Sierra milkwort facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sierra milkwort |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Rhinotropis
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| Species: |
cornuta
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The Sierra milkwort (Rhinotropis cornuta), also known as Polygala cornuta, is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the milkwort family. This plant grows naturally in many mountain areas of California and northern Baja California. You can find it in places like chaparral and forests.
Contents
What is Sierra Milkwort?
The Sierra milkwort is a rhizomatous perennial herb or a small shrub. This means it can live for many years and spreads using underground stems called rhizomes. It can grow quite tall, sometimes over 2 meters (about 6.5 feet) high. It can grow straight up or spread out along the ground.
Leaves and Stems
The leaves of the Sierra milkwort are long and thin, or shaped like a spear. They can be up to 6.5 centimeters (about 2.5 inches) long. The leaves are spaced out along the plant's branches.
Flowers and Fruit
The plant's flowers grow in a short cluster. Their colors can be greenish-white, yellowish-white, or even pink. Each flower has two parts that look like wings, which are actually sepals. The main petal is shaped like a boat and has a short, pointed tip. After the flowers, the plant produces a brownish, flat fruit. This fruit is a capsule that holds the seeds.
Where Does Sierra Milkwort Grow?
This plant is native to specific regions. It thrives in the mountain ranges of California, USA. It also grows in the northern parts of Baja California, Mexico. These areas have the right kind of soil and climate for the Sierra milkwort to grow well. It is often found in its natural habitat, such as dry chaparral areas and different types of forests.
