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California balsamroot

Scientific Name: Balsamorhiza macrolepis

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

California Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza macrolepis)

California Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza macrolepis) is a perennial herb native to western North America. It belongs to the sunflower tribe within the aster family (Asteraceae). This plant is also known as California balsamroot.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text indicates a negative "Safe Plant Rating" for dogs.

Considerations for Children

  • The text indicates a negative "Safe Plant Rating" for children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Balsamorhiza macrolepis
  • Common Name: California Balsamroot
  • Family: Asteraceae (Aster or Sunflower family)
  • Synonyms:
    • Balsamorhiza deltoidea (Deltoid Balsamroot - though the text mentions it is very similar)
    • Balsamorhiza hookeri
  • Varieties:
    • Balsamorhiza macrolepis var. macrolepis
    • Balsamorhiza macrolepis var. platylepis

Distribution and Habitat

California Balsamroot is native to western North America, specifically the United States and Canada. Its range extends from British Columbia south through Washington, Oregon, and California. Within California, it's primarily found in central and northern regions, including the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • California Balsamroot is a perennial herb.
  • Deltoid Balsamroot is a large perennial that produces one or more crowns.
  • It is described as a forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).

Quirky Facts

  • The species name macrolepis honors California botanist Dr. Hiram Green Bloomer.

Ecological Role

  • This plant thrives in areas with a lot of sunlight.

Traditional Uses

  • Native Americans used the plant for food and medicine.

Related Species

  • Arrowleaf Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza sagittata): Found in similar regions, including the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
  • Deltoid Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza deltoidea): Shares range and has similar characteristics.
  • Hooker's Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza hookeri): Its variety *platylepis* is also considered to be *Balsamorhiza macrolepis*.

Further Information

  • Discover Life: Offers information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Balsamorhiza macrolepis.