| Colobanthus quitensis | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Core eudicots |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Colobanthus |
| Species: | C. quitensis |
| Binomial name | |
| Colobanthus quitensis (Kunth) Bartl. |
|
Colobanthus quitensis (Antarctic pearlwort) is one of the two flowering plants found in the Antarctic region. It occurs on the continental edge, as well as the South Orkney Islands and the South Shetland Islands. It has white flowers and grows about 5 cm (two inches) tall, with a cushion-like growth habit that gives it a moss-like appearance.
Due to a recent warming trend, more seeds are germinating, creating a large number of seedlings and plants. Reports indicate a fivefold increase in these plants, which have extended their ranges southward and cover more extensive areas, wherever found. This species extends south of 56° south latitude. Deschampsia antarctica (Antarctic hairgrass) is the only other native flowering plant in the region.[1]
Botanical synonyms include Sagina quitensis Humboldt, Bonpland & Kunth.