Horizon：Nature's local treasures(组图)

发布 : 2025-9-17  来源 : 明报新闻网 用微信扫描二维码，分享至好友和朋友圈

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The United States Joshua tree (choness@iStockphoto.com)



South Africa King protea (Ary6@iStockphoto.com)



Madagascar Traveller's palm (ViniSouza128@iStockphoto.com)


【明报专讯】Endemic plants are nature's local treasures, found only in specific places around the world. These unique species have adapted perfectly to their homes and often cannot be found anywhere else. Below are some remarkable examples that show how diverse and amazing endemic plants can be.

The United States Joshua tree

The Joshua tree is a unique plant found only in the deserts of the southwestern United States. It was named by early settlers who thought its shape looked like Joshua from the Bible, reaching his arms upward in prayer.With its tall trunk and spiky green branches, the Joshua tree stands out in dry desert landscapes. Joshua Tree National Park in California protects these plants. These trees rely on moths (飞蛾) for pollination (授粉) and can live for hundreds of years.

South Africa King protea

The king protea is a large flowering plant endemic to South Africa. It is known for having one of the largest flower heads in the world, often resembling a crown. Its bold pink petals and unique appearance make it the national flower of South Africa. King proteas attract birds and insects for pollination and can survive wildfires, as their thick underground stems help them regrow afterward.

Madagascar Traveller's palm

The traveller's palm is a distinctive fan-shaped plant native to Madagascar, an African country. The origin of its name is uncertain, but one common belief is that travellers once relied on the large leaves to collect rainwater for drinking. It is also believed that travellers used the plant as a natural compass because its leaves tend to grow east-west.

■Gear up

1. How did the Joshua tree get its name?

A. It grows in Joshua Tree National Park.

B. Settlers believed it looked like a man from the Bible.

C. It was mentioned in the Bible.

(Answer on next text)

■Glossary

spiky (adj) 带刺的

stand out (phr v) 显眼

wildfire (n) 山火

compass (n) 指南针

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[Smarties' Power English 第446期]