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San Francisco spineflower

Scientific Name: Chorizanthe cuspidata var. villosa

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 endemic to California. It belongs to the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae) and showcases intriguing adaptations to its environment.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant is commonly referred to as "spineflower," which alludes to the presence of spines.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant is commonly referred to as "spineflower," which alludes to the presence of spines.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Chorizanthe cuspidata
  • Family: Polygonaceae (Buckwheat family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Varieties:
    • Chorizanthe cuspidata var. cuspidata (San Francisco Bay spineflower)
    • Chorizanthe cuspidata var. villosa
    • Chorizanthe cuspidata var. marginata (Synonym)
  • Synonyms:
    • Chorizanthe cuspidata S. Watson
    • Chorizanthe pungens Bentham var. cuspidata (S. Watson) Parry
    • Chorizanthe cuspidata var. marginata Goodman
  • Element Code: PDPGN04081

Common Names

  • San Francisco spineflower
  • San Francisco Bay spineflower

Distribution and Habitat

  • Endemic to California, particularly the San Francisco Bay Area.
  • Also found in Marin, Sonoma, and Monterey counties in a few parts.
  • Inhabits open sand dunes and dune slopes.
  • Early dune colonizer, dependent on open sandy habitat for establishment.
  • Also found in western North America and South America.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Annual herb.
  • Stem is soft and hairy, often prostrate (lying flat on the ground).

Ecological Role

  • Early dune colonizer, which means it's one of the first plants to establish itself in newly formed or disturbed dune environments.
  • Dependent on open, sandy habitat for establishment.

Conservation Status

  • CNPS List 1B.2: Fairly Endangered in California.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Serves as a host plant for the San Bruno Elfin Butterfly (Incisalia mossii bayensis).

Further Information

  • Discover Life provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chorizanthe cuspidata.