Portulaca sclerocarpa

Portulaca sclerocarpa

Imperiled  (NatureServe)
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
(unranked): Angiosperms
(unranked): Eudicots
(unranked): Core eudicots
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Portulacaceae
Genus: Portulaca
Species: P. sclerocarpa
Binomial name
Portulaca sclerocarpa
A.Gray

Portulaca sclerocarpa is a rare species of flowering plant in the purslane family known by the common names 'ihi makole and po`e. It is endemic to Hawaii, where it is known only from the island of Hawaii and an islet off of Lanai. Ten occurrences exist for a total of over 1000 individuals. It is a federally listed endangered species of the United States.[1]

This is a perennial herb with short, woody branches growing up to about 20 centimeters long. It produces white, pink, or bicolored flowers. The plant grows on cinders and lava substrates.[1]

Threats to this rare species include introduced ungulates and plants, fires, and volcanic activity.[1]

References

  1. 1 2 3 Portulaca sclerocarpa. The Nature Conservancy.


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