SafePlants

Streambank Springbeauty (Claytonia parviflora)

Claytonia parviflora is a charming wildflower, commonly known as streambank springbeauty. This delicate plant belongs to the purslane family and adds a touch of beauty to its native habitats.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Claytonia parviflora Douglas ex Hook.
• Common Name: Streambank Springbeauty
• Family: Montiaceae (Miner's Lettuce Family), also classified under Portulacaceae (Purslane Family)
• Rank: Species
• Subspecies:
  • Claytonia parviflora ssp. parviflora
  • Claytonia parviflora ssp. grandiflora
  • Claytonia parviflora ssp. utahensis (Rydb.) John M. Mill. & K.L. Chambers
• Synonyms:
  • Claytonia perfoliata var. parviflora
  • Montia parviflora
  • Montia perfoliata var. parviflora
• Alternative Common Names: Heart Leaf Spring Beauty, Heartleaf Springbeauty, Linear-leaved Springbeauty, Narrowleaf Miner's Lettuce, Littleleaf Springbeauty, Utah Miner's Lettuce

Distribution and Habitat

Claytonia parviflora is native to western North America. It thrives in moist, rocky areas and is often found near streambanks. Specific locations include Longview, Washington (collected in 1806) and the Merced River Canyon in California. It's also observed in Glacier National Park. Appears in shaded woodland locations.

Morphological Characteristics

Streambank springbeauty closely resembles miner's lettuce (Claytonia perfoliata) and has basal leaves.

Quirky Facts

• The plant was collected in Longview, Washington, as early as March 26, 1806.
• One source mentions that it's sometimes referred to as "Utah Miner's Lettuce," suggesting a prevalence or association with that state.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden is referenced as a community where people share tips and ideas for gardens, including seeds and plants.
• Discover Life has a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Claytonia parviflora.