Initially this guide displays common flowers of all colors that are blooming right now in our area. Use the selectors to view rare species, to view flowers blooming any time, to restrict the output to a certain color, or to search by name.
The Jemez Mountain Herbarium located at PEEC has a specimen collection of over 1,000 plant species that are found in the Jemez Mountain region. This guide was developed as a subset of this collection to help in the identification of the most prevalent flowering plants in Los Alamos County. Most of the plants shown here are native to the area, though a few were introduced to the region.
Monocot and both simple and composite flowering dicots are covered in this guide. This information is included in each description and potentially makes it easier to identify the different plants.
- monocot – seed has 1 embryonic leaf; flower parts com in multiples of 3; leaves have parallel veins
- dicot – seed has 1 embryonic leaves; flower parts com in multiples of 4 or 5; leaves have scattered veins
- simple flower – single, symmetric flowers; usually 3 to 6 petals that emerge from the flower center
- composite flower – multiple, tiny flowers arranged on a single base, typically rays around a disc; each tiny flower has its own seed
Most of the plants represented here are classified as forb/herb which are plants without significant woody growth. However, some flowering shrubs and trees have been included. Many of the later can also be found in the PEEC Tree Guide. This guide does not include any noxious weeds from the area. These are covered in the PEEC Invasive Plant Guide.
You can get additional information on local blooms by joining PEEC Wild Plants. More detailed descriptions can be found in Plants of the Jemez Mountains Volumes 2 and 3, which are available in the PEEC gift shop.
Flower References
American Southwest Plants
Annotated Checklist and Database for Vascular Plants of the Jemez Mountains
Colorado Rocky Mountain Wildflowers
Flora of North America
Foxx, T., Martin, C., and Hoard, D., 2018 Plants of the Jemez Mountains Volume 2: Wildflowers: Showy Monocots and Common Dicots.
Foxx, T., Martin, C., and Hoard, D., 2019 Plants of the Jemez Mountains Volume 3: Composites.
eNature
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
National Garden Association
Native Plants Society of New Mexico
New Mexico Flora
Rocky Mountain Flora
Southwest Desert Flora
Wildflowers of the United States
US Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Services
US Forest Service
Subject Area Experts (all guides)
Steve Cary (butterflies)
Beth Cortright (insects)
Terry Foxx (invasive plants)
Leslie Hansen (mammals)
Richard Hansen (fish, mammals)
Dorothy Hoard (butterflies, trees)
Chick Keller (flowers, herbarium)
Shari Kelley (geology)
Kirt Kempter (geology)
Garth Tietjen (reptiles)
David Yeamans (birds)
Web Development and Content Management
Pat Bacha
Jennifer Macke
Graham Mark
Akkana Peck
Contact
Please contact us for local nature questions and sightings. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions to our guides.
For more information about local nature, please visit our Nature Blog or subscribe to PEEC This Week.
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Showing 51 of 179 flowers.
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Lena Zappia  Photo: Chick Keller |  Fetid GoosefootDYGR (Dysphania graveolens, Chenopodium graveolens)Family: Amaranthaceae (Amaranths) Size: up to 20 in (51 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual Blooms: Sep 18 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; greenish-yellow; elongated, inconspicuous terminal clusters; no distinction between petal and sepals (tepals) Leaf: dicot; alternate arrangement with 1 leaf per node; lobed; toothed; aromatic and red in autumn Fruit: dry, spherical capsules that do not split open when ripe Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- in shade of pines and junipers or occasionally in open dry plains and ridge tops Stems of the Fetid Goosefoot are erect with short hairs. The stems and branches turn color to bright red in fall. Calyx and leaves may have yellow dots of a resinous material. The plant is thought to have special powers by many Southwest native peoples. The Zunis carried it for protection again lightening while the Navajos used it to protect them in warfare. Info Photos Distribution Weed Guide |
 Photo: Kathleen Sayce  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Patrick Alexander |  Nodding OnionALCE2 (Allium cernuum)Family: Amaryllidaceae (Amaryllis) Size: 12 - 18 in (30 - 46 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 27 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; pink or occasionally white; tiny bell-shaped blossoms in a loose nodding cluster Leaf: monocot; fragrant; long, narrow, and upright Fruit: spherical crested fruits that open to reveal brown seeds Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- dry woods, rock outcroppings, prairies Typical location: Valle Canyon The plant has slender conical bulbs which taper directly into several grass-like leaves. Each bulb bears a single flower stem which terminates in a number of short flower stalks. Leaves and bulbs were once eaten but currently considered to be of little culinary value. Attracts hairstreak butterflies. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin | Golden Draba, Golden WhitlowgrassDRAU (Draba aurea)Family: Arabideae (Mustards) Size: up to 8 in (20 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 11 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; yellow; individual small flowers with 4 oblong petals with 4 sepals; compact flowerhead with up to 50 flowers Leaf: dicot; smooth-edged or toothed; very hairy; grow as a rosette at the base and along the stems Fruit: purplish green, hairy pods that are angled upwards Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- montane, alpine, subalpine, meadows, woodlands Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail The Golden Draba was named by Martin Vahl in 1806 from a specimen collected in Greenland. The native range of this plant covers Arizona and New Mexico north through all of Canada and includes Alaska and Greenland. Plants in the genus Draba are commonly known as whitlow-grasses. However, they are not related to true grasses. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Patrick Alexander | Ragleaf Bahia, Wirey Bahia, Sunray DaisyBADI (Amauriopsis dissecta, Bahia dissecta)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 30 in (76 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial, perennial Blooms: Aug 18 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; yellow; rounded petals that are slightly notched; ray florets overlap and slightly shorter than the central disc florets Leaf: dicot; small, oblong, and deeply lobed; mostly located near base of stem Fruit: Ragleaf Bahia has an open, airy growth pattern with spindly, branching and erect stems. The upper ends of the stems often curve, pointing downwards. Augustus Fendler was the first to collect this species near the Mora River in New Mexico about 1846. Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil, pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- foothills, montane, disturbed areas, meadows Ragleaf Bahia has an open, airy growth pattern with spindly, branching and erect stems. The upper ends of the stems often curve, pointing downwards. Augustus Fendler was the first to collect this species near the Mora River in New Mexico about 1846. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin |  Tasselflower Brickellbush, Mountain BrickellbushBRGR (Brickellia grandiflora)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 38 in (30 - 97 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Aug 25 - Oct 20 Flower: composite; pale yellow to light green; thin, tubular disc florets; stamen and style protrude beyond florets; clusters hanging from short branches Leaf: dicot; slightly hairy with enlarged gland at tip; triangular leaves with pointed tip Fruit: small, dark, bristly capsules Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer --- rocky hillsides, shaded forests, dry slopes, canyons, banks, cliffs, roadsides Tasselflower Brickellbush is often overlooked but can be found if one looks in its favorite rocky habitat. The plant takes its name from Dr. John Brickell, an early American physician and naturalist. Brickellia grandiflora is distinguished from others in the same genus but its leaf shape and the the nodding of its flower clusters. It is a host for the rust fungus Puccini’s subdecora. A tea made from this plant has 3 uses: lowering blood sugar, stimulating stomach secretion, and stimulating bile synthesis. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Jennifer Macke  Photo: Mary Carol Williams  Photo: twr61 |  Hoary Tansyaster, Purple Aster, Hoary AsterMACA2 (Dieteria canescens, Machaeranthera canescens)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 40 in (102 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial, perennial Blooms: Sep 10 - Nov 07 Flower: composite; blue/purple and yellow; ray florets appear as if floating; numerous bracts below Leaf: dicot; small and oblong; covered with fine hair; serrated edges Fruit: achene (one-seeded fruit) topped with bristles Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil, pinyon-juniper --- foothills, montane, subalpine The stems are slender, green, and erect. The daisy-like flowers are commonly found with numerous insects. The species of canescens is Latin for “becoming gray” and is used to describe the abundance of hairs on many of the plants. This is also reflected in the “hoary” portion of many of the plant’s common names. However, some Dieteria canescens are hairless. Info Photos Distribution Weed Guide |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin |  Spreading Fleabane, Rough Fleabane, Branching Fleabane, Fleabane DaisyERDI4 (Erigeron divergens)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 5 - 30 in (13 - 76 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial Blooms: Sep 03 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; varies from white to pale pink up to 150 ray florets; twice that number of yellow disc florets; buds are deep pink Leaf: dicot; covered in short, thin grey-white hairs; leaf color and dimensions can be variable Fruit: capsules with scales and a sparse number of hairs Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, mountain meadow, oak woodland, pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- foothills, montane, meadows, disturbed areas Spreading Fleabane has many branches with dense hair and tends to grow in open cluster. This species of fleabane can display agamospermy, reproducing asexually via seed. The Navajos had many medical uses for the plant. Whereas, the Kiowa people considered it a good luck charm. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Holly Giorgio-Dundon |  Sprucefir Fleabane, Regal Daisy, Splendid DaisyEREX4 (Erigeron eximius)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 24 in (61 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Aug 01 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; purple to white with yellow; flowering stalk has between 1 to 5 heads with numerous disc florets each with 40 to 80 ray florets Leaf: dicot; large number of broad leaves around base; lesser numbers along the stem; edges variable from smooth to small teeth to large teeth Fruit: hairy archenes with long bristles Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer --- montane, woodlands Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail The plant spreads by underground roots producing a mass of leaves. However, very few of the leaf clusters produce flowers. It is often overlooked, even though, it can be abundant in an area. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Susan Punjabi  Photo: Chick Keller |  Trailing Fleabane, Whiplash DaisyERFL (Erigeron flagellaris)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 8 in (20 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial Blooms: May 30 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; white and yellow with blush of pink; as many as 125 white ray florets; numerous yellow disc florets Leaf: dicot; light green; narrow; numerous arranged in clusters Fruit: tufted single seeds Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, meadows Typical location: Water Canyon Plant sends out runners along the surface of the ground to colonize large areas., forming extensive mats of clones. Tied bunches of plants used for brooms. Leaves used as a medicine and fumigant. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Nat Warning | Aspen Fleabane, Showy FleabaneERSP4 (Erigeron speciosus)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 40 in (102 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 12 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; ray florets vary from lavender to white with yellow disc florets; ray florets are long and narrow; there may be up to 150 per flowerhead Leaf: dicot; lnceolate leaves with a prominent vein Fruit: 2-veined capsule Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- subalpine, montane, open areas There are six common (and a few more uncommon) Erigeron in the area. This species is one of the most common. It has certainly earned one of its common names (Showy Fleabane) with its abundant display of flowers. The stems are reddish-green and usually hairless. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel |  Three-nerve Fleabane, Hairy Showy Daisy, Threenerve FleabaneERSU2 (Erigeron subtrinervis)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 36 in (91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Aug 01 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; shades of blue/purple with yellow center; 100 to 150 thin ray florets around a large number of disc florets; there may be a single flowerhead or up to 20 in a flat-topped array Leaf: dicot; lance-shaped leaves with fine hairs along the margins and both surfaces; 1 central prominent vein and 2 others Fruit: capsule sparsely covered in bristles Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- montane, subalpine, meadows Erigeron subtrinervis is distinguished from others of its genus by the fact it is the only species where the surfaces of its leaves have fine hairs. The plant has a short, woody base with a large number of leafy stems. It, like other Fleabanes, derived its common name from the belief that the dried pants would repel fleas. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Dan Beckman | Running Fleabane, Running Daisy, Tracy's FleabaneERCO28 (Erigeron tracyi, Erigeron colomexicanus )Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 6 - 12 in (15 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial Blooms: Feb 01 - Dec 01 Flower: composite; white with yellow center, may have purple color on edges; a single flowerhead per stem made up of 100 ray florets and over 200 disc florets Leaf: dicot; basal leaves close together and wider toward the tip; stem leaves few and narrow; hairy Fruit: archenes topped with bristles Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- foothills, open areas, and woods Typical location: Red Dot Trail Spreads via runners during summer and fall. Similar in overall appearance to Spreading Fleabane but has runner similar to Whiplash Daisy. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Akkana Peck  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel |  Indian Blanket, Firewheel, Indian Blanketflower, SundanceGAPU (Gaillardia pulchella)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 18 - 24 in (46 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; annual, biennial, perennial Blooms: May 05 - Oct 15 Flower: composite; ray florets red to orange at base with yellow tips; sometimes all yellow or orange; disc florets are reddish-brown Leaf: dicot; alternate arrangement; long, wide and toothed Fruit: seedhead with pyramid-shaped cypselae and multiple hairs and scales Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil, pinyon-juniper --- roadsides, meadows, dry plains, open areas Typical location: White Rock This is a hardy plant, tolerating heat and dryness. Many varieties are popular for cultivation providing a showy splash of color to the garden. The plant is favored by honeybees and produces a dark reddish buttery tasting honey. It also attracts butterflies. The roots can be used to make a tea. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Becky Shankland  Photo: Alex Abair  Photo: Ellen Hildebrandt | Broom Snakeweed, Matchbrush, Broomweed, KindlingweedGUSA2 (Gutierrezia sarothrae)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 8 - 28 in (20 - 71 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Sep 01 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; yellow; ray florets that are not symmetrical; tiny tuffs growing at the end of branches; Leaf: dicot; yellow-green; thread-like; lower leaves may have dropped by the time of flowering shed Fruit: oval and covered with chaffy scales; seeds brown and hairy Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- semi-desert, foothills, openings, roadsides Its name is derived by the fact that the dried stems were originally used as a broom. This plant is often confused with Rabbitbrush (genus Chrysothamus), but the two can be distinguished by their flowers (Broom Snakeweed - ray flowers; Rabbitbush - tubular flowers). Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig martin | Showy GoldeneyeHEMU3 (Heliomeris multiflora)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 48 in (30 - 122 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jul 19 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; yellow; 5 to 14 ray florets with a small notch at the tip; 50+ disc florets; disc florets dome as mature Leaf: dicot; long, thin, lance-shaped; strong center vein with lesser veins on the edges; may have small teeth Fruit: black or gray capsules Status: native; locally common Habitat: mixed conifer --- foothills, montane, subalpine One plant can produce 25 or more flower heads. The flowers start out greenish, gradually turning yellow. The stems are reddish, with faint markings and short hairs. It grows in bush clumps and can be quite spectacular in the fall. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: M Feaver |  Hairy False Goldenaster, False Hairy Golden-Aster; Hairy False Golden AsterHEVI4 (Heterotheca villosa)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 36 in (30 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 27 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; yellow with orange center; branched cluster of up to 15 flowers; 10 to 20 ray florets; 20 to 50 disc florets; corollas have a 5-lobed lip Leaf: dicot; greyish-green; small, narrow, and lance-shaped; grow densely; often have wavy edge; alternate arrangement Fruit: head of dry seeds with tufts of light brown hairs Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- semi-desert, foothills, montane, openings, disturbed areas Typical location: Quemazon Trail Hairy False Goldenaster blooms throughout the summer until snowfall with the flowers giving a bushy appearance. Its species name of villosa means “covered with soft hairs” flowing from the fact that the stems are covered with rough, grayish hairs. The plant has a spicy-sharp sage aroma. There are two different shaped seeds which is unusual for sunflowers. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Barbara Calef  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Ellen Hildebrandt |  Dotted Blazing Star, Dotted Gayfeather, Dotted LiatrisLIPU (Liatris punctata)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 32 in (81 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Aug 18 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; pink to purple; long spike-like clusters; 3 to 8 star-like disc florets with long style Leaf: dicot; narrow and grass-like; become thinner as ascend the stem; covered in short white hairs and dots of resin; flowers appear in the top third to half of the stem Fruit: small dark seed with a tuft of light brown hair Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- forests, shrub, woodland, prairie, grassland Typical location: Quemazon Trail This plant is drought-tolerant with deep roots and fire-tolerant being able to respout from its rhizome. It is also considered to be an ornamental plant. It is eaten by livestock and similar wild large mammals. Many butterflies favor its nectar. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin | Mountain Tail-leaf, Mountain Tailleaf, Mountain TaperleafPECA10 (Pericome caudata, Pericome glandulosa)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 36 in (91 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Aug 24 - Oct 20 Flower: composite; yellow — only disc florets; arrayed in leafy-braced, compound clusters Leaf: dicot; simple, often triangular-shaped with a long point; potentially with a few large teeth or sharp lobes Fruit: oblong and flat; black with a fringe of scales Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- common along mountain road banks Typical location: Pajarito Canyon Mountain Tail-leaf is usually a large rounded bush found in a sunny place. The plant has a pungent, goat-like odor, prompting the early settlers of New Mexico to call it “yerba de chivato” or “herb of the he-goat”. It has be found around archaelogical sites in Norther Arizona. and has long been used by the Navajo for a variety of ceremonial and medicinal purposes such as for headaches and toothaches. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Becky Shankland  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Ellen Hildebrandt | Woolly Paperflower, Paperflower, Paper DaisyPSTA (Psilostrophe tagetina)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 4 - 12 in (10 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 25 - Oct 15 Flower: composite; yellow; compact clusters of flowerheads on short stems; 3 or 4 yellow ray florets, notched at the tip, and 6 to 12 disc florets Leaf: dicot; greyish-green with long, soft hairs; arranged alongs the base and stems Fruit: capsules usually smooth but sometimes with very fine hairs Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- Often seen along road edges. Typical location: White Rock The flowers remain for several months and eventually turn papery given the plant its common name. Different Native American tribes have used the plant in a variety of ways from treating a stomachache and snake bite to making it into a yellow dye. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Mary Carol Williams  Photo: Ellen Hildebrandt | Mexican Hat, Long-headed Coneflower, Prairie ConeflowerRACO3 (Ratibida columnifera)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 18 - 36 in (46 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 30 - Oct 20 Flower: composite; orange, red and yellow; 4 to 12 droopy, streaked ray florets with a notch at the top; long cone covered in dark disc florets; flowerheads are high above the leaves on ribbed stalks Leaf: dicot; long; deeply lobed; toothless with stiff hairs Fruit: cone develops numerous tiny, winged, brown seeds Status: native; locally common Habitat: disturbed soil --- prairie, plains, meadows, pastures, roadsides Typical location: Bypass Road to Ski Hill The Mexican Hat received its common name from the fact that it somewhat resembles the shape of a slender sombrero. It is native to the state but not to Los Alamos. It is smaller than most other coneflowers but has a longer cone and rays that are about the same length as the cone. The Zunis used an infusion of the whole plant as an emetic. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Yvonne Keller  Photo: Mary Carole Williams | Black-eyed Susan, Brown-eyed SusanRUHI2 (Rudbeckia hirta)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 24 in (30 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 20 Flower: composite; bright yellow with dark center; 8 to 21 ray florets Leaf: dicot; green, oval and covered with hairs Fruit: brown achene with numerous small black seeds Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- open areas in forests Typical location: Pajarito Upper Canyon Plant blooms continuously up until a harsh frost. Can be considered a short-lived perennial. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Craig Martin | Broomlike Ragwort, Many-headed Senecio, Broom Groundsel, Many-headed GroundselSESP3 (Senecio spartioides)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 8 - 36 in (20 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Aug 25 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; yellow; 5-8 ray florets; initially rounded but later becoming longer; erect, flat-topped clusters of many flowerheads Leaf: dicot; long and narrow; divided with linear segments Fruit: achenes topped with small bristles Status: native; locally common Habitat: mixed conifer --- semi-desert, foothills, shrublands, and sandy, gravelly openings Typical location: Trail across Flats to Red Dot Trail Broomlike Ragwort grows in an open, unbranched manner with many stems. The plant spreads from the base. Individual plants are spaced about 3 ft (1 m) apart. The lower leaves wither by the time the flowers open making the plant look dead on the bottom but full of life on the top. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Carrie Clinton  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Mt. Albert Goldenrod, Smooth Goldenrod, Narrow Goldenrod, Sticky GoldenrodSOSI3 (Solidago simplex)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 32 in (81 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Aug 02 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; yellow; wide, broad clusters; number of flowerheads vary widely; densely packed on all sides of the stem Leaf: dicot; large, toothed; grow mostly around the base; stem leaves smaller and narrower Fruit: capsules with dark ridges and stiff bristles Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- montane, subalpine, alpine, meadows Typical location: Valle Canyon Flowers are clustered in such a way as to give the plant a soft, fuzzy appearance. There are sticky, yellowish glands at the bottom of the flowers that are not found in similar species. Seeds are eaten by many different songbirds. Deer and rabbits occasionally feed on the foliage. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Don Rideout | Threenerve Goldenrod, Sparse GoldenrodSOVE6 (Solidago velutina)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 6 - 30 in (15 - 76 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Aug 18 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; yellow; 6 to 12 short rays with 5 to 17 disc florets; clusters are “wand-shaped” with up to 500 flowerheads per cluster Leaf: dicot; oval-shaped; pointing upwards with a light covering of hair; 3 prominent veins Fruit: small capsules; covered with short, dense hairs Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, meadows, woodland openings Typical location: Entrance to Pajarito Canyon The Threenerve Goldenrod tends to arch slightly and have flowers that grow on one side of the stem. The plants form groupings of diffuse clones. There are several recognized subspecies of Solidago velutina. The genus Solidago come from the Latin meaning “whole” or “solid” and refers to this group of plant’s supposed ability to heal. Infusions from the plant have been used to treat a variety of illnesses. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Sam Kieschnick  Photo: Craig Martin | Wright's Goldenrod, Bushy GoldenrodSOWR (Solidago wrightii, Solidago bigelovii)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 8 - 40 in (20 - 102 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Aug 18 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; yellow ray and disc florets; more disc florets than ray; arranged in elongated clusters with up to 140 flowerheads Leaf: dicot; lance-shaped with short stalks; smooth overall; alternative arrangement Fruit: brown capsules with bristles that are minutely barbed Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, meadows, woodland openings Typical location: Bayo Bench Trail Wright’s Goldrod is notable as a tall, erect plant with numerous large sprays of flowers and multiple stems that come up from the base. The leaves of this plant are broader than on other goldenrods and only has a single vein, though it is difficult to see. It grows at an elevation of 3,200 ft (1000 m) to 8,800 ft (2,700 m). Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Joe Bartok  Photo: Mary Krieger | White Heath Aster, White Aster, White Prairie Aster, White Heath American-AsterSYERE (Symphyotrichum ericoides)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 36 in (30 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Sep 10 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; white with yellow center; small, daisy-like flowers; organized into large groups that spread into one-sided dense sprays Leaf: dicot; soft green but darken with age; alternate arrangement; linear with smooth edges Fruit: little seeds with tufts of white hairs Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- foothills, montane, woodland openings, fields, roadsides White Heath Aster spreads by underground runners to form large patches. Its hairy stems are green initially but usually become brown as the plant matures. The lower leaves often fall off before the plant flowers. The plant has an overall “heath-like” appearance due to the needle-like bracts on the flowering stems and its distinctive narrow, linear leaves. It is attractive to butterflies. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Kate McConnell | Smooth Blue Aster, Smooth AsterSYLA3 (Symphyotrichum laeve)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 36 in (30 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Aug 26 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; blue to purple with yellow center; blowers arranged in clusters; 13 to 23 ray florets; 19 to 33 disc florets which start out yellow and eventually turn purplish Leaf: dicot; alternate arrangement and usually hairless; vary in shape and may or may not be toothed Fruit: capsules with bristles at the tip; eventually form hairs like dandelion seeds Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- prairies, rocky glades, dry open woods, roadsides The Smooth Blue Aster has hairless, waxy, reddish stems and forms clumps. Its root system is rhizomatous with older plants potentially developing woody caudices. Sometime offsets are procured via rhizomes. The flowers attract bees, wasps, and flies. Other insects are attracted to the leaves. In addition, mammalian herbivores like rabbits, cattle and sheep will eat the foliage. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Terry Foxx |  Stiff Greenthread, Hopi TeaTHFI (Thelesperma filifolium)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 4 - 16 in (10 - 41 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual Blooms: May 01 - Oct 30 Flower: composite; yellow ray flowers; reddish disc florets; Leaf: dicot; thin green leaves that are thread-like scattered along the stems Fruit: capsules with tufted hairs Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil --- dry hills and plains Typical location: Canyon Rim Trail paved section east end parking When budding, the flower heads droop but stand upright when open. The plant is used to make an herbal tea and is currently cultivated on the Colorado Plateau in New Mexico for this purpose. The seeds are eaten by some birds and the plant is larval food for the sulphur butterfly. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig MartinRaphael Mazor | Townsend's Daisy, Rocky Mountain Townsend Daisy, Tall Townsend DaisyTOEX (Townsendia eximia)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 8 - 12 in (20 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 27 - Oct 20 Flower: composite; purple with yellow center; showy flowerhead 50+ ray florets and 100+ disc florets Leaf: dicot; dense clusters of basal leaves; widely-spaced, alternate spatula-shaped narrow stem leaves Fruit: capsules with tufts of forked hair Status: native; locally common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- gravely banks, canyon walls, woodlands Typical location: Quemazon Trail Unlike other Townsendia species, Townsendia eximia grows upright and has purple flowers rather than white or pink. Its range is primarily confined to Northern and Central New Mexico and far Southern Colorado. Despite its limited range, it appears to be ecologically secure. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Ellen Hildebrandt |  Golden Crownbeard, Cowpen Daisy, Butter DaisyVEEN (Verbesina encelioides)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 10 - 50 in (25 - 127 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual Blooms: Sep 10 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; from yellow to orange-yellow to brown; typically 12 broad yellow petals with two lengthwise grooves and notches at the tip; 80 to 150 tubular disc florets; usually singular flowerheads Leaf: dicot; large blue-green leaves; toothed edges and covered with short hairs; opposite arrangement on stem but alternate arrangement near base Fruit: brownish, narrow obovate achene or one-seeded fruit Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil --- open areas, sunny, dry conditions Typical location: White Rock Golden Crownbeard is often considered to be a weed but is an important medicinal plant. It has anti-inflammatory properties but is also one of the most potent allergens around. The plant is upright with many branched stems. It is commonly found on disturbed ground and can color miles of roadside. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: David Schiferl  Photo: Craig Martin |  Bluebell Bellflower, HarebellCARO2 (Campanula rotundifolia)Family: Campanulaceae (Bellflowers) Size: 4 - 15 in (10 - 38 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 08 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; blue to purple; racemes with many flowers on slender pedicels; 5 petals fused in bell-shape Leaf: dicot; rounded to heart-shaped; usually slightly toothed with prominent pores Fruit: grows out of the flower into a nodding capsule; splits open when ripe Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- rocky slopes, meadows, woods, roadsides Typical location: Canada Bonita Common at a variety of elevations. They are usually found in small groups or larger colonies. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Alex Abair  Photo: Christy King | Woodland Pinedrops, PinedropsPTAN2 (Pterospora andromedea)Family: Ericaceae (Heathers) Size: up to 24 in (61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; yellow with red; egg=shaped; hang in a long raceme Leaf: dicot; no true leaves; sometimes scales growing on the flower stalk Fruit: small rounded capsules; brown and dry at maturity; seeds escape through slits in the sides of the fruit Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- montane, confer woodlands Woodland Pinedrops have no chlorophyll, rather the plant is a parasite on mycorrhizal fungi which in turn parasitize conifer roots. Its stems which often form clusters are reddish-brown plant and covered with glandular hairs. Stems only grow for one year, but remain for several years as dried stalks. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: scottmo  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin | Nevada Peavine, White Peavine, Arizona PeavineLALAL3 (Lathyrus lanszwertii var. leucanthus)Family: Fabaceae (Peas) Size: 12 - 24 in (30 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb, vine; perennial Blooms: May 30 - Oct 25 Flower: simple; white with a small mount of pink; grow in clusters from long flower stalks Leaf: dicot; two types of leaves: elliptical (higher elevation) versus narrow, linear (lower elevation) Fruit: boat-shaped pod Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- montane, subalpine, woodlands Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail, Valle Canyon Grows from 4,000 ft (1.2 km) to timberline with elevation influencing leaf shape. Like other legumes, fixes nitrogen. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Morgan Stickrod |  Pleated Gentian, Prairie Gentian, Rocky Mountain Bottle GentianGEAF (Gentiana affinis)Family: Gentianacae (Gentians) Size: 6 - 16 in (15 - 41 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Aug 21 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; purple with white; closely growing clusters of funnel-shaped flowers; 5 lobes; green center and dots Leaf: dicot; short, thin; growing between the flower heads Fruit: cylindrical capsules with short stripes; seeds winged Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mountain meadow, ponderosa --- wet meadows, montane, subalpine, alpine Typical location: Canada Bonita, Dot Grant Trail This plant is often overlooked as it frequently grows among grasses and other tall plants. However, there may be dozen of plants scattered widely over an open area. The plant is distinguished by it maroon colored stem. New plants will sprout from the roots of older plants. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo:  Photo: Chick Keller |  Autumn Dwarf Gentian, Little GentianGEAM3 (Gentianella amarella)Family: Gentianaceae (Gentians) Size: up to 30 in (76 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial Blooms: Aug 02 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; shades of purple and white; 5 lobes with 5 stamens; circular group of long white hairs; grows in small clusters at the tip of the stem Leaf: dicot; elliptical to lanceolate leaves with a purple tinge; hairless; opposite pairs with 5 veins Fruit: 2-part capsule; seeds smooth and slightly flattened Status: native; uncommon Habitat: montane, subalpine, woodlands, meadows, open areas Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail The Autumn Dwarf Gentian is found throughout the Western United States and across Canada to the East Coast. It is also native throughout Northern Europe. Gentianella amarella is one of the gentian species that is a source of medicinal gentian root. Gentian is a bitter herb used even today for the treatment of digestive disorders and general debility. In the past it was used to treat malaria. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin |  Redstem Stork's Bill, Redstem Filaree, Pinweed, CranesbillERCI6 (Erodium cicutarium)Family: Geraniacea (Geraniums) Size: 6 - 12 in (15 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial Blooms: Jan 02 - Dec 30 Flower: simple; pink, often with dark spots; arranged in loose clusters with 10 filaments Leaf: dicot; deeply cleft; fern-like Fruit: long, narrow, pointed seed pods Status: naturalized plant; common Habitat: disturbed soil --- desert scrub, grasslands, oak woodlands, semi-desert grassland, lawns, gardens; more common at lower elevations It was introduced into California from the Mediterranean Basin in the eighteenth century. The entire plant is edible and resembles a parsley when picked young. It is considered to be a weed in some areas. Info Photos Distribution Weed Guide |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: ajileong5 | Pineywoods Geranium, Purple GeraniumGECA3 (Geranium caespitosum)Family: Geraniaceae (Geraniums) Size: up to 18 in (46 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 01 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; pink or purple; 5 elliptic to obovate petals; dark veins Leaf: dicot; deep cuts and 5 to 7 rounded lobes; lined with large teeth Fruit: long thin capsule with 1 seed Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, woodlands Typical location: Valle Canyon Each plant only has a few flowers and tends to lean and sprawl. Can be seen trailside hidden by grasses with its reddish, short-hairy stems. Parts of the plant have been used as an astringent and to treat sores. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Richardson's Geranium, White CranesbillGERI (Geranium richardsonii)Family: Geraniaceae (Geraniums) Size: 8 - 32 in (20 - 81 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 01 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; white or purple with dark purple veins; 5 septals and 5 pointed petals Leaf: dicot; palmate-shaped with 5 segments Fruit: small, straight body with a short style Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer --- foothills, montane, subalpine, woodlands, meadows Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail This geranium is found just below tree line. Its size is sensitive to the amount of moisture it receives. It grows from a tough, woody taproot and will develop rhizomes as it ages. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Alex Abair  Photo: Mitch Manford | Common Selfheal, Heal-allPRVU (Prunella vulgaris)Family: Lamiaceae (Mints) Size: 2 - 12 in (5 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 22 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; shades of purple, occasionally white; long, fused tube; 2 lips with lower lip toothed Leaf: dicot; opposite arrangement; oval to lance-shaped with a blunt tip; hairy and shallowly toothed Fruit: yellowish-brown with dark stripes; 4-sectioned capsule Status: native; uncommon Habitat: riparian --- montane, subalpine, woodlands, meadows Typical location: Canada Bonita This is a very small, slender mint that is often missed. The plant is known as “heal-all” due to its traditional use in healing several ailments such as wounds and throat infections. The leaves can be eaten either cooked or raw. A cold water infusion makes a refreshing drink. The plant propagates both by seed and by creeping stems that root at the nodes. It makes a good ground cover. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Akkana Peck |  Scarlet Globemallow, Caliche Globemallow, Cowboy's DelightSPCO (Sphaeralcea coccinea)Family: Malvaceae (Mallows) Size: 4 - 16 in (10 - 41 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; biennial, perennial Blooms: Apr 22 - Oct 15 Flower: simple; red to orange; overall saucer-shaped; 5 notched, broad petals in a terminal cluster Leaf: dicot; palm-like leaves covered in a soft, velvet layer of hair Fruit: schizocarp with up to 14 single-seeded carpels Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- semi-desert, foothills, disturbed areas, woodlands Typical location: Red Dot Trail The Scarlet Globemallow spreads by rhizomes and may lean over or stay close to the ground since its stems are not sturdy. It is covered in dense hairs. Deer and other wildlife will graze on the plant, while birds and small animals eat the fruit. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Fendler's Globemallow, Desert Globemallow, Thicket GlobemallowSPFEE (Sphaeralcea fendleri)Family: Malvaceae (Mallows) Size: 36 - 48 in (91 - 122 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jul 14 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; various shades of orange with yellow center; hibiscus-like with 5 petals and 5 septas that are fully opened Leaf: dicot; gray-green with fine star-shaped hairs; alternate arrangement; lobed or veined with scalloped margins Fruit: spherical, dehiscent, pie-shaped capsule that splits into segments Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- desert, upper elevation foothill canyons, mountain Sphaeralcea fendleri can be distinguished from other Globemallows by the fact that it does not display distinctive cup-shaped flowers but rather fully opened petals that do not overlap or touch. This plant is an important food source for Bighorn Sheep and it is likely that its large seeds are eaten rodents. Like others Globemallows, Fendler’s produces a mucilaginous compound that can soothe skin irritations and insect bites. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: James Bailey  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: hikingsandiego | Hooker's Evening Primrose, Western Evening Primose, Hooker's Evening-PrimroseOEEL (Oenothera elata)Family: Onagraceae (Evening Primroses) Size: up to 36 in (91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; yellow, turning orange when wilted the morning after opening; 4 heart-shaped petals with protruding stamens; borne atop long stems Leaf: dicot; grey-green; white veins; sparse hairs; form a basal rosette Fruit: narrow, long capsules that taper upward; reddish-brown seeds Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil, ponderosa --- foothills, montane, wet meadows, roadsides Typical location: Los Alamos This is one of the largest and showiest of the evening primroses. The flowers are fragrant and attract many moths and butterflies. The plant produces a large number of seeds which in turn attract a large variety of seed-eating birds. The Zuni people used a poultice of the powdered flower to treat swellings. In addition, various parts of the plant have been used for the treatment of colds. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig martin  Photo: Ellen Hildebrandt | Scarlet Beeblossom, Scarlet Gaura, Scarlet EveningprimroseGACO5 (Oenothera suffrutescens)Family: Onagraceae (Evening Primroses) Size: up to 12 in (30 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jul 14 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; white to pink; four spoon-shaped petals that start out as white and turn pink with ages; four long, stiff sepals which open and fall outward; spike inflorescence Leaf: dicot; long, linear; margins wavey; alternate arrangement Fruit: short, woody ice-cream cone-shaped capsule Status: native; uncommon Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- dry prairies, roadsides, disturbed sites Colony forming plant with several stems branched near the base. The color change in the flowers can occur as quickly as over a single day. This plant is found across much of North America, in particular the western and central regions. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin | Wholeleaf Indian Paintbrush, Squawfleather, Southwestern Indian Paintbrush, Cola de BorrejoCAIN14 (Castilleja integra)Family: Orobanchaceae (Broomrapes) Size: up to 16 in (41 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Apr 18 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; Red or orange specialized leaves or bracts form on spikes; flowers are a small green tubes protruding above the bracts Leaf: dicot; Narrow, unlobed, undivided; tinges of light purple on some Fruit: capsule filled with numerous seed Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- foothills, montane, shrublands, woodlands Typical location: Canyon Rim Trail paved section, Quemazon Trail The common name "wholeleaf" refers to the lack of lobes on the leaves and bracts. The plant’s roots will grow and penetrate those of other plants in order to obtain nutrients. The stems of the plant have white hairs. The Zuni used to mix the roots with minerals to make a black dye. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Terry Foxx |  Wyoming Indian Paintbrush, Wyoming PaintbrushCALI4 (Castilleja linariifolia)Family: Orobanchaceae (Broomrapes) Size: up to 40 in (102 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; red bracts cut deeply on one side; yellow-green flower tubes, often hidden except for the tip; torch-like spikes Leaf: dicot; narrow and unlobed; edges folded upward Fruit: ovoid capsule with many tiny seeds Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- foothills, montane, shrublands, woodlands Typical location: Middle Quemazon Trail on north side This species of paintbrush is distinguished from other paintbrushes by preferring a lower elevation and having narrower leaves. It is the state flower of Wyoming and grows across most of the west. Its roots grow until they touch the roots of other plants. Then the paintbrush’s roots will penetrate the roots of the other plants, taking nutrients from the host plant. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: PEEC  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: twr61 |  Giant Red Indian Paintbrush, Scarlet Indian Paintbrush, Meadow PaintbrushCAMI12 (Castilleja miniata)Family: Orobanchaceae (Broomrapes) Size: up to 20 in (51 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; green with red bracts; large red structures along the top part of the tall stems are modified leaves; flower is small tubes at the top Leaf: dicot; fairly wide; pointed; 3 veins Fruit: oblong capsule with numerous seeds; splits lengthwise to expose seeds Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer --- montane, subalpine, meadows Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail The plant is one of the most common species of this large genus. The plant is usually unbranched and the upper red bracts are often cut into three segments. Though the upper bracts are mostly red, they can be seen in pink or orange. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Russell Pfau  Photo: Nathan Taylor | Beardlip Penstemon, Red Beardtongue, Scarlet BuglerPEBA2 (Penstemon barbatus)Family: Plantaginaceae (Speedwells) Size: 24 - 36 in (61 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 08 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; red; tubular flowers with two lips; lower lip divided into 3 lobes and bent backwards; flowers dropped slightly; arranged in pairs Leaf: dicot; slender, long linear to oval; less frequent on the upper stems Fruit: capsules that split open longitudinally to release several brown seeds Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- open, rocky soil in mixed conifer forests Typical location: Dot Grant Trail Penstemon barbatus is one of the few red flowered penstemons. It gets its species name from ‘barbatus’ meaning bearded which is an allusion to the hairs into the throat of the flower. The leaves and stems may have a pale whitish covering. The plant has been used ceremonially, as a decoration, and for treatment of a variety of issues. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: scottmo  Photo: scottmo  Photo: twr61 | Scarlet Gilia, Skyrocket Gilia, SkunkflowerIPAG (Ipomopsis aggregata)Family: Polemoniaceae (Phlox) Size: up to 12 in (30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 27 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; red; long, trumpet-shaped and thin; corolla opens out with 5 pinted lobes, forming a star shape Leaf: dicot; silver with fine hairs; deeply lobed and concentrated around the base Fruit: capsules with 5 to 10 sees per locule Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- semi-desert, foothills, montane, woodlands, meadows, openings Typical location: Valle Canyon Pronounced “JILL-ee-uh”. Occurs at a range of elevations. It is pollinated most commonly by long-tongued moths and hummingbirds. Its common name of “skyrocket” relates to the fact that the lobes of the flowers curve back as if blown by rocketing through the air. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Alex Abair  Photo: Akkana Peck  Photo: Patrick Alexander |  Flaxflowered Ipomopsis, Flaxflowered GiliaIPLO2 (Ipomopsis longiflora)Family: Polemoniaceae (Phlox) Size: 10 - 40 in (25 - 102 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial Blooms: Jul 15 - Nov 15 Flower: simple; blue, purple, and/or white; long, slender corolla tube with 5 petals each ending in a point Leaf: dicot; grow at intervals along the branches; finely divided; covered with very short hairs Fruit: oval capsules with multiple seeds Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- dry plains, mesas Typical location: Water Canyon Moths are attracted to the flowers at night. When not in flower The plant is often difficult to identify when not in flower as its whisky stems and leaves merge with the grass and other undergrowth. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Josip Loncaric |  Apache Plume, PonilFAPA (Fallugia paradoxa)Family: Rosaceae (Roses) Size: 24 - 72 in (61 - 183 cm) Growth: shrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 06 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; white flowers on the tips of very dense, intertangle branches; 5 petals Leaf: dicot; dark green with silver underneath Fruit: persistent, pink, feathery plumes said to resemble an Apache headdress Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- dry, rocky slopes, open woods, dry washes This multi-branched shrub is deciduous to semi-evergreen with a slender and upright habit. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Rebecca Shankland  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Dakota Mock Vervain, Dakota Verbena, Prairie VerbenaGLBI2 (Glandularia bipinnatifida)Family: Verbenaceae (Verbenas) Size: 9 - 12 in (23 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, perennial Blooms: Mar 10 - Jun 01 and Sep 15 - Oct 15 Flower: simple; pink to purple; grow in rounded clusters Leaf: dicot; finely dissected, into segments; opposite arrangement Fruit: 4 nutlets enclosed in a calyx Status: native; locally common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- semi-desert, open areas Typical location: Red Dot Trail, White Rock Canyon There plants can often can be seen along the trail or in old lava flows. The leaves tend to lean outward from the center as the plant grows and the stems are reddish. Info Photos Distribution |