SafePlants

Considerations for Pets

This plant is a member of the Brassicaceae family, also known as the mustard family. Plants in this family may have varying levels of compounds that could cause gastrointestinal upset in pets if ingested. Exercise caution and monitor your pets if they are near this plant.

Considerations for Children

This plant is known to grow in areas where outdoor activities such as hiking and bouldering may occur. Therefore, children may encounter it in its natural environment. Be aware of its presence and inform children to avoid ingesting or handling the plant.

Scientific and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Arabis pygmaea Rollins (This name is not active; please see Boechera pygmaea)
• Common Name: Tulare County Rockcress

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard Family)
• Synonym: Boechera pygmaea (Rollins) Al-Shehbaz
• Related ITIS Name: Arabis pygmaea Rollins

Distribution and Habitat

• Endemic to specific counties in California, including Inyo, Mono, Tulare, Fresno, Madera, El Dorado, and Mariposa.
• Specific occurrences have been noted in Fresno and Tulare counties.
• Found along the Kern River near Lake Isabella.
• Grows in rocky mountain slopes.

Morphological Characteristics

• Type: Forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass)
• Duration: Perennial
• Growth Habit: Gives origin to a brush with a rounded form.

Ecological Role

• Serves as a host plant for caterpillars, specifically those that feed on rockcress (Arabis species) and other members of the mustard family.
• The flowers provide nectar for adult butterflies and other pollinators.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS Database
• CalPhotos
• Garden Guides
• Dave's Garden
• Discover Life
• British Database of World Flora and Fauna