Large Fruited Sand Verbena
Endangered Plant Species
Background
This flower is native to Texas and only grows in the savannas of East Central Texas in the counties of Freestone, Leon, and Robertson. It has stems that are up to 20 inches tall covered with sticky hairs, the flower has flowers that are pink-purple round clusters that are 4 inches across. These plants bloom from March through June, but the rosettes appear in the fall. Instead of having bees, or butterflies pollinate it, moths pollinate this plant since it only opens in the late afternoon. They have a very sweet odor that increases toward the evening. It produces on of the regions most attractive inflorescence. This plant is adapted to harsh and fragile sandy openings, such as those with deep soil infertile and low precipitation.
Why is it endangered?
It is endangered because the sandy soil areas have been cleared of native vegetation and used for pasture grasses. As well as the construction of houses and oil wells destroyed and altered ts habitat. Exotic plants have also contributed to its endangerment. All the off road cars and the over collection of this plant have driven this plant to endangerment.
Solutions
The solution to stop it from being endangered would be to stop picking these plants and conserve it in protected areas. In the Freestone, Leon, and Robertson counties there are 9 sanctuaries throughout these counties that have a wide population range.