What Does a Rare Plant Look Like?

When you hear the phrase "rare plant", what comes to mind? Do you imagine a colorful plant? Is it tiny, really big, or somewhere in between?

Rare plants come in all shapes and sizes; not only that, but they come from all over the world! Rare plants aren't just colorful, exotic species. We have many rare plants here in New Jersey. The plant we're focusing on today is called Pickering's morning glory. This plant has a star-shaped, delicate, white, flower and it grows exclusively in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey.

This video identifies the key threats to PMG, their preferred habitat, and what steps are being taken to ensure the survival of this unassuming, but rare species. Learning more about rare species is the first step to protecting it and educating the public about preserving plant diversity in your state.

Related resources

• We worked with the New Jersey Conservation Foundation to grow and provide a safe habitat for Pickering's morning glory. See what this organization has to say about this rare flower.
• Where else does Pickering's morning glory grow? Check out the United States Department of Agriculture's plant database, which includes the known locations of this species.
• The Southern NJ Watershed Association, CU Maurice River, has a handy write-up on the PMG that offers at-a-glance information.