Science Fair Project Encyclopedia
Xeronema
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Xeronema |
Xeronema is a genus of flowering plants containing two species. It is in the family Hemerocallidaceae.
The Poor Knights lily (Xeronema callistemon) is endemic to the Poor Knights Islands and Taranga Island in the north of New Zealand. It was discovered in 1924.
The Poor Knights lily has unusual bottlebrush flower clusters that grow horizontally, like a giant red toothbrush. The flower stalks start out vertical and then take a curious turn sideways. Stunning red flowers then emerge straight up from the stalk, with bright orange pollen. The total length of the flowering portion is about 8-10 inches long, although potentially they can grow to 18 inches. It can reach a height of one metre.
Another species (Xeronema moorei) is found in New Caledonia.
References
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