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subalpine cryptantha

Scientific Name: Cryptantha crymophila

Family: Boraginaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Subalpine Cryptantha (Cryptantha crymophila)

Cryptantha crymophila, commonly known as Subalpine Cryptantha, is a perennial herb belonging to the Borage Family (Boraginaceae).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cryptantha crymophila I.M. Johnston
  • Family: Boraginaceae (Borage Family)
  • Synonym: Oreocarya crymophila (Note: some databases might list information under this synonym.)
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Life Cycle: Perennial

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to California, where it is considered endemic.
  • Found in subalpine habitats, including grassy meadows and parklands in the upper subalpine zones.
  • Specifically mentioned in subalpine habitats of the Sierra Nevada, Inyo and Tulare Counties.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Growth Habit: Described as both a subshrub and a forb/herb.
  • Duration: Perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years.
  • Height: Reported to grow between 2 and 8 inches.

Similar Species

  • Cryptantha abata
  • Cryptantha albida
  • Cryptantha barbigera (bearded cryptantha)
  • Cryptantha cinerea
  • Cryptantha decipiens (Gravel Cryptantha)
  • Cryptantha dumetorum

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Observed growing alongside Tahoe draba, great gray owl, alpine dusty maidens, and Great Basin claytonia.
  • Associated with the Mono checkerspot butterfly.

Further Information

  • California Native Plant Society
  • Dave's Garden
  • Garden Guides
  • Discover Life
  • Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS) - TSN 31801