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Safe for Cats?

Safe for Reptiles?

silversword

Scientific Name: Argyroxiphium

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Haleakal? Silversword (Argyroxiphium sandwicense subsp. macrocephalum)

The Haleakal? silversword is a striking and rare plant found exclusively in a specific habitat within the Hawaiian Islands.

Considerations for Pets

  • The Haleakal? silversword has narrow, pointed silver leaves, which could be a potential hazard for pets if ingested or if they come into contact with sensitive areas.

Considerations for Children

  • The Haleakal? silversword has narrow, pointed silver leaves, which could be a potential hazard for children if ingested or if they come into contact with sensitive areas.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Argyroxiphium sandwicense subsp. macrocephalum
  • Common Names: Haleakal? silversword
  • Part of the daisy family, Asteraceae.
  • Another subspecies is Argyroxiphium sandwicense subsp. sandwicense, the Mauna Kea silversword.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Endemic to the island of Maui and the Big Island of Hawai?i.
  • Specifically found above the 6000-foot level on Haleakal?.
  • The Mauna Kea silversword (Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. sandwicense) is found only on Mauna Kea.

Ecological Role

  • The Haleakal? silversword is endangered, and its habitat is threatened by climate change.
  • The Maunakea silversword is a member of the silversword alliance, a group of Hawaiian endemic plants believed to have evolved from a single plant ancestor.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Features silvery hairs and fleshy leaves.
  • Grows in a low-growing rosette form.
  • Consists of a rosette of narrow, pointed silver leaves.
  • Considered a giant rosette plant.