Yellowstone's hidden secret: Rare plant only grows in park
POWELL, Wyo. — Those seeking to see a living specimen of Yellowstone National Park's most rare species, Yellowstone sand verbena, are sworn to secrecy. Its location is closely guarded, and those who visit are asked not to discuss its exact whereabouts.
The little-known, delicate flowering plant grows on a sandy patch of land, less than 1.5 acres, on the shores of Yellowstone Lake. It's been theorized that what makes the nation's premiere park popular — its volcanic nature — is why the Yellowstone sand verbena (Abronia ammophila) grows only within the park's boundaries. Most similar species live in much warmer environs in southern states and Mexico.
It's one of only three endemic plants in Yellowstone — plants that only grow in the park and nowhere else.
Past records of the plant show its decline. The sand verbena is in danger of extinction due to trampling — human traffic — and has been extirpated from other areas of the park that see foot traffic, such as Fishing Bridge. In other words, ironically, this important link in the Yellowstone ecosystem is being stepped on by those flocking to areas to enjoy the diversity of species in its unique habitat.
Read more: http://bismarcktribune.com/ap/yellowstone-s-hidden-secret-rare-plant-only-grows-in-park/article_4a2d2118-8c26-57b2-8b5d-6a17be82ab94.html
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