Molokini purslane (Portulaca molokiniensis)

Molokini Ihi Molokini 'Ihi 'ihi `Ihi
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Portulaca molokiniensis ('ihi): Rare Hawaiian Succulent

Endemic to the Hawaiian archipelago, Portulaca molokiniensis stands out as a remarkable and highly localized succulent species. It is federally recognized as an endangered plant, confined to specific arid microclimates within the islands.

First collected in 1913 by Charles N. Forbes, it was originally misidentified as Portulaca lutea due to morphological similarities. It was not until 1987 that Hawaii forester Bob Hobdy officially described it as a distinct botanical species.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ core eudicots
  • ∟ Superasterids
  • ∟ order Caryophyllales
  • ∟ подотряд / подпорядок Portulacineae
  • ∟ family Portulacaceae (Purslane family)
  • ∟ genus Portulaca (Purslane genus)
  • ∟ species Portulaca molokiniensis (Molokini purslane)

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Morphology

This distinct succulent is characterized by its robust structure and small yellow flowers. When propagated from seed, the plant has the notable ability to develop a prominent caudex, a swollen stem base uniquely adapted for water storage.

Its specialized morphology allows it to thrive in extremely dry environments. It typically grows in loose volcanic scree, detritus at the base of sea cliffs, and coastal sand.

Interesting facts

  • Despite the common perception of Hawaii as lush and moist, this species thrives exclusively on the leeward, rainshadow sides of the islands which are extremely dry.
  • Its natural habitat is restricted to just a few coastal sites, including Molokini Island, Puʻukoaʻe Islet, and Kamōhio Bay.
  • The plant grows directly in volcanic tuff and on steep rocky slopes at elevations ranging from 30 to 375 feet.

Geography of distribution

  • Hawaii

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

Mexican Purslane

Mexican Purslane

Portulaca mexicana

Portulaca mexicana is a low-growing succulent plant native to numerous states across Mexico. First described …

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Red-Stemmed Purslane

Red-Stemmed Purslane

Portulaca rubricaulis

An annual succulent herb characterized by distinctive reddish stems and solitary yellow flowers, found across …

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