Retama raetam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Retama raetam |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| In habitat | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Synonyms | |
|
Retama raetam, also known as the White Broom, is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the Fabaceae family, which includes peas and beans. This plant is native to many dry regions. You can find it in northern Africa, from the Western Sahara to Sudan. It also grows in Sicily, Israel, the Sinai Peninsula, the Palestine region, and Saudi Arabia. It has also spread to many other parts of the world.
-
Flowers with pollinating bee, Osmia gracilicornis
Contents
What is Retama raetam?
The White Broom is a shrub that can grow quite tall. It often has many thin, green branches. These branches help the plant survive in dry places. Its small leaves fall off early, so the branches do most of the work.
Where Does It Grow?
This plant loves sunny, dry areas. It is very common in deserts and semi-desert regions. It can grow in sandy soils and rocky places. Its strong roots help it find water deep underground. This makes it very tough and able to live where other plants cannot.
How It Looks
The White Broom has many small, white flowers. These flowers often grow in clusters. They have a sweet smell that attracts insects. After the flowers, small pods grow. These pods hold the seeds of the plant.
Naming the White Broom
The scientific name for this plant is Retama raetam. It was first described in 1775 by a scientist named Peter Forsskål. He first called it Genista raetam.
The Name's History
The name "raetam" comes from the Hebrew word "Rotem." This name is found in the Hebrew Bible. In the Bible, it is often translated as "Broom tree." So, the plant has a very old and interesting name. Later, two other scientists, Philip Barker-Webb and Sabin Berthelot, moved it to the Retama group of plants. This happened around 1842.
Images for kids
-
In habitat
See also
- Desert plant
- Shrub
- In Spanish: Retama raetam para niños
