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redroot cryptantha
Scientific Name: Cryptantha micrantha var. lepida
Family: Boraginaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Cryptantha micrantha: Redroot Cryptantha
Cryptantha micrantha, commonly known as Redroot Cryptantha, Redroot Catseye, Purpleroot Pick-me-not, or Smallflower Cryptantha, is a small plant found in various regions. Its most distinctive feature is its red root.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant possesses a red root, which might be of interest to digging pets.
Considerations for Children
- As the species name suggests, Cryptantha micrantha is a small plant.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cryptantha micrantha (Torr.) I.M. Johnst.
- Family: Boraginaceae (Borage Family)
- Synonyms: Eremocarya micrantha (Torr.) Greene (mentioned indirectly as a redirect)
- Varieties:
- Cryptantha micrantha (Torr.) I.M. Johnst. var. micrantha
- Cryptantha micrantha (Torr.) I.M. Johnst. var. lepida (A. Gray) I.M. Johnst.
Distribution and Habitat
- Primarily found in the Borrego Desert and California.
- Also present in Yavapai County, Arizona.
- Observed in the White Mountains at elevations of 1585 m (5205 ft).
- Prefers sandy soils.
Morphological Characteristics
- Annual forb, typically growing to 10 cm in height.
- Forms rounded to cushion-like clumps.
- Distinguished by its red taproot, which often turns purple when dry.
- Stems are branched throughout.
Quirky Facts
- The plant is easily recognized by its diminutive appearance and the red dye in its root.
Further Information
- USDA PLANTS Database: http://plants.usda.gov
- Dave's Garden: Offers tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
- Encyclopedia of Life
- Discover Life: Provides information on history, ecology, identification, and distribution.