SafePlants

Hooker's Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza hookeri)

Hooker's balsamroot, scientifically known as Balsamorhiza hookeri, is a perennial herb belonging to the sunflower family.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Balsamorhiza hookeri (Hook.) Nutt.
• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower Family)
• Rank: Species
• Common Names: Hooker's balsamroot, Hairy balsamroot
• Synonyms/Varieties:
  • Balsamorhiza hookeri var. hispidula (Sharp) Cronquist
  • Balsamorhiza hookeri var. idahoensis
  • Balsamorhiza hookeri var. lagocephala
• Etymology: The species is named after William Jackson Hooker (1785-1865), Director of Kew.

Distribution and Habitat

This species is native to western North America, specifically the United States and Canada. It thrives in the Great Basin and neighboring regions, including Washington, Oregon, and Nevada. It is often found in arid shrub-steppe habitats, rocky soils, sagebrush, and cool desert environments.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Perennial plant, growing up to 0.3 meters (1 foot) tall and wide.
• Often among the first plants to produce leaves and flowers in spring.
• Can grow up to 2 feet tall.
• Leafless flowering stem, 10-40 cm tall, arising from a carrot-like taproot.
• Basal leaves are 10-40 cm large.
• Large, heart shaped or divided green basal leaves.
• Flowers from May to June.
• Distinguished from similar species by its many divided leaves.

Ecological Role

Hooker's balsamroot is utilized by livestock and big game. It is considered a desirable forage for cattle, sheep, horses, and elk during the spring.

Interactions with Other Organisms

It is found growing alongside other plants, such as Pediocactus simpsonii (Simpson's foot cactus) and lupines.

Further Information

• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
• Dave's Garden
• Portland State University PDXScholar Institute for Natural Resources Publications