SafePlants

Cryptantha: The Whispers of the West

The genus Cryptantha, belonging to the Borage family (Boraginaceae), is a diverse group of flowering plants, often referred to as "white forget-me-nots" due to their resemblance to the true forget-me-nots. While most species showcase delicate white flowers, a select few, such as Cryptantha flava, exhibit sunny yellow blossoms.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Cryptantha species have bristly hairs covering the plant.

Considerations for Children

• Some Cryptantha species have bristly hairs covering the plant.
• Cryptantha minima is a small plant with tiny flowers, potentially posing a choking hazard if ingested by small children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cryptantha
• Family: Boraginaceae (Borage Family)
• Order: Lamiales
• Synonyms: Oreocarya flava (sometimes used for Brenda's Yellow Cryptantha)
• Species Examples:
  • Cryptantha confertiflora (Greene) Payson – Basin Yellow Catseye
  • Cryptantha ochroleuca Higgins – Yellowwhite Cryptantha, Yellow-white Catseye
  • Cryptantha spiculifera (Piper) Payson (synonym: Cryptantha interrupta (Greene) Payson - misapplied)
  • Cryptantha ambigua
  • Cryptantha flava
  • Cryptantha flavoculata
  • Cryptantha minima

Distribution and Habitat

• Cryptantha is a large genus primarily found in the arid regions of the Western United States.
• Specific locations mentioned include Joshua Tree National Park (California), White and Inyo Mountains, and Brown's Park.
• Habitats range from desert mountains to basins.

Morphological Characteristics

• Flowers are generally small, with corollas that are almost always white, though yellow in some species.
• Flowers often have yellow centers or throats.
• The corolla can be tubular, with five spreading lobes.
• Flower size generally 1-2mm in diameter.
• Cryptantha confertiflora is a subshrub or perennial forb that grows to about 15 inches.
• Tiny Cryptantha is a small, bristly-haired annual plant.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Northern White-Skipper and Sagebrush Checkerspot butterflies have been observed near Cryptantha species.

Quirky Facts

• Species of Cryptantha are often referred to as "white forget-me-nots."
• The genus name "Cryptantha" is from the Greek "kryptos."

Resources and Further Information

• BISON Web Link: http://bison.usgs.ornl.gov/api/scientificName/Cryptantha%20ochroleuca
• ITIS Web Link
• Encyclopedia of Life (for information on Cryptantha ochroleuca)