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pygmy pussypaws
Scientific Name: Cistanthe pygmaea
Family: Portulacaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Cistanthe pygmaea: Pygmy Pussypaws
Cistanthe pygmaea, commonly known as pygmy pussypaws, is an annual forb/herb in the genus Cistanthe. This diminutive plant is notable for its limited distribution and unique botanical characteristics.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- Based on available information, Pygmy Pussypaws has been rated as unsafe for both children and pets (dogs and cats). However, further research is needed to substantiate any toxicity claims.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cistanthe pygmaea (Parish ex Rydb.) Hershkovitz
- Common Name: Pygmy pussypaws
- Family: Montiaceae (Miner's Lettuce Family)
- Synonyms:
- Calyptridium pygmaeum Parish ex Rydb.
Distribution and Habitat
- Cistanthe pygmaea is endemic to California.
- It has been reported from Riverside, San Bernardino, and Inyo counties in California.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cistanthe pygmaea is described as an annual herb or forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).
Ecological Role
- Pygmy pussypaws has a California Rare Plant Rank of 1B.2, indicating that it is considered rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere, and is fairly threatened within its range.
Related Species
- Other Cistanthe species include:
- Cistanthe umbellata (Mt. Hood pussypaws)
- Cistanthe parryi (Parry's Pussypaws)
- Cistanthe pulchella (Mariposa pussypaws)
- Cistanthe quadripetala
- Cistanthe rosea
- Other Calyptridium species include:
- Calyptridium monandrum (One Seeded Pussypaws)
- Calyptridium monospermum (One Seeded Pussypaws)
Further Information
- Information on Cistanthe pygmaea can be found in the Encyclopedia of Life.
- The California Native Plant Society may have additional resources.