SafePlants

Serrate Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza serrata)

The Serrate Balsamroot, scientifically known as Balsamorhiza serrata, is a perennial herb native to western North America. It belongs to the sunflower tribe within the aster family (Asteraceae).

Common Names

• Serrate Balsamroot
• Toothed Balsamroot
• Serrated Balsamroot

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Balsamorhiza serrata A. Nelson &amp J.F. Macbr.
• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower Family)
• Synonym: Balsamorhiza hispidula Sharp

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to western North America (United States and Canada).
• Specific locations mentioned include Nevada, Washington, Oregon, and California.
• Often found growing on ashy soils.

Morphological Characteristics

• Grows as a forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).
• Perennial plant.
• Features showy greenish yellow flowers.
• Mature height averages around 12 inches.
• Leaves are green, glandular, and soft-hairy.
• Leaves are described as narrow to widely oval, pinnately lobed or deltoid-ovate, 4-29 cm long and 2-8 cm wide, sharply serrate, but also with some pinnatifid leaves.
• Stems are erect.

Ecological Role

• Information suggests potential invasiveness, as indicated by the mention of the "Invasive Plant Atlas." (Further investigation is recommended.)

Quirky Facts

• The Balsamroots get their name from having fragrant roots, and generally display similar flowers, although the plants themselves can differ significantly.
• One observation notes the Serrate Balsamroot developing into a round-shaped, shrub-like form, assuming a white coloration in the summer.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS Database (Symbol: BASE2)
• Encyclopedia of Life
• EDDMapS (Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System)
• Flora of North America
• Discover Life
• Dave's Garden