Family: Asteraceae
Author: DC.
Bibliography: Prodr. 5: 692 (1836)
Year: 1836
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Hemizonia
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: California
Description
Hayfield tarweed, scientifically known as Hemizonia congesta, is an intriguing plant native to the diverse landscapes of California. First described by the renowned botanist Augustin Pyramus de Candolle in 1836, this distinctive species belongs to the extensive Asteraceae family, a group celebrated for its composite flowers and ecological significance.
Characterized by its erect stature and glandular stems, Hemizonia congesta thrives in a variety of habitats, particularly favoring the sun-drenched expanses of hayfields and open meadows. The plant’s inflorescence is notably congested, with numerous small, yellow flowers densely packed together, lending to its common name. These flowers typically bloom in late spring to early summer, drawing the attention of myriad pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects that are vital for the ecosystem.
In addition to its ecological role, Hayfield tarweed exhibits certain adaptive traits that make it a resilient species. Its leaves and stems are often sticky or resinous, possibly as a deterrent to herbivores and a means to reduce water loss, an essential feature for survival in California’s often arid environment.
The importance of Hemizonia congesta extends beyond its immediate ecological contributions. It plays a part in the greater tapestry of California’s native flora, supporting local wildlife and contributing to the biodiversity that makes the region unique. Conservation efforts and further botanical studies could help illuminate more about this species, ensuring that it continues to flourish in its natural habitat for generations to come.
Common Names
Eng: hayfield tarweed
En: Hayfield tarweed
Synonyms
- Hemizonia congesta subsp. typica (Babc. & H.M.Hall)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Oregon (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Oct 14, 2009 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 31, 2022 by bill oconnor (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 24, 2021 by kara paul (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Sep 27, 2012 by EOL − Jennifer Rycenga (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 7, 2013 by EOL − mkmcd (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 8, 2015 by EOL − clairem (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Nov 23, 2015 by EOL − aprespo (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 7, 2013 by EOL − Donna Pomeroy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 25, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 4, 1999 by EOL − Dr. Robert T. and Margaret Orr (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 21, 2009 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Mar 28, 2014 by EOL − deviirao (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 26, 2007 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jun 24, 2010 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 14, 2008 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 10, 2014 by EOL − Richard Spellenberg (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 17, 2011 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3145377)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:213767-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Hemizonia congesta DC.)