Feather River stonecrop facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Feather River stonecrop |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Sedum
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| Species: |
albomarginatum
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The Sedum albomarginatum, also known as the Feather River stonecrop, is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family, which includes many succulent plants. This special plant only grows in California, near the Feather River in Plumas and Butte Counties.
You can find it on steep cliffs and mountain slopes. It loves to grow in rocky soil called serpentine substrate. This type of soil is unique and helps certain plants, like the Feather River stonecrop, thrive.
What Does It Look Like?
The Feather River stonecrop is a small plant that lives for many years. It's a succulent plant, which means its leaves are thick and fleshy. They store water, helping the plant survive in dry places.
The plant forms a group of leaves at its base, like a small rose, called a rosette. These rosettes are only a few centimeters wide. The leaves can grow up to 7 centimeters long. They are widest near the tip, which is often rounded or slightly notched.
When the plant sends up flowering shoots, these have smaller, more oval-shaped leaves. All the leaves are smooth, waxy, and have a pretty blue-green color. Young leaves often have unique white edges. This white edge comes from a thick layer of wax, but it wears off as the leaves get older.
Its Flowers
When the Feather River stonecrop blooms, it produces many flowers. These flowers grow in a wide, spreading cluster called an inflorescence. Each flower has light yellow petals that can be up to a centimeter long.
Why Is It Rare?
The Feather River stonecrop is a rare plant, and it faces some challenges. Because it grows on steep slopes, erosion can be a problem. This is when soil and rocks are washed away, which can harm the plants.
Other threats include human activities like mining and new building projects. These activities can disturb the plant's natural home. Protecting these special areas helps the Feather River stonecrop survive and thrive.
