Desert lavender (Condea emoryi, Phytotaxa 58: 16 (2012))

Family: Lamiaceae

Author: (Torr.) Harley & J.F.B.Pastore

Bibliography: Phytotaxa 58: 16 (2012)

Year: 2012

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Condea

Vegetable: False

Observations: California to Arizona and NW. Mexico

Description

Desert lavender, scientifically known as Condea emoryi, is a fascinating member of the Lamiaceae family. This distinctive plant thrives in the arid regions of California, Arizona, and Northwestern Mexico.

Characterized by its resilient nature, desert lavender is particularly well adapted to survive in some of the harshest climates. Its ability to withstand extreme temperatures and limited water availability makes it a standout among desert flora. This plant typically exhibits a shrub-like form, often growing to an impressive height despite its tough surroundings.

The foliage of desert lavender is composed of small, grey-green leaves, which often emit a delightful aroma when brushed against. This aromatic quality not only adds to its charm but also hints at its membership in the mint family (Lamiaceae), known for such traits. The leaves’ coloration helps to reflect sunlight, reducing water loss and contributing to the plant’s survival in desert ecosystems.

Blooming in the spring, desert lavender produces clusters of delicate flowers that range in color from pale lavender to vibrant purple. These blossoms not only add a splash of color to the often monochromatic desert landscape but also attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The flowers emit a subtle fragrance, further enhancing the allure of this hardy plant.

Desert lavender has also been noted for its potential uses in traditional medicine and as a natural remedy. Indigenous peoples of the regions where it grows have historically utilized this plant for various therapeutic purposes, though such uses should be approached with caution and respect for traditional knowledge.

The recent classification and detailed study of Condea emoryi were meticulously documented in Phytotaxa 58: 16 (2012) by esteemed botanists (Torr.) Harley & J.F.B. Pastore. Their work highlights the botanical significance and distinct characteristics of this remarkable desert inhabitant.

In summary, desert lavender is a resilient and attractive shrub that plays a significant role in the desert ecosystems of California, Arizona, and Northwestern Mexico. Its aromatic foliage, vibrant blossoms, and ability to thrive in arid conditions make it a plant of both ecological and aesthetic value.

Common Names

En: Desert lavender
Eng: chia, desert-lavender

Synonyms

• Hyptis emoryi (Torr.)
• Hyptis emoryi var. palmeri ((S.Watson) I.M.Johnst.)
• Mesosphaerum emoryi ((Torr.) Kuntze)
• Hyptis emoryi var. amplifolia (I.M.Johnst.)
• Mesosphaerum palmeri ((S.Watson) Goldman)
• Hyptis palmeri (S.Watson)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Dec 10, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 3, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 19, 2022 by julia higgins (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 19, 2016 by EOL − Steve Jones (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Dec 13, 2015 by EOL − Robb Hannawacker (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 27, 2015 by EOL − Jon Rishi (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 15, 2016 by EOL − matthew_salkiewicz (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 15, 2016 by EOL − matthew_salkiewicz (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 25, 2016 by EOL − tphender (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken Mar 10, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 6, 2015 by EOL − Neil Frakes (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 13, 2015 by EOL − Robb Hannawacker (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 22, 2016 by EOL − tphender (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 17, 2016 by EOL − Robb Hannawacker (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Dec 3, 2014 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 10, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 15, 2016 by EOL − matthew_salkiewicz (cc-by-nc)

Bark

Taken Dec 9, 2011 by EOL − Anita (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 21, 2015 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77120829-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Hyptis emoryi Torr.)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2926808)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7542255)

Specifications

Growth