Ridgetop naupaka facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ridgetop naupaka |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Scaevola (plant)
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| Species: |
gaudichaudii
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| Synonyms | |
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Lobelia gaudichaudii Kuntze |
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Scaevola gaudichaudii, also known as the ridgetop naupaka, is a type of shrub. It belongs to the plant family Goodeniaceae. This plant is special because it only grows in Hawaii. This means it is endemic to the Hawaiian islands.
Scientists William J. Hooker and George Arnott Walker-Arnott first described this plant in 1832. They wrote about it in a book called Botany of Captain Beechey's Voyage.... They named it gaudichaudii to honor a person named Charles Gaudichaud-Beaupré.
What Does Ridgetop Naupaka Look Like?
The ridgetop naupaka is a shrub that can grow quite tall. It reaches about 6 feet (1.8 m) in height. It can also spread out, covering an area of about 8 feet (2.4 m) wide. These plants usually live for about five years.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of this plant are small. They are usually between 1 inch (2.5 cm) and 2 inches (5.1 cm) long. The edges of the leaves have small teeth.
The ridgetop naupaka has pretty flowers. They bloom all year long. The flowers are usually yellow, but their color can change. Some might be dark yellow, brownish-yellow, or even a little pinkish. They have a light, pleasant smell. After the flowers, the plant produces small, purple fruits called drupes.
Where It Grows Best
This plant loves sunny places. It grows well in tough spots. This includes dry, windy areas with lots of sun.
