SafePlants

Lanceleaf Springbeauty (Claytonia lanceolata)

Claytonia lanceolata, commonly known as lanceleaf springbeauty or western springbeauty, is a captivating wildflower belonging to the purslane family (Montiaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a small perennial, growing up to 8 inches tall and may have small parts that could be a potential choking hazard.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Claytonia lanceolata Pall. ex Pursh
• Common Names: Lanceleaf Springbeauty, Western Springbeauty, Spring beauty, Indian
• Family: Montiaceae (Purslane family)
• Synonyms: Claytonia lancelolata (misspelling)
• Taxonomic Rank: Species; there is mention of varieties such as Claytonia lanceolata var. idahoensis and Claytonia lanceolata var. lanceolata

Distribution and Habitat

• Claytonia lanceolata is found in the western and southwestern USA.
• It thrives in moist habitats, such as streambanks in alpine tundra and semi-arid montane environments.
• Specific locations include areas along the Lolo Trail in Idaho and California.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Claytonia lanceolata is a perennial herbaceous plant, growing 2 to 6 inches tall.
• It is an erect plant with one to a few lance-shaped leaves.
• The flowers occur singly or in clusters of 3 to 20 and have five petals.
• Flower colors range from white to pink, and occasionally orange or yellow, often with pink veins and anthers.
• The plant flowers in March, and the seeds ripen in May.

Additional Information

• Further information can be found at the USDA Plants Database: http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=clla2
• Discover Life offers information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Claytonia lanceolata: Discover Life.