Explore Plant Diversity and Uses

What is a native plant species?

• A native plant species is one that is cultivated in gardens.

• A native plant species is one that is found only in botanical gardens.

• A native plant species is one that occurs naturally in a specific region or ecosystem.

• A native plant species is one that is imported from other countries.

Name three native plant species found in North America.

• Eastern Red Cedar, Bluebell, Prairie Grass

• Sunflower

• Cactus Flower

• Red Maple

How can you identify an invasive plant species?

• Invasive plant species can be identified by their rapid growth, high seed production, and ability to outcompete native plants.

• They are often used in traditional medicine.

• They grow slowly and require minimal water.

• They have a pleasant fragrance and attract pollinators.

List two characteristics of invasive plants.

• Dependence on specific soil types

• Slow growth rate

• 1. Rapid growth rate; 2. Ability to outcompete native species.

• Limited reproductive capacity

What impact do invasive plants have on local ecosystems?

• Invasive plants enhance biodiversity by providing new habitats.

• Invasive plants negatively impact local ecosystems by outcompeting native species, reducing biodiversity, altering soil chemistry, and disrupting food webs.

• Invasive plants improve soil quality and nutrient levels.

• Invasive plants have no significant effect on local ecosystems.

Describe the habitat where the Eastern Red Cedar typically grows.

• Dense tropical rainforests

• Wet marshlands and swamps

• Eastern Red Cedar typically grows in dry, rocky soils, open woodlands, and forest edges.

• Urban areas with heavy pollution

What role do native plants play in their ecosystems?

• Native plants have no impact on soil quality.

• Native plants are primarily decorative and serve no ecological purpose.

• Native plants play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, stabilizing soil, and maintaining ecosystem health.

• Native plants only attract pests and diseases.

Identify a common medicinal plant and its uses.

• Lavender, used for enhancing mood and relaxation.

• Ginger, used for improving digestion and reducing nausea.

• Peppermint, used for relieving headaches and improving focus.

• Aloe Vera, used for soothing skin and promoting healing.

What is the significance of biodiversity in plant habitats?

• Biodiversity reduces competition among plant species.

• Biodiversity has no impact on soil quality.

• Biodiversity enhances ecosystem stability, resilience, and productivity in plant habitats.

• Biodiversity decreases the variety of plant species in an ecosystem.

How do environmental factors influence plant distribution?

• Plant distribution is solely determined by human activity.

• Soil type has no impact on plant growth.

• Water availability is irrelevant to plant survival.

• Environmental factors influence plant distribution by affecting climate, soil, water availability, and topography.