Pyrola facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pyrola |
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| Pyrola asarifolia | |
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Pyroloideae
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Pyrola
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About 30 species, including: |
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Pyrola, often called wintergreens, are small plants. They belong to the heath family, which is known as Ericaceae. These plants are part of a special group within that family called Pyroloideae. Long ago, this group was even thought to be its own family, called Pyrolaceae.
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What Are Wintergreens?
Wintergreens are a type of flowering plant. They are known for keeping their green leaves all year round, even in winter. This is how they got their common name, "wintergreen." There are about 30 different kinds of Pyrola plants.
Where Do They Grow?
These plants like cool, shady places. You can often find them growing in forests. They prefer soil that is a bit acidic and rich in organic matter. Wintergreens grow in many parts of the world. They are found in Europe, North America, and temperate parts of Asia. They often grow under trees like pines and firs.
What Do They Look Like?
Wintergreens are usually small plants. They don't grow very tall, often staying close to the ground. Their leaves are a key feature.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of Pyrola plants are often shiny and dark green. They usually grow in a cluster at the base of the plant. The shape of the leaves can vary between different species. Some have round leaves, while others have more oval ones.
Wintergreens produce delicate flowers. These flowers often grow on a tall stalk that rises from the center of the plant. The flowers can be white, pink, or greenish. They usually hang downwards, like little bells. Each flower has five petals. After the flowers bloom, they produce small seed capsules.
How Do They Reproduce?
Pyrola plants reproduce using seeds. Their flowers are pollinated by insects, like bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into small fruits. These fruits contain many tiny seeds. When the seeds are ready, they are released and can grow into new plants. Wintergreens can also spread slowly through their roots.
See Also
In Spanish: Pyrola para niños
Images for kids
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Pyrola asarifolia is a type of wintergreen.
