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desert cryptantha

Scientific Name: Cryptantha similis

Family: Boraginaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Cryptantha: Cat's Eyes and Popcorn Flowers

Cryptantha, commonly known as cat's eyes and popcorn flowers, is a fascinating genus of flowering plants found in various arid regions. Their delicate beauty and resilience make them a subject of interest for botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cryptantha spp. (Several species are mentioned, including Cryptantha barbigera vars. barbigera, fergusoniae, and C. intermedia; Cryptantha scoparia; Cryptantha similis; Cryptantha crassisepala; Cryptantha flava; Cryptantha pterocarya; Cryptantha gracilis; and Cryptantha angustifolia)
  • Common Names: Cat's Eyes, Popcorn Flowers. Specific species also have common names, such as Desert Cryptantha, Pinyon Desert Cryptantha, Wingnut Cryptantha, Narrowstem Cryptantha, and Thick-sepal Cat's Eye.
  • Family: Boraginaceae (Borage Family or Forget-Me-Not Family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Cryptantha species are amphitropically distributed, meaning they are found in both western North America and South America.
  • They are particularly abundant in the deserts of North America, including the Colorado, Mojave, and Sonoran Deserts.
  • Specific locations mentioned include the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Newberry Mountains Wilderness (CA), and the Spring Hills area off Hwy 127 N of Baker, CA.
  • They are often found in sandy soils and open areas.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Cryptantha can be either annual or perennial herbs.
  • Some species are bushy, while others are taller than wide.
  • Flowers often grow in the axils of leafy bracts.
  • Many species have small white flowers.
  • Some Cryptantha species have nutlets with toothed wings.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The blister beetle (Lytta magister) has been observed feeding on desert Cryptantha, specifically C. angustifolia.

Further Information

  • Discover Life provides detailed information on the history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cryptantha.
  • The Intermountain Flora Vol. 4 (Cronquist et al.) includes information about the genus Cryptantha.
  • The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh has photos and information on some species.