Author: Hannah Ko
-
Sporobolus heterolepis
Common Names: Phonetic Spelling: spoh-ROH-boh-lus het-er-oh-LEE-pis Description: Distribution/Location: Native to the prairies of central North America, thriving in well-drained soils. Environmental Benefits: Excellent for erosion control, drought-resistant, and supports prairie ecosystems. It is also often seen in urban areas, as decoration and Fun Fact: Prairie Dropseed was used by Native Americans to make flour from…
-
Eriophorum vaginatum
Common Names: Phonetic Spelling: air-ee-oh-FOR-um vaj-ih-NAY-tum Description: Eriophorum vaginatum is a perennial herbaceous plant that forms dense clumps, or tussocks, typically growing 30 to 70 centimeters (12 to 28 inches) tall. It is recognized for its distinctive white, fluffy, cotton-like flower heads. The leaves are narrow, grass-like, and grow primarily from the base of the…
-
Plumbago auriculata
Common Names: Blue Plumbago, Cape Plumbago, Sky Flower Phonetic Spelling: PLUM-buh-go aw-rik-yoo-LAY-tuh Description: The Plumbago auriculata is a semi-evergreen shrub that can grow 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet) tall and wide. It has a sprawling, spreading habit with woody stems and branches. The leaves are oval to heart-shaped, bright green, and 5…
-
Pinus contorta
Common Names: Lodgepole Pine, Shore Pine, Twisted Pine Phonetic Spelling: PIE-nus kon-TOR-tuh Description: Pinus contorta is a versatile evergreen conifer that varies significantly in size and form depending on the subspecies and habitat. It can range from a small, shrubby tree 5 meters (16 feet) tall in coastal regions (subspecies contorta), to a tall, straight…
-
Puya raimondii
Puya raimondii Common Names: Phonetic Spelling: POO-yah ray-mon-DEE-eye Description: Distribution/Location: Environmental Concerns: Fun Fact: Puya raimondii only blooms once in its lifetime, which can take up to 100 years! This rare and spectacular event has earned it the nickname “Queen of the Andes.”