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achyronychia

Scientific Name: Achyronychia

Family: Caryophyllaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Achyronychia cooperi: Onyxflower

Achyronychia cooperi, a member of the Caryophyllaceae family, is a small annual herb with a delicate appearance. Commonly known as Onyxflower, Frost-mat, or Sand-mat, this plant adds a touch of subtle beauty to the arid landscapes it inhabits.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • This plant is a low-growing herb (stems 3-17cm) with small leaves (blade 3-20 mm) that may be tempting for curious pets or children to touch or ingest.
  • The name "chaff claw" alludes to its chaffy calyx.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Achyronychia cooperi Torr. & A. Gray
  • Common Names: Onyxflower, Frost-mat, Sand-mat
  • Family: Caryophyllaceae (Pink Family)
  • Genus: Achyronychia (monotypic, containing only this species)
  • Synonyms: Corrigiola littoralis (misapplied)
  • Taxonomic Serial Number (TSN): 20228

Distribution and Habitat

  • Achyronychia cooperi is native to western North America.
  • It is found in California, Arizona, Nevada and Utah.
  • It can also be found in Baja California.
  • This species thrives in sandy areas, including sand dunes.
  • Specific locations mentioned include Death Valley, CA and the Sonoran Desert, CA (east of 29 Palms).

Morphological Characteristics

  • Achyronychia cooperi is an annual forb (herbaceous flowering plant).
  • Stems are typically 3-17 cm long and mostly glabrous (smooth).
  • Leaves are arranged in unequal pairs.
  • Small stipules (0.1-0.4 mm) are present.
  • Leaf blades are 3-20 mm in length.
  • Inflorescences contain 20-60+ flowers.
  • Flowers have a small perianth (2.5-3 mm).

Quirky Facts

  • The genus name Achyronychia derives from the Greek words "achuron" (chaff) and "onyx/onychos" (nail or fingernail), referring to the plant's chaffy calyx.

Further Information

  • Tropicos: https://www.tropicos.org/
  • The Plant List
  • ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System)
  • ASU Vascular Plant Herbarium
  • Discover Life: https://www.discoverlife.org/
  • B and T World Seeds' database
  • Southwest Biodiversity: http://swbiodiversity.org/seinet/taxa/index.php