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pussypaws

Scientific Name: Cistanthe

Family: Portulacaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Pussypaws (Cistanthe and Calyptridium species)

The term "Pussypaws" refers to plants within the genus Cistanthe, a group of small, succulent flowering plants. Several species are known by this common name, including those formerly classified under the genus Calyptridium.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some species, like Mount Hood Pussypaws, are small, potentially posing a choking hazard for small pets if ingested.
  • The plant's growth habit and small parts may make it attractive to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Similar to pets, small parts of the plant can represent a choking hazard.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Cistanthe
  • Family: Montiaceae (Purslane or Montia Family)
  • Examples:
    • Cistanthe umbellata (formerly Calyptridium umbellatum): Mount Hood Pussypaws
    • Calyptridium monospermum (formerly Cistanthe monosperma): One-Seeded Pussypaws
    • Calyptridium parryi var. nevadense: Nevada Pussypaws
    • Cisthante monandrum: Common Pussypaws
  • Synonyms: Spraguea umbellata (for Mount Hood Pussypaws)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Pussypaws are native to western North America.
  • They are found in various regions, including:
    • California (northern, southern, and central)
    • Yosemite National Park
    • Santa Cruz Mountains
    • Nevada
    • Mount Rainier National Park
    • Cascade Mountains
  • They typically grow on dry, gravelly slopes and in open areas, including coniferous forests.
  • They can be found at various elevations, such as 7100 feet on Mount Rainier and around 4800 feet in other locations.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Pussypaws are small, succulent flowering plants.
  • They often have brightly colored flowers.
  • The flowers form rose-pink to white, pussy paw-like terminal clusters.
  • They bloom from May to August.
  • The leaves are flat, spatula-shaped, and form basal clusters.
  • Plants typically reach a height of 2 to 10 inches.

Quirky Facts

  • The common name "Pussypaws" comes from the pink clusters of densely packed flowers on prostrate stems that resemble upturned pads of cats' feet.