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diffuse spineflower

Scientific Name: Chorizanthe diffusa

Family: Polygonaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Diffuse Spineflower (Chorizanthe diffusa)

The Diffuse Spineflower, scientifically known as Chorizanthe diffusa, belongs to the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae). It is also referred to simply as diffuse spineflower.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant's common name includes "spineflower," suggesting the presence of spines or sharp edges, which could pose a physical hazard.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant's common name includes "spineflower," suggesting the presence of spines or sharp edges, which could pose a physical hazard.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Chorizanthe diffusa
  • Family: Polygonaceae (Buckwheat Family)
  • Synonyms:
    • Chorizanthe diffusa Benth.
    • Chorizanthe pungens Bentham var. diffusa
  • Varieties:
    • Chorizanthe diffusa var. nivea (Curran) Hoover
    • Chorizanthe pungens var. nivea Curran
  • Symbol: CHDI3

Distribution and Habitat

  • Spineflowers, in general, are found in western North America and South America.
  • Chorizanthe diffusa is endemic to California.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Chorizanthe diffusa is described as a forb/herb, which means it is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
  • The plant has distinct awns.

Ecological Considerations

  • In some areas, Chorizanthe diffusa may be sympatric with the Ben Lomond spineflower (Chorizanthe pungens var. hartwegiana).

Related Species

  • San Benito spineflower (Chorizanthe douglasii)
  • Narrow leaf spineflower / Narrowleaf spineflower (Chorizanthe angustifolia)
  • Monterey spineflower (Chorizanthe pungens)
  • Mendocino spineflower (Chorizanthe howellii)
  • Devil's spineflower (Chorizanthe rigida)

Further Information

  • Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chorizanthe diffusa.
  • CalPhotos provides images of Chorizanthe diffusa.