Lygodesmia juncea
(Rush Skeletonweed)
Lygodesmia juncea, Pawnee Buttes, Weld Co. 7882
Lygodesmia juncea, Pawnee Buttes, Weld Co. 7886
Lygodesmia juncea, Pawnee Buttes, Weld Co. 7883
| Scientific Name | Lygodesmia juncea | USDA PLANTS Symbol | LYJU |
| Common Name | Rush Skeletonweed, Rush Skeletonplant | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 503623 |
| Family | Asteraceae (Sunflower) | SEINet Reference |
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| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Plains to montane (3500 to 9000 ft.); sandy to silty soils on the high plains; prairies, open and disturbed areas. Plant: Perennial with bluish-grey stems that are erect to ascending or lying near the ground, much-branched with longitudinal striations. Leaves: Lower stem leaves are narrow, linear, 1/4 to 1-1/4 inches long hairless and with entire margins and acute tips; may be gone by flowering; upper leaves reduced to short scales. Inflorescence: Single or multiple, light purple to pink (rarely white) blossoms 1/2 to 3/4-inch across with (usually) 5 rays and toothed at tips; each ray with one protruding stigma; cylindrical involucres 3/8 to 5/8-inch long, with 5 to 7 light green, hairless phyllaries. Bloom Period: June to September. References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, American Southwest, Minnesota Wildflowers and Flora of North America. |
BONAP Distribution Map Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Native |
© Tom Lebsack 2024
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains