Western leatherwood facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Western leatherwood |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Dirca
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| Species: |
occidentalis
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The western leatherwood (Dirca occidentalis) is a special type of plant. It is a shrub that loses its leaves every year. This plant is quite rare.
It is found only in a small area of California. This area is called the San Francisco Bay Area. When a plant or animal lives only in one specific place, it is called endemic.
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About the Western Leatherwood Plant
The western leatherwood is a shrub. This means it is a woody plant, but it is smaller than a tree. It has many branches that grow from the ground.
What the Western Leatherwood Looks Like
The leaves of the western leatherwood are small. They are usually about three to seven centimeters long. That's about the length of your finger!
Before the leaves even appear, bright yellow flowers pop out. These pretty flowers are one of the first signs of spring for this plant.
Where the Western Leatherwood Grows
This shrub likes to grow in specific places. It prefers slopes that are moist. It also likes areas that are shaded. You might find it under taller trees.
It is a very unique plant. Its closest relative is called Dirca palustris. That plant lives far away, in the eastern part of North America.
Images for kids
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Western leatherwood in flower at the Arnold Arboretum
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A close-up of a western leatherwood flower
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More western leatherwood flowers
