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White River coraldrops
Scientific Name: Besseya plantaginea
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
White River Coraldrops (Besseya plantaginea)
Learn all about the White River Coraldrops, a charming forb/herb with notable distribution in specific regions. Here's a closer look:
Considerations for Pets
- Historically, a lotion made from this plant was used by Navajo warriors. While this doesn't directly indicate toxicity, it suggests the presence of substances that warrant consideration.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Besseya plantaginea (James) Rydb.
- Common Names: White River coraldrops, White River Coral-drops, White River Kittentails, Arizona coraldrops (though this can refer to other species)
- Family: Plantaginaceae (formerly Scrophulariaceae)
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonym: Synthyris plantaginea (E. James) Benth.
Distribution and Habitat
- Primarily found in south-central Colorado, specifically within the Pike and San Isabel National Forests.
- Also noted in Wyoming and New Mexico.
- Reported in Southeastern Arizona.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Classified as a forb/herb, meaning it is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
- It is a perennial plant.
Ecological Role
- It can be grown outside and these plants are rustic in areas with a mediterranean climate, therefore they can be grown outside.
- Can't stand the cold weather and should the climate be particularly harsh, with minimum night-time temperatures.
Traditional Uses
- Historically, a lotion derived from the plant was used by Navajo warriors during hunting and warfare.
Further Resources
- USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
- Encyclopedia of Life