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knotweed spineflower
Scientific Name: Chorizanthe polygonoides var. polygonoides
Family: Polygonaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Chorizanthe polygonoides: Knotweed Spineflower
Chorizanthe polygonoides, commonly known as Knotweed Spineflower, is a fascinating member of the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae).
Considerations for Pets
- The plant is referred to as a "spineflower," suggesting the presence of spines, which could potentially be a physical irritant.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Chorizanthe polygonoides Torr. & A. Gray
- Common Name: Knotweed Spineflower
- Family: Polygonaceae (Buckwheat family)
- Synonym: Acanthogonum polygonoides (Torrey & A. Gray) Goodman
- Varieties:
- Chorizanthe polygonoides var. polygonoides
- Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina (Goodman) Munz
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to California.
- Found in western North America and South America.
- Specific locations mentioned: Orange County, California; East side Mt. Hamilton; Garland Ranch, Palo Corona, Santa Lucia Preserve
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Described as a forb/herb, which is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
- Classified as an annual herb and perennial herb.
- Medium in size.
- In summer, it assumes a white coloring.
- Requires a few hours a day of direct sunlight.
Quirky Facts
- It is called a "spineflower" due to the presence of spines.
Ecological Role
- One source states that the knotweed spineflower (Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina) is "most problematic," though the specific issue is not stated.