SafePlants

Cryptantha circumscissa: Cushion Cryptantha

Cryptantha circumscissa, commonly known as cushion cryptantha, is a flowering plant belonging to the borage family (Boraginaceae). Other common names include cushion catseye and matted cryptantha.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is described as "prickly".
• The herbage of this plant is described as "stiff-hairy".

Considerations for Children

• The plant is described as "prickly".
• The herbage of this plant is described as "stiff-hairy".

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cryptantha circumscissa (Hook. & Arn.) I.M. Johnston
• Family: Boraginaceae (Borage family)
• Synonym: Greeneocharis circumscissa
• Variety: Cryptantha circumscissa var. circumscissa
• Alternative Scientific Name: Cryptantha circumscissa var. genuina I.M.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to western North America, including California and Nevada.
• Found in sandy areas, such as along the east bank of the Columbia River.

Morphological Characteristics

• Dwarf annual plant, typically 1-6 cm high.
• Cushion-forming growth habit, often wider than tall and rounded.
• Leaves are narrowly linear, 5-13 mm long, and densely hairy.
• Flowers are small and white, sometimes overlooked.
• Produces flowers with either relatively broad or narrow corolla tubes (dimorphic flowers).
• The tubular calyx is persistent and envelopes the fruits.
• Annual plant.
• Plant Form: Forb/herb

Further Information

• Information can be found on iNaturalist.org.
• Discover Life provides information on its biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution.
• Additional media and details are available from CalPhotos.
• International Plant Names Index lists information as Cryptantha circumscissa I.M.Johnst.