Story: Alpine plants

Black-stemmed willowherb

Black-stemmed willowherb

Willowherbs like this black-stemmed plant (Epilobium melanocaulon) are found in many temperate regions of the world. They produce light seeds that are easily spread by the wind. The 15 alpine species of willowherb found in New Zealand are thought to have evolved from a common ancestor that was blown to the country some time in the last few million years.

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Photograph by Christina Troup

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How to cite this page:

Hugh Wilson, 'Alpine plants - New Zealand’s alpine flora and its origins', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/11046/black-stemmed-willowherb (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Hugh Wilson, published 24 Sep 2007