Brittle spineflower (Chorizanthe brevicornu, W.H.Emory, Rep. U.S. Mex. Bound. 2(1): 177 (1858))

Family: Polygonaceae

Author: Torr.

Bibliography: W.H.Emory, Rep. U.S. Mex. Bound. 2(1): 177 (1858)

Year: 1858

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Chorizanthe

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: SW. U.S.A. to NW. Mexico

Description

The Brittle spineflower, known scientifically as Chorizanthe brevicornu, is a fascinating member of the Polygonaceae family. First described by the botanist Torr. in W.H. Emory’s 1858 report on the U.S. and Mexican boundary, this plant has captured the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. Endemic to the southwestern regions of the United States and extending into northwestern Mexico, the Brittle spineflower thrives in these generally arid landscapes.

Characterized by its distinctive, delicate structure, the Brittle spineflower is a resilient species adapted to its environment. Its common name, ‘brittle,’ refers to the fragile nature of its spindly stems, which bear small yet striking flowers. These flowers are typically grouped in clusters at the ends of the stem, providing a subtle but beautiful splash of color against the often stark background of its habitat.

As a native plant to this specific geographical area, the Brittle spineflower plays a crucial role in the local ecology. Its presence helps maintain the balance of the delicate ecosystems in which it resides, often providing forage for insects and other wildlife.

The discovery and subsequent documentation of Chorizanthe brevicornu by Torr. have provided valuable insight into the biodiversity of the North American deserts. This documentation has underscored the importance of ongoing botanical research and conservation efforts to preserve such unique species.

Common Names

Eng: brittle spineflower
En: Brittle spineflower, Sagebrush chorizanthe

Synonyms

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oregon (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 8, 2005 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 8, 2005 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 8, 2005 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 2, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 16, 2014 by EOL − James Morefield (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 31, 2014 by EOL − Sheryl Creer (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Gladys Lucille Smith (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Donald Myrick (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 2, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Mar 20, 2016 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2888910)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:693456-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Chorizanthe brevicornu Torr.)

Specifications

Growth