SafePlants

Chorizanthe rigida: Devil's Spineflower

Chorizanthe rigida, commonly known as Devil's Spineflower, is an annual plant belonging to the Polygonaceae family. Other common names include Rigid Spineflower, Spiny-herb, and Rigid Spiny-herb.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is described as "armed" with long, sharp bracts subtending the flower clusters.
• The plant possesses stout spines.

Considerations for Children

• This plant is described as "armed" with long, sharp bracts subtending the flower clusters.
• The plant possesses stout spines.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chorizanthe rigida (Torr.) Torr. & A. Gray
• Family: Polygonaceae (Smartweed-Buckwheat Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Acanthogonum rigidum Torr.

Distribution and Habitat

• Chorizanthe rigida is found in western North America and South America.
• It is specifically mentioned as growing in Death Valley National Park, Inyo Co., California.
• It also grows in bajadas.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a small, annual forb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).
• It has broad basal leaves on long petioles.
• The flowers are yellow.
• The plant is armed with stout spines.

Ecological Role

• The spines protect the seeds from seed eaters and the whole plant from chewing.

Resources and Further Information

• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for garden tips and ideas.
• Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chorizanthe rigida.
• CalPhotos offers photos of Chorizanthe rigida.