October 2024

Flaxleaf whitepuff (Oligomeris linifolia) is an easily overlooked annual desert plant with an unusual backstory. This bushy-stemmed member of the Mignonette family (Resedaceae) is characterized by linear, succulent leaves and a narrow, spike-like inflorescence of small, greenish-white flowers. The species is atypical in being 2-merous (with floral parts in multiples of 2), rather than 4 […]

As a general rule, people avoid complicated Latin names for plants. But in some cases, the Latin name is descriptive or mellifluous enough for common use. One such example is the genus Trillium, known from about 50 species in North America and eastern Asia, and easily recognized by its showy three-petaled, lily-like flowers and whorls […]