Stilbocarpa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stilbocarpa |
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| Stilbocarpa polaris | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Subfamily: | Aralioideae |
| Genus: | Stilbocarpa (Hook.f.) Decne. & Planch. |
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Stilbocarpa is a special group of flowering plants. Scientists usually place it in the plant family called Araliaceae. However, some think it might be more closely related to the Apiaceae family.
There are three different types, or species, of Stilbocarpa plants. Two of these species are found only in New Zealand. This means they are endemic to New Zealand. The third species grows in New Zealand and also on Australia's subantarctic Macquarie Island.
What is Stilbocarpa?
Stilbocarpa is a genus of plants. A genus is a group of very similar living things. All plants in the Stilbocarpa genus share common features. They are known for their unique flowers.
Where Stilbocarpa Grows
These plants are found in cool, often windy places. They grow in New Zealand and on Macquarie Island. These areas are known for their wild weather. The plants are tough and can handle these conditions.
How People Used Stilbocarpa
In the past, Māori children in Aotearoa New Zealand used Stilbocarpa plants. They would make temporary flutes from the hollow stalks of "bunui." This name refers to S. lyallii and S. polaris.
Children would make these flutes while taking a break. They were often helping with "muttonbirding." This was the hard work of gathering young seabirds called muttonbirds. A Māori elder named George Te Au once said these flutes "lasted for a while, then they collapsed."
See also
