Rare Death Valley wildflower no longer endangered

DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK, Calif. – Federal officials say a rare desert wildflower that only grows in Death Valley National Park is no longer endangered.

The U.S. Department of the Interior says the Eureka Valley evening primrose is no longer in need of protection.

The large flower with white petals and green leaves can be spotted on the sandy desert floor of the Eureka Valley area on the California side of the enormous park.

The primrose has adapted to life in one of the hottest places on Earth by blooming at night and taking advantage of pollinators such as moths that avoid the heat of day.

Officials said last week that the flower’s recovery stems from restricting recreation and educating visitors under the Wilderness Act.