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sicklepod rockcress
Scientific Name: Arabis sparsiflora
Family: Brassicaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb
Duration: Biennial, Perennial
Other Names:
Sicklepod Rockcress (Boechera sparsiflora)
Boechera sparsiflora, formerly known as Arabis sparsiflora, is a captivating plant recognized by its common names, including sicklepod rockcress and elegant rockcress.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant produces siliques (seed pods) that take on a flattened, curved sickle shape as they mature. While the text doesn't directly mention toxicity, it's always wise to prevent pets from ingesting any plant material.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Boechera sparsiflora
- Synonyms: Arabis sparsiflora
- Family: Brassicaceae (Cruciferae)
- Alternative Scientific Names: Arabis atriflora, Arabis sparsiflora var. atrorubens, Arabis sparsiflora var. columbiana
Distribution and Habitat
Boechera sparsiflora is native to the United States. Specifically, it is found east of the Cascade Mountains of Oregon and Washington, California (Boulder Oaks, Guatay), and in the San Gabriel Mountains. It also appears in Minnesota flora. It is also known to be in Utah. An occassional appearance in Illinois has been noted.
Morphological Characteristics
- The plant forms a clump with mostly basal leaves and 1 to few stems.
- Stems are typically straight or branched near the top.
- Leaves are lance-shaped and measure 1-4 inches in length.
- A distinguishing feature is its siliques (seed pods), which develop a flattened, curved sickle shape as they mature.
Ecology
- The plant is a forb/herb.
- It blooms from April to June.
Similar Species
- Hairy Rock-cress (Arabis pycnocarpa)
- Drummond's Rock-cress (Boechera stricta)
- Sicklepod (B. canadensis)
- Green Rock-cress
Further Resources
- USDA PLANTS Database
- Discover Life
- NCBI Taxonomy