SafePlants

Arrowleaf Balsamroot

The Arrowleaf Balsamroot, scientifically known as Balsamorhiza sagittata, is a striking wildflower native to western North America. It's a member of the sunflower tribe within the aster family (Asteraceae).

Considerations for Pets

• The plant has a covering of felt-like tomentum of short trichomes.
• The plant grows from a deep, woody taproot.

Considerations for Children

• The plant has a covering of felt-like tomentum of short trichomes.
• The plant grows from a deep, woody taproot.

Common Names

• Arrowleaf Balsamroot
• Arrow-leaved Balsamroot
• Breadroot
• Oregon Sunflower
• Spring Sunflower
• Okanagan Sunflower
• Balsamroot

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Balsamorhiza sagittata (Pursh) Nutt.
• Family: Asteraceae (also known as Compositae)
• Synonyms:
  • Bupthalmium sagitattum
  • Buphthalmum sagittata
  • Espeletia sagittata
  • Espeletia helianthoides
  • Balsamorhiza helianthoides

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to western North America, including the United States and Canada.
• Common in the deserts and mountains of the western United States.
• Found throughout the Great Basin.
• Grows from the Southern Sierra Nevada mountains.
• Can be found in places such as the Columbia Hills to the north of The Dalles, OR and the Methow Valley.

Morphological Characteristics

• A perennial herb that grows from a deep, woody taproot.
• Leaves are primarily in a basal rosette.
• Leaves are widely triangular with a heart-shaped base, typically 8-24 inches long.
• Entire plant has a grayish appearance due to a felt-like covering of short trichomes.
• Sunflower-like blooms that are bright yellow.
• Grows from 10 to 30 inches tall.
• Has a single flower per stem.

Historical/Traditional Uses

• Native Americans used the plant.
• It is described as a stimulating expectorant, stimulating diaphoretic, and an antimicrobial suitable for sore throats.

Quirky Facts

• The Arrowleaf Balsamroot is the official floral emblem of Kelowna, British Columbia, where it is also known as the Okanagan Sunflower.
• Its name "sagittata" comes from the arrow-shaped leaves.
• The bright yellow flowers are one of the first signs of spring throughout the Great Basin.

Further Information

• USDA Plants Database: http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=basa3
• Herbal Remedies Advice: http://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/arrowleaf-balsamroot.html