SafePlants

Southwestern Ringstem (Anulocaulis leiosolenus)

The Southwestern Ringstem, scientifically known as Anulocaulis leiosolenus, is a perennial wildflower with several interesting characteristics. It is also sometimes referred to simply as Ringstem.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions "glutinous brown bands" or "sticky, glandular rings" encircling the stem, which might be a consideration if pets are likely to ingest plant parts.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Anulocaulis leiosolenus (Torr.) Standl.
• Family: Nyctaginaceae (Four O'Clock Family)
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Boerhavia leiosolena Torr.
• Varieties:
  • Anulocaulis leiosolenus var. leiosolenus
  • Anulocaulis leiosolenus var. gypsogenus (Waterf.) Spellenb. &amp Wootten (Gypsum Ringstem)
  • Anulocaulis leiosolenus var. howardii Spellenb. &amp Wootten (Howard's Gyp Ringstem)
  • Anulocaulis leiosolenus var. lasianthus I.M. Johnst.

Common Names

• Southwestern Ringstem
• Ringstem

Distribution and Habitat

• The Southwestern Ringstem is found in the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.
• Specifically, it thrives in calcareous clays and shales, and sometimes gypsum-rich soils.

Morphological Characteristics

• Ringstems are described as thickly-rooted perennial wildflowers.
• The "ringstem" common name comes from the sticky, glandular rings or glutinous brown bands encircling the stem.
• It is classified as a forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that is not a grass.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The Southwestern Ringstem (Anulocaulis leiosolenus) is mentioned as a food source for certain insects.

Further Information

• Flora of North America
• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
• The Catalogue of Life
• ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System)
• Jepson eFlora