South Texas ambrosia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South Texas ambrosia |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ambrosia
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| Species: |
cheiranthifolia
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The Ambrosia cheiranthifolia, also called South Texas ambrosia or Rio Grande ragweed, is a very rare flowering plant. It grows naturally along the coast of South Texas in the United States. It is also found in the Mexican states of Tamaulipas and Coahuila. This plant is a federally listed endangered species in the United States. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever.
Contents
About the South Texas Ambrosia
The South Texas ambrosia is a type of plant that grows from underground stems called rhizomes. It is a perennial herb, meaning it lives for more than two years. It can grow up to about 40 centimeters (about 16 inches) tall.
What the Plant Looks Like
This plant often grows in thick patches. Many plants in a patch can be clones, meaning they are genetically identical. They are connected by one underground rhizome. The stems and leaves of the plant are a silvery-green color. They are covered with rough, gray hairs.
The leaves are shaped like oblongs, which means they are longer than they are wide. They are usually 3 to 7 centimeters long. On the lower part of the plant, the leaves grow opposite each other. Higher up on the stems, they grow in an alternating pattern.
How It Flowers
The plant has small flowers that grow in clusters. Some flower heads have only male parts (staminate). These are found in groups. Other flower heads have only female parts (pistillate). These are usually found alone in the leaf axils, which are where the leaves join the stem.
Where It Lives
The South Texas ambrosia grows in certain types of natural areas. These include coastal prairies, grasslands, and areas with mesquite shrubs. These are its native habitats.
Why It Is Endangered
This plant has become very rare. One main reason is that its natural home has been cleared away. People have removed these areas for building and other development. Also, some open areas where it used to grow have been taken over by plants that are not native to the region. One example is buffelgrass (Cenchrus ciliaris). These non-native grasses can outcompete the ambrosia.
Today, there are only about 20 groups of these plants left. It is not known if the plant still exists in Mexico.
Other Rare Plants Nearby
Sometimes, the South Texas ambrosia grows near another endangered plant. This plant is called slender rush-pea (Hoffmannseggia tenella).
