SafePlants

Actia nana: Desert Holly and Dwarf Desert Peony

Actia nana, commonly known as desert holly or dwarf desert peony, is a fascinating perennial plant belonging to the sunflower family. This plant has several interesting features and a unique adaptation to its arid environment.

Considerations for Pets

• While specific toxicity information isn't provided, it's important to note that Actia nana is sometimes called "desert holly," suggesting potential leaf or stem characteristics that could be a concern for curious pets.

Considerations for Children

• The common name "desert holly" hints at features of the plant that could be concerning for children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Actia nana
• Common Names: Desert holly, dwarf desert peony, Dwarf Desertpeony, Desert Peony
• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)
• Synonym: Perezia nana

Distribution and Habitat

• Actia nana is native to North America.
• It is found specifically in the Sonoran Desert.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is described as a perennial herb.
• It is noted to have varied leaf and flower colors.
• It can have one to several stems arising from a woody caudex.

Additional Actia Species

• Actia thurberi (Thurber's Desertpeony): Also known as Actia mexicana and Perezia thurberi.
• Actia microcephala (California Desert-Peony): Also known as sacapellote.
• Actia runcinata (Featherleaf Desertpeony): Described as a forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).

Quirky Facts

• Actia nana is available as a pattern on upholstery fabric under the name "Manzanita Desert Peony" and "Yavapai Desert Peony", suggesting its aesthetic appeal and use in design.
• The plant blooms October to November.
• Despite its desert habitat, it can bear temperatures a few degrees below zero.

Further Information

• Additional information can be found in the Encyclopedia of Life, including content from Wikipedia.