Symphyotrichum rhiannon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rhiannon's aster |
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| Genus: |
Symphyotrichum
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| Species: |
rhiannon
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Symphyotrichum rhiannon is a special kind of flowering plant called Rhiannon's aster. It grows only in one specific place in western North Carolina. This plant is a perennial herb, meaning it lives for many years and has soft stems, not woody ones. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies and sunflowers.
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About Rhiannon's Aster
How it Got its Name
The plant Symphyotrichum rhiannon was officially named in 2004 by two scientists, Alan Stuart Weakley and Thomas E. Govus.
They named it after Rhiannon Weakley, who was Alan Weakley's young daughter. During a trip in 2003, Rhiannon needed a snack and a nap. While the group rested, they noticed this unique aster growing all around them. This happy accident helped them discover and name the new plant! The name also honors an ancient Welsh goddess figure named Rhiannon.
Where Rhiannon's Aster Lives
This special plant grows only in a place called Buck Creek Serpentine Barrens. This area is in Clay County, North Carolina, inside the Nantahala National Forest.
Protecting Rhiannon's Aster
NatureServe, an organization that tracks plants and animals, lists Rhiannon's aster as "Critically imperiled (G1)". This means it is in great danger of disappearing forever. There are very few of these plants left in the world.
