White vervain facts for kids
Quick facts for kids White vervain |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Verbena
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| Species: |
urticifolia
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The White Vervain (scientific name: Verbena urticifolia) is a type of plant known for its white flowers. It is also called Nettle-leaved Vervain because its leaves look a bit like those of a nettle plant. This plant is part of the vervain family, which includes many other interesting plants. It is considered one of the "true" vervains.
Contents
What Does White Vervain Look Like?
The White Vervain has thin, strong green stems. Its leaves grow in pairs directly opposite each other on the stem. These leaves are simple, meaning they are not divided into smaller leaflets.
The plant gets its scientific name, urticifolia, because its leaves look a lot like the leaves of a nettle plant (from the Urtica genus).
Flowers and Fruit
In the summer, the White Vervain produces many small, white flowers. These flowers grow in long, narrow clusters called spikes. It's interesting that its flowers are white, as most plants in the Verbena family usually have bluish flowers.
After the flowers bloom, the plant forms small, dark-colored fruits. Each fruit is like a tiny box, called a capsule, and it holds many thin, brown seeds inside.
Plant Texture
Most of the White Vervain plant, except for its flowers and fruits, is covered in stiff, tiny hairs or bristles. This gives the plant a slightly rough feel.
White Vervain's Plant Family
The White Vervain is related to many other vervain plants. For example, it is quite similar to other North American vervains like V. lasiostachys and V. menthifolia. It is also related to the Common Vervain found in Europe.
These plants, including the White Vervain, are known as "diploid." This means they have two sets of chromosomes in their cells. The White Vervain has a total of 14 chromosomes.
Sometimes, different types of vervain plants can mix their genes. This is called hybridization. Scientists think that the Swamp Verbena might have formed through hybridization with the White Vervain or a similar plant a long time ago. This shows how plants can evolve and create new varieties over time.
Where Does White Vervain Grow?
The White Vervain is found in many parts of North America. It grows naturally in:
- Western Canada
- Eastern Canada
- The Northeastern United States
- The Southeastern United States
- The North-Central United States
- Texas
It likes to grow in open areas, fields, and along roadsides.
See also
In Spanish: Verbena urticifolia para niños
