SafePlants

Cistanthe umbellata - Mt. Hood Pussypaws

Cistanthe umbellata, formerly known as Calyptridium umbellatum, is a flowering plant belonging to the purslane family. It is widely recognized by its common name, Mount Hood pussypaws.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant forms relatively heavy "pussy paws" in a ring around the plant.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cistanthe umbellata (Torr.) Hershk.
• Common Name: Mount Hood pussypaws
• Family: Portulacaceae (Purslane family)
• Genus: Cistanthe Spach
• Synonyms: Calyptridium umbellatum (Torr.) Greene, Spraguea umbellata
• Subspecies/Varieties: Cistanthe umbellata var. umbellata, Cistanthe umbellata var. caudicifera

Distribution and Habitat

Cistanthe umbellata is found in regions such as Mt. Hood, Yosemite National Park, the Cascades, and Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument. It often grows on volcanic gravel and can be found in alpine environments, including the Interior Mountain Heather Alpine zone.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a mat-forming perennial that grows from a branched crown.
• Stems often lie on the ground.
• The dark green leaves resemble a spoon shape and grow in clustered basal rosettes.
• The "pussy paws" form a ring around the leaf rosette.

Interactions with Other Organisms

Cistanthe umbellata is known to associate with pussytoes (Antennaria sp.) in certain habitats.

Quirky Facts

• The plant is described as "fuzzy" and "pink" in some observations.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.
• Discover Life: Page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cistanthe umbellata.