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Species of plant in the genus Kniphofia From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Kniphofia umbrina, called the Eswati poker, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Kniphofia.[2] The species is native to an area near Forbes Reef in Eswatini, just to the north of Mbabane.[1]
Kniphofia umbrina | |
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Kniphofia umbrina inflorescence, Hhohho Region, Eswatini. | |
Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Clade: | Tracheophytes |
Clade: | Angiosperms |
Clade: | Monocots |
Order: | Asparagales |
Family: | Asphodelaceae |
Subfamily: | Asphodeloideae |
Genus: | Kniphofia |
Species: | K. umbrina |
Binomial name | |
Kniphofia umbrina | |
Plants are herbaceous perennials which may grow up to 1.8 metres (5.9 ft) tall. Stems emerge from a thick rhizome, with 6-8 leaves per stem.[1] Flowers are brown, slightly scented, and form a raceme. It is similar in characteristics to Kniphofia typhoides.[3]
The species is native to sourveld, rocky grassland in a temperate climate.[1] Soils in the area are acidic, high in clay and organic matter, and serpentiferous.[4] Their observed distribution covers approximately 40 square kilometres (15 sq mi). The habitat falls on Swazi Nation Land, as well as on the Hawane Nature Reserve.[5]
The species was first listed by the IUCN as vulnerable in 1978 after a detailed survey. There were between 3,000 and 4,000 estimated individuals. The population was initially threatened by maize cultivation and road construction.[1] Conservation measures were undertaken, including translocating individuals into Malolotja Nature Reserve and collecting seeds.[5] The population of 1,900 transplants eventually went extinct.[4]
Between 1978 and 1985, the population declined 92%, down to only 357 known plants. This was attributed to increased pressure by grazing, agriculture, and the construction of a dam. In 2001, the species was reassessed as critically endangered.[4]
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