SafePlants

Chorizanthe parryi: The San Bernardino Spineflower

The San Bernardino spineflower (Chorizanthe parryi) is a fascinating plant belonging to the spineflower genus, found in both western North America and South America.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is described as "abrasive-looking," suggesting the presence of potentially irritating textures.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chorizanthe parryi S. Watson
• Common Names: San Bernardino spineflower, Parry's spineflower, English spineflower
• Family: Polygonaceae (Buckwheat family)
• Synonyms: Based on the provided information, various ranks may exist such as Chorizanthe parryi S. Watson var. parryi.

Distribution and Habitat

• The San Bernardino spineflower is historically found in alluvial systems on the coastal side of the transverse range, including Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties.
• It thrives in desert and creosote bush scrub habitats up to 4000 feet, particularly in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto areas.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Mojave National Preserve, San Bernardino County, and along the Santa Ana River in southwestern San Bernardino County, California.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a forb/herb, classified as an annual plant.
• The plant is described as "tiny" and "abrasive-looking."

Ecological Role

• The text mentions the San Bernardino spineflower in the context of threatened and endangered species, suggesting a conservation concern.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant's habitat overlaps with that of the California gnatcatcher.
• It is found in riparian habitats alongside species like Obispo sedge (Carex obispoensis) and Brewer's spineflower (Chorizanthe breweri).

Related Species

• Other spineflower species mentioned include:
  • Palmer's spineflower (Chorizanthe palmeri)
  • San Benito spineflower
  • Twolobe spineflower
  • San Francisco spineflower (Chorizanthe diffusa and Chorizanthe cuspidata cuspidata)
  • Devil's spineflower/Rigid spineflower (Chorizanthe rigida)
  • Slender-horned spineflower (Dodecahema leptoceras)
  • Long-spined spineflower (Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina)
  • San Luis Obispo spineflower (Chorizanthe breweri)
  • Narrowleaf spineflower (Chorizanthe angustifolia)
  • Knotweed spineflower (Chorizanthe polygonoides)

Further Information

• Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chorizanthe parryi.
• Plant database for San Bernardino spineflower Natives Polygonaceae.
• Garden Guides: Offers plant information, identification, uses, and gardening advice.