Sophora longicarinata facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sophora longicarinata |
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| Limestone kowhai foliage | |
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S. longicarinata
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| Sophora longicarinata G.Simpson et J.S.Thomson
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Sophora longicarinata is a special type of tree found only in New Zealand. It's often called kowhai or limestone kowhai. This tree grows naturally in a small area. You can find it in northern Nelson and western Marlborough.
This kowhai species has quite small leaves. They are smaller than those of other similar kowhai trees. It's known for growing in areas where there is a lot of limestone.
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What is Limestone Kowhai?
The limestone kowhai is a unique plant. It's a type of tree that belongs to the pea family. Its scientific name is Sophora longicarinata. This name helps scientists around the world know exactly which plant they are talking about.
Where Does Limestone Kowhai Grow?
This kowhai tree is native to New Zealand. It likes to grow in specific places. These places are rich in limestone rock. Limestone is a type of rock formed from the shells of sea creatures. This tree thrives in these special soil conditions.
How Limestone Kowhai Was Named
Scientists first officially named this tree in 1942. For a while, it was thought to be the same as another kowhai species. That species is called Sophora microphylla. But in 2001, scientists looked at it again. They decided it was different enough to be its own species. So, it got its original name back.
Special Features of Limestone Kowhai
One interesting thing about this kowhai is its leaves. They are smaller than the leaves of many other kowhai trees. Also, unlike some other kowhai species, it doesn't have a "divaricating juvenile phase." This means its young branches don't grow in a tangled, zig-zag pattern. They grow more directly from the start.
Images for kids
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Limestone kowhai flower and seed pod closeup
