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Rocky Mountain beeplant
Scientific Name: Cleome serrulata
Family: Capparaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Rocky Mountain Beeplant (Cleome serrulata)
The Rocky Mountain Beeplant, scientifically known as Cleome serrulata, is a striking wildflower native to western North America. Also known by several common names including Rocky Mountain Beeweed, Bee Spiderflower, Stinking-clover, Skunk Weed, and Navajo Spinach, this annual forb is known for its vibrant flowers and attraction to pollinators.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions a common name, "Skunk Weed," and that the plant can have an unpleasant smell, described as "clammy." While not explicitly toxic, the odor might be aversive to some animals.
- The plant produces seed pods, and though not specified, small seeds may pose a minor choking hazard if ingested in large quantities.
Considerations for Children
- The plant has seed pods, and though not specified, small seeds may pose a minor choking hazard if ingested in large quantities.
Quirky Facts
- The Rocky Mountain Beeplant was documented by the Lewis and Clark expedition in 1804 in South Dakota and again in 1806, marking an early record of its presence in North America.
- Despite its beauty, the plant is sometimes referred to as "Stinkweed" due to its unpleasant odor when smelled up close.
- Native Americans utilized this plant for both food and medicinal purposes.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cleome serrulata Pursh
- Synonyms: Peritoma serrulata, Cleome integrifolia, Peritoma integrifolia
- Family: Capparaceae (Caper Family)
Distribution and Habitat
Native to the western United States, the Rocky Mountain Beeplant thrives in dry, sunny, and well-drained areas. It can be found in locations such as Montana, Wyoming, and Utah (e.g., Antelope Island State Park). It prefers mesic to dry mesic soil conditions and full sun.
Morphology and Growth
- An erect, branched annual forb, typically growing to a height of 3-4 feet (12-48 inches).
- Stems are glabrous (smooth), waxy, and branched.
- Leaves are alternate and palmately compound with 3 leaflets. The leaflets are narrowly lanceolate, measuring 1 to 2.5 inches long.
- Flowers are pink, reddish-purple, or sometimes white, and approximately 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in size, arranged in racemes at the ends of branches.
- Produces thin seed pods that resemble legumes.
- It blooms from July to August.
Ecological Role
- The Rocky Mountain Beeplant is a significant nectar source for pollinators, particularly bees.
- It attracts various flower-visiting insects.
- It serves as a host plant for Becker's Whites, Common Whites, and Western Whites butterflies.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Flowers produce copious nectar, attracting bees and other pollinators.
- Attracts hummingbirds with its fragrant blossoms.
Further Information
- Dave's Garden
- Nebraska Statewide Arboretum