California Wildflower Struggles as Climate Warms

A native wildflower in California and Oregon is having trouble adapting to climate change, new research shows. The mountain jewelflower grows across a wide range of environments, from hot lowlands to snowy mountain peaks. But scientists from the University of California, Davis, found that plants in higher elevations are struggling to survive both hot summers and cold winters. The study suggests that climate change is making conditions too extreme for the flower in parts of its range. Warmer temperatures dry out the soil in summer, while changes in snow cover affect winter survival. This could lead to the wildflower disappearing from some mountain areas. The findings add to growing evidence that many plant species are unable to shift their ranges quickly enough to keep up with rapid climate change. The researchers call for more protection of diverse habitats to give plants a chance to adapt. The mountain jewelflower is known for its purple blooms and is an important part of local ecosystems. Its decline could affect pollinators and other wildlife that depend on it. The study was published in a scientific journal and highlights the broader impacts of global warming on biodiversity. Scientists say that without significant efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, more species will face similar challenges.