Prunus polytricha facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Prunus polytricha |
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The Prunus polytricha, also known as the hairy cherry or hairy wild cherry, is a special type of cherry tree. Its name comes from the Chinese words "多毛樱桃" (duō máo yīng táo), which mean "hairy cherry." This unique tree grows naturally in certain parts of China, often found high up in mountains and along forest edges.
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Discovering the Hairy Cherry Tree
The hairy cherry tree is a fascinating plant that plays an important role in its natural home. It was first officially described by a scientist named Koehne. This tree is part of the Prunus family, which includes many other well-known fruits like peaches, plums, and almonds, as well as other types of cherries.
Where Does the Hairy Cherry Live?
This cherry tree is native to several provinces in China. You can find it growing in places like Gansu, Guizhou, Henan, Hubei, Shaanxi, and Sichuan. It prefers to live in areas that are quite high up, usually between 1,100 and 3,300 meters (about 3,600 to 10,800 feet) above sea level. Imagine climbing a tall mountain; that's where this tree likes to be!
Preferred Growing Spots
The hairy cherry tree thrives in what are called "mesic" habitats. This means it likes places that have a balanced amount of moisture, not too wet and not too dry. It often grows on hills and at the edges of forests. You might also spot it in very old oak forests or sometimes even planted by people in "windbreaks." Windbreaks are rows of trees planted to protect fields or homes from strong winds.
What Does the Hairy Cherry Look Like?
The Prunus polytricha can be either a large shrub or a small tree. It typically grows to be about 2 to 12 meters (about 6.5 to 39 feet) tall. That's roughly the height of a one-story house to a four-story building! Its size makes it a noticeable part of the forest landscape where it grows.
Who Eats the Hairy Cherry?
The hairy cherry tree is an important food source for some animals. One special animal that enjoys parts of this tree is the golden snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana). These amazing monkeys eat the buds, leaves, and seeds of the Prunus polytricha. This shows how different living things in an ecosystem depend on each other for survival.
