Family: Polemoniaceae
Author: (Hook.) V.E.Grant
Bibliography: Aliso 3: 361 (1956)
Year: 1956
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Ipomopsis
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. & WC. U.S.A.
Description
Ballhead gilia, scientifically known as Ipomopsis congesta, is a captivating plant species belonging to the Polemoniaceae family. This plant is native to the western and west-central regions of the United States, where it thrives in its natural habitat.
Characterized by its distinctive floral structure, Ballhead gilia forms dense, rounded clusters of small, tubular flowers. The flowers typically exhibit a range of colors from white to pale blue or pink, adding a delicate charm to their surrounding environment. This robust perennial possesses a unique adaptive quality, allowing it to flourish in various soil types and elevations, often favoring arid and semi-arid conditions.
The plant’s structure is relatively low-growing, forming tight clusters that make it a visually appealing choice for gardeners and plant enthusiasts alike. Its foliage is herbaceous, comprising narrow, lobed leaves that enhance its overall texture and appearance.
Ballhead gilia is not only appreciated for its ornamental value but also plays a significant role in its ecosystem. It’s a favorite among pollinators, specifically attracting bees and butterflies, which aid in the plant’s pollination process.
The formal botanical description of Ipomopsis congesta was documented in 1956 in the journal Aliso, under volume three, page 361, by V.E. Grant, building upon the earlier classification work by Hook. This meticulous scientific record underscores the plant’s botanical significance and historical classification efforts.
In summary, Ipomopsis congesta is a remarkable plant species that combines beauty and ecological importance, making it a cherished native flora within the United States. Its adaptability and appeal ensure its presence in both natural landscapes and cultivated gardens.
Common Names
Eng: ball-head gilia, ball-head skyrocket, ballhead gilia, ballhead ipomopsis, ballhead skyrocket
En: Ballhead gilia, Ball-head Standing-cypress, Ball-head skyrocket, Ballhead ipomopsis, Ballhead skyrocket, Ball-head gilia
Synonyms
- Navarretia congesta ((Hook.) Kuntze)
- Gilia congesta (Hook.)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- North Dakota (native)
- Oregon (native)
- South Dakota (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Jan 22, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 22, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 22, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 5, 2002 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 29, 2012 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − This image is not copyrighted and may be freely used for any purpose. Please credit the artist, original publication if applicable, and the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database. The following format is suggested and will be appreciated: Sheri Hagwood @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database If you cite PLA (public)
Taken Mar 31, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Bark
Taken Mar 31, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 21, 2014 by EOL − kowen2000 (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 15, 1999 by EOL − John Game (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jan 22, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 24, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 22, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 22, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 5, 2002 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (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/2927964)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:129827-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ipomopsis congesta (Hook.) V.E. Grant)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb