Adonis blazingstar (Mentzelia multiflora, Mem. Amer. Acad. Arts, n.s., 4: 48 (1849))

Family: Loasaceae

Author: (Nutt.) A.Gray

Bibliography: Mem. Amer. Acad. Arts, n.s., 4: 48 (1849)

Year: 1849

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Mentzelia

Vegetable: False

Observations: WC. U.S.A.

Description

The Adonis blazingstar, scientifically known as Mentzelia multiflora, is a captivating flowering plant belonging to the Loasaceae family. Recognized and named by the authoritative botanist Asa Gray in 1849, this vibrant species was thoroughly described in the memoirs of the American Academy of Arts.

Endemic to the western regions of the United States, the Adonis blazingstar thrives in a variety of environments, showcasing its resilience and adaptability. This robust plant is particularly noted for its dazzling floral display, which has contributed to both its common and scientific names.

The blooms of the Adonis blazingstar are radiant and striking, often marked by their bright, eye-catching hues that enhance the natural tapestry of the landscapes they inhabit. The blossoms typically exhibit multiple layers of petals, contributing to their multifloral appearance and making them a standout amidst their native flora.

Its presence in the wild is not only an aesthetic delight but also an ecological boon, providing sustenance and habitat to various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The adaptability of Mentzelia multiflora allows it to populate diverse terrains, from rocky outcrops to sandy soils, illustrating a remarkable degree of ecological versatility.

Beyond its visual appeal, the Adonis blazingstar holds a special place in the hearts of botanists and plant enthusiasts who admire its hardy nature and vibrant presence. Each flowering season brings a spectacular display that captures the essence of the untamed beauty found in the western United States.

In summary, the Adonis blazingstar, Mentzelia multiflora, is a stellar representation of the natural splendor and biological diversity inherent to the Loasaceae family. Its vibrant flowers and wide distribution within the western U.S. make it a plant of both ecological significance and visual splendor.

Common Names

Eng: adonis blazingstar, adonis stickleaf, desert blazingstar, desert stickleaf, manyflowered mentzelia
En: Adonis blazingstar, Desert stickleaf, Adonis stickleaf, Desert blazingstar, Manyflowered mentzelia

Synonyms

• Touterea lutea ((Greene) Rydb.)
• Touterea multiflora ((Nutt.) Rydb.)
• Bartonia multiflora (Nutt.)
• Nuttallia lutea ((Greene) Greene)
• Mentzelia lutea (Greene)
• Hesperaster multiflorus ((Nutt.) Cockerell)
• Nuttallia multiflora ((Nutt.) Greene)
• Mentzelia pumila var. multiflora ((Nutt.) Urb. & Gilg)

Distribution

• Colorado (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Wyoming (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USDI BLM. United States, UT, Kane Co. June 2003. (public)

Taken Mar 6, 2016 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 31, 2016 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 20, 2016 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2022 by Euphrosyne Beauchamp (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 3, 2021 by John Taylor (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2021 by John Taylor (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2022 by Euphrosyne Beauchamp (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Feb 1, 2016 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2022 by Euphrosyne Beauchamp (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 2, 2021 by likafly (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 8, 2021 by Rieder Rachel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 21, 2021 by Trinity St john (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Sep 9, 2022 by S (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Dec 30, 2014 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5331493)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:157468-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Mentzelia multiflora (Nutt.) A. Gray)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth