Nototrichium divaricatum
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| Nototrichium divaricatum | |
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| Nototrichium divaricatum growing in Limahuli Garden and Preserve | |
Scientific classification 
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Nototrichium |
| Species: | N. divaricatum
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| Binomial name | |
| Nototrichium divaricatum Lorence
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Nototrichium divaricatum, also known as Na Pali rockwort or kuluʻī (Hawaiian), is a rare perennial shrub in the pigweed family, Amaranthaceae, that is endemic to the island of Kauaʻi in Hawaiʻi.[1][2] It can be found in the northwestern part of the island in dry to moist shrublands, where it grows on north-facing cliffs and ridges.
Nototrichium divaricatum are densely branching shrubs 0.3–2 meters tall, with most parts covered with silvery-white hairs.[1] Leaves are oppositely arranged, with leaf blades 3–7.5 cm long and 1–4.6 cm wide. Inflorescences bear several spikes, and are terminal and usually solitary, rarely 2 or 3 together, and compoundly branched. Each spike bears 8–30 small flowers.[3]
This species was first described in 1996. There are possibly fewer than 3,000 N. divaricatum plants in existence.
Description
[edit]This species is characterized by its bushy growth, typically reaching heights of between 0.3 and 2 meters.[1] Nototrichium divaricatum features densely hairy branches and twigs, giving them a silvery-white appearance. The leaves are arranged oppositely, and have petioles that can vary in size and shape. Each leaf measures approximately 2-7.5 cm x 0.6-4.6 cm.[4] The plant produces unique flower clusters with multiple branches, and can contain anywhere from 4 to 66 flowers.[4]
Distribution and habitat
[edit]Nototrichium divaricatum is mainly found on the north-facing cliffs and ridges of Kaua'i, particularly in the Hanalei District and Na Pali coast.[1] It thrives at elevations of 600 to 1100 meters in areas where remnants of lowland and montane mesic forests are still present.[4][5] The primary challenges facing Nototrichium divaricatum include damage and habitat loss due to the activities of feral goats, which threaten many endemic species throughout Hawai'i. Additional risks include landslides, rock falls, and the invasion of non-native plant.[4] Effective conservation strategies aimed at managing feral animal populations and controlling invasive plants are crucial for the survival of this rare species.
Human use and cultural significance
[edit]Nototrichium divaricatum has not been extensively studied for specific applications, although, when flowering it may be used as a decorative plant. It plays a role in the ecosystem and contributes to Hawai'i's cultural heritage. Native Hawaiian practices often incorporate local plants for medicinal purposes, crafting, and ceremonial uses. Preserving this endemic species contributes to ecological diversity and sustaining the cultural traditions connected to Hawai'i’s native flora.[citation needed]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d "Native Plants Hawaii - Viewing Plant : Nototrichium divaricatum". nativeplants.hawaii.edu. Retrieved 2024-10-28.
- ^ NatureServe. "Nototrichium divaricatum". NatureServe Explorer. Arlington, Virginia. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
- ^ "Find Rare Plants in Your Area". Center for Plant Conservation. Retrieved 2024-11-27.
- ^ a b c d Lorence, David H. (1996). "A New Species of Nototrichium (Amaranthaceae) from Kaua'i, Hawaiian Islands". Novon. 6 (1): 64–67. doi:10.2307/3392213. ISSN 1055-3177.
- ^ "Na Pali Rockwort / Center For Plant Conservation". Retrieved 2024-10-28.
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