SafePlants

Bristly Cryptantha: A Closer Look

The name "Bristly Cryptantha" refers to several species within the Cryptantha genus, known for their bristly hairs. Let's delve into what makes these plants interesting.

Considerations for Pets

• Several species have bristly or sharp hairs.

Considerations for Children

• Several species have bristly or sharp hairs.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Cryptantha interrupta, Cryptantha setosissima
• Common Names: Bristly Cryptantha, Bristly Catseye, Bristlelobe Cryptantha, Narrowleaf Pick-me-not, Silky Cryptantha, Fish Lake cat's eye

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Cryptantha
• Family: Boraginaceae (Borage Family)
• Synonyms: Oreocarya setosissima, Cryptantha spiculifera (Piper) Payson (synonym for Cryptantha interrupta), Cryptantha bradburiana Payson, Cryptantha hispidula Greene ex Baker, nomen nudum
• Taxonomic Status: Accepted

Distribution and Habitat

• Cryptantha interrupta grows in dry places, often with sagebrush, in the Great Basin and reaches north to central Washington.
• Cryptantha setosissima can be found in Arizona.

Morphological Characteristics

• Tuft of basal leaves, stems erect, usually numerous.
• Leaves with bristly gray hairs on both sides. Basal leaves are oblong.
• Can range from annual herbs with short, bristly, multi-branched stems to subshrubs or forbs/herbs, and can reach up to 20" tall.
• Covered with bristly trichomes.

Quirky Facts

• The name "Cryptantha" comes from the Greek words "crypto" and "anthos" which roughly translates to "hidden flower".
• The etymology of the synonym Cryptantha hispidula means "minutely hispid with little, bristly hairs."

Ecology

• It is a biennial or perennial plant.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS Database.
• Encyclopedia of Life
• Discover Life
• PLANT database of portail-jardin.com
• SummitPost.org