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San Diego spineflower

Scientific Name: Chorizanthe orcuttiana

Family: Polygonaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names: CA (Orcutt's spineflower)

       

San Diego Spineflower (Chorizanthe orcuttiana)

The San Diego spineflower, scientifically known as Chorizanthe orcuttiana, is a rare and diminutive annual herb native to a very specific region of California.

Common Names

  • San Diego Spineflower
  • Orcutt's Spineflower

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Chorizanthe orcuttiana Parry
  • Family: Polygonaceae (Buckwheat Family)
  • Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

  • Endemic to San Diego County, California.
  • Historically, also found from the San Fernando Valley to Orange County.

Morphology and Growth

  • Annual herb, typically quite small (1-15 cm). A hand lens may be needed to view the plant properly.
  • Characterized by small, clustered flowers.

Quirky Facts

  • The San Diego spineflower is so small that it may not be considered "impressive" at first glance.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Requires fertilization in the spring.

Resources and Further Information

  • Discover Life