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Idaho balsamroot
Scientific Name: Balsamorhiza hookeri var. idahoensis
Family: Asteraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Balsamroot: A Western North American Native
Balsamroots, particularly the Arrowleaf Balsamroot, paint the landscapes of western North America with vibrant color. Let's explore some of the interesting details about this plant.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that balsamroot is used in rangeland, which suggests it may be encountered on hikes or in areas where animals graze.
Considerations for Children
- The plant is found in nature (e.g., hillsides, meadows) and could be encountered during outdoor activities.
Scientific Name & Common Names
- Scientific Name: Balsamorhiza sagittata (for Arrowleaf Balsamroot)
- Common Names: Balsam Root, Hooker's balsamroot, Hairy balsamroot, Idaho balsamroot, Rabbithead balsamroot, Negle, Spring sunflower (for Arrowleaf Balsamroot)
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Asteraceae (also known as Compositae) - the sunflower family
- Genus: Balsamorhiza Nutt.
- Species: Mentions Balsamorhiza macrophylla Nutt. – cutleaf balsamroot
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to western North America (United States and Canada), particularly Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, and Washington.
- Often found on hillsides and in foothills, such as the Boise Foothills and the Rocky Mountain foothills.
Morphological Characteristics
- Described as a large plant with showy blooms, resembling sunflowers.
Ecological Role
- Used in rangeland, conservation, and restoration projects.
Quirky Facts
- Arrowleaf Balsamroot is also known as a "spring sunflower".
Further Information
- USDA NRCS Plant Materials Center, Aberdeen, Idaho.
- USDA FS Rocky Mountain Research Station.
- Idaho BLM Technical Bulletin 2005-04
- University of Idaho
- Washington State University