way from southern Colombia down to central Peru. They are an important part of the unique ecosystems in the Andes.
See also
- In Spanish: Prunus huantensis para niños
