SafePlants

Cryptantha minima (Little Cryptantha)

Cryptantha minima, commonly known as Little Cryptantha, is a small annual herb belonging to the borage family.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant has bristly hairs (described as "minutely hispid with little, bristly hairs").
• It's found in dry areas which can indicate that it might thrive in gardens.

Considerations for Children

• This plant has bristly hairs (described as "minutely hispid with little, bristly hairs").

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cryptantha minima Rydb.
• Family: Boraginaceae (Borage Family)
• Genus: Cryptantha
• Species: minima
• Synonyms: Cryptantha hispidula Greene ex Baker, *nomen nudum* (Note: the text mentions that *Cryptantha hispidula* is a *nomen nudum*, which means it's a name that has been published without a proper description and therefore is not validly published).
• Common Names: Little Cryptantha, Little Catseye, Small Cryptantha, Tiny Cryptanthe
• Taxonomic Serial Number (TSN): 31773

Distribution and Habitat

• Cryptantha minima is found in the United States (OK, SD, TX, WY) and Canada (AB, SK).
• It prefers dry areas with full sun and little competing vegetation.
• It has been observed growing on sandy roadsides and near lakes in Colorado at altitudes of 3,500 feet.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Cryptantha minima is a forb/herb with an annual growth habit.
• The plant is described as being "minutely hispid with little, bristly hairs."
• The plant's size has been recorded as 6mm.

Ecology

• Cryptantha minima thrives in dry areas with full sun, indicating a tolerance for drought conditions.

Quirky Facts

• Species of Cryptantha are often referred to as white "forget-me-nots."
• One source mentions that Colorado plant authority William Weber divides the traditional Cryptantha genus into Cryptantha and Oreocarya.

Further Information

• ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System)
• Discover Life
• UW Herbarium
• Kellar Lab - Nebraska Plants page
• Plantae Mundi