Oreocarya humilis, synonym Cryptantha humilis, is a perennial plant in the borage family (Boraginaceae), native to the western United States.[1] It may be called low cryptantha.[2]

Description

Oreocarya humilis has small, densely leafy stems, giving it a cushion-like appearance, and is relatively low growing, hence the common name. The hairy leaves are spoon-shaped. The inflorescences have five-lobed, white flowers with a yellow ring inside the upper throat, and are less than 1⁄2 in (1.3 cm) wide. The ovate fruits (nutlets) are more wrinkled than those of O. nubigena.[2]

Distribution and habitat

Oreocarya humilis is native to the western United States: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Utah.[1] In the Sierra Nevada range, it is found in dry, gravely soils of the sagebrush scrub community, in subalpine forest, and the alpine zone, up to 11,900 feet (3,600 m).[2]

References

  1. ^ a b c d "Oreocarya humilis (A.Gray) Greene". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
  2. ^ a b c Sierra Nevada Wildflowers, Karen Wiese, 2nd Ed., 2013, P. 152