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San Francisco spineflower
Scientific Name: Chorizanthe cuspidata var. cuspidata
Family: Polygonaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
San Francisco Spineflower (Chorizanthe cuspidata)
The San Francisco spineflower, scientifically known as Chorizanthe cuspidata, is a fascinating plant species with several varieties and a unique ecological role. It is also referred to as San Francisco Bay spineflower.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant is called Spineflower, and it is conceivable that it possesses spines.
Considerations for Children
- The plant is called Spineflower, and it is conceivable that it possesses spines.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Polygonaceae (Buckwheat Family)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Taxonomic Rank: Variety (e.g., Chorizanthe cuspidata var. cuspidata, Chorizanthe cuspidata var. villosa, Chorizanthe cuspidata var. marginata)
- Synonyms:
- Chorizanthe cuspidata S. Watson
- Chorizanthe pungens Bentham var. cuspidata (S. Watson) Parry
Distribution and Habitat
- The San Francisco spineflower is endemic to California, particularly the San Francisco Bay Area.
- Specifically found in parts of Marin, Sonoma, and Monterey counties.
- It thrives in open sandy habitats and is an early colonizer of dunes.
Ecological Role
- As an early dune colonizer, the San Francisco spineflower requires open, sandy habitat for establishment.
Morphological Characteristics
- The stem is soft, hairy, and often prostrate (lying flat on the ground).
- It is an annual herb.
- Described as a "strange looking plant with little whitish flowers".
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Mentioned in association with the San Bruno Elfin Butterfly.
- Grows in the same habitat as the San Francisco wallflower.
Further Information
- Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chorizanthe cuspidata.