Alyssum alyssoides
(Pale Madwort)
Alyssum simplex, FR265, Gunnsion National Forest, Gunnison Co. 4025
Alyssum simplex, FR265, Gunnsion National Forest, Gunnison Co. 4021
Alyssum simplex, FR265, Gunnsion National Forest, Gunnison Co. 4027
| Scientific Name | Alyssum alyssoides | USDA PLANTS Symbol | ALAL3 |
| Common Name | Pale Madwort, Pale Alyssum | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 23030 |
| Family | Brassicaceae (Mustard) | SEINet Reference |
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| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Plains to foothills (5200 to 8500 ft.); dryer soils in grassy areas, fields, among sagebrush and in disturbed areas and along roadsides. Plant: Erect, hairy annual, 2 to 12 inches tall; single or several stems from base; plant covered with stellate (star-shaped) hairs. Leaves: Stem leaves 1-1/4 to 1-3/4 inches long and about 1/8-inch wide, gradually smaller upward, narrowly-oblanceolate to linear, sometimes spatulate or obovate with rounded or pointed tips; nearly sessile. Inflorescence: Tight elongated cluster of tiny pale yellow flowers along the upper few inches of the stem; four linear petals notched at tips; four oblong, green, covered by star-shaped hairs; sepals are persistent. Bloom Period: May to July. Fruit: Round, bulging in the middle and flattened around the edges, about 3/16-inch across and covered with star-shaped hairs. References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, Flora Northwest and Flora of North America. |
BONAP Distribution Map
Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Introduced |
© Tom Lebsack 2024
Banner photo: Ten Mile Range and Rhodiola integrifolia (King’s Crown) in Summit County