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slimstalk spiderling
Scientific Name: Boerhavia gracillima
Family: Nyctaginaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Boerhavia gracillima: Slimstalk Spiderling
Boerhavia gracillima, commonly known as slimstalk spiderling, is a perennial subshrub forb/herb belonging to the Nyctaginaceae (Four O'Clock) family. The name "spiderling" refers to the appearance of the inflorescences of some species within the Boerhavia genus.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Boerhavia gracillima Heimerl
- Family: Nyctaginaceae (Four O'Clock Family)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms: Boerhavia gracillima subsp. decalvata Heimerl ex Standl., B. organensis Standley
Distribution and Habitat
Boerhavia gracillima is native to the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas) and Mexico (Sonora, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas). It thrives in dry, rocky areas such as grasslands.
Morphological Characteristics
- Habit: Perennial herb or subshrub, often woody at the base.
- Stems: Decumbent to erect, usually profusely branched.
- Height: Typically reaches an average height of 12 inches (30 cm).
- Flowers: Features reddish-orange or purplish fuchsia blooms that resemble a leggy Baby's Breath.
- Roots: Possesses a long, ropelike taproot.
Quirky Facts
- The common name "spiderling" is inspired by the appearance of the plant's inflorescences, resembling a spider or spider web.
- Some refer to it as wine spiderling or red spiderling, showcasing the vibrant coloration of the flowers.
Resources and Further Information
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
- Dave's Garden
- Discover Life
- VegBank