Coulter's globemallow facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Coulter's globemallow
Scientific classification
Genus:	Sphaeralcea
Species:	coulteri

Sphaeralcea coulteri, also known as Coulter's globemallow, is a beautiful flowering plant. It belongs to the mallow family, which includes many well-known plants like cotton and hibiscus. This plant is native to the Sonoran Desert, a hot and dry region.

You can find Coulter's globemallow growing naturally from northern Mexico all the way up into California and Arizona in the United States. It's an annual plant, meaning it completes its entire life cycle, from seed to flower to seed, within one year.

What Does Coulter's Globemallow Look Like?

Coulter's globemallow is a relatively small plant. It has slender, hairy stems that can either spread out along the ground or grow upright. These stems can reach a height of about 1.5 meters, which is roughly the height of a tall person.

Leaves and Flowers

The leaves of this plant are a thin, gray-green color. They are usually wide and short, often shaped like a heart or a triangle. Each leaf can be up to about 5 centimeters long. Along the edges, the leaves have a few wide lobes, which might also have smaller teeth or lobes.

The plant produces clusters of bright, orange flowers. Each flower has five petals that are shaped like a wedge. These petals are about one centimeter long. In the center of the flowers, you'll see yellow anthers, which are parts of the flower that produce pollen.

Where Does This Plant Grow?

Coulter's globemallow thrives in the harsh conditions of the Sonoran Desert. This desert is known for its extreme temperatures and very little rainfall. Plants that grow here, like the globemallow, are specially adapted to survive in such environments.

Desert Habitat

The Sonoran Desert covers parts of California, Arizona, and Mexico. It's home to many unique plants and animals. Coulter's globemallow is an important part of this desert ecosystem. It adds a splash of orange color to the landscape when it blooms.