SafePlants

Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides: Daggerpod, Wallflower Phoenicaulis

Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides, commonly known as daggerpod or wallflower phoenicaulis, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the mustard family (Brassicaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• The plant produces dagger-shaped seedpods, which could present a potential choking hazard if ingested by pets.
• The leaves are described as being covered with white or gray forked hairs. These hairs could potentially cause irritation if touched or ingested.

Considerations for Children

• The plant produces dagger-shaped seedpods, which could present a potential choking hazard if ingested by children.
• The leaves are described as being covered with white or gray forked hairs. These hairs could potentially cause irritation if touched or ingested.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides Nutt.
• Common Names: Daggerpod, Wallflower Phoenicaulis
• Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Synonyms: Anelsonia eurycarpa (A. Gray) J.F. Macbr. & Payson

Distribution and Habitat

• Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides thrives in dry sagebrush deserts and open ponderosa pine environments.
• It can be found from lowlands to near the treeline, and has been observed at high altitudes, around 11,000 feet, such as near Mt. Patterson in the Sweetwater Mountains, California.
• Its range extends north to southeast Washington, east to western Idaho, and south.

Morphological Characteristics

• It's a perennial plant, often forming a basal rosette.
• The plant typically grows to a height of 4-8 inches.
• The basal clump consists of many gray leaves emerging from a thick base.
• Leaves range from egg-shaped to narrowly oval and are densely to lightly covered with white or gray forked hairs.
• A distinguishing feature is its dagger-shaped fruiting pods.

Quirky Facts

• The plant's common name, "daggerpod," is derived from the distinctive dagger-like shape of its seedpods.