Golden-yarrow (Eriophyllum confertiflorum, Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts xix. 25 (1883))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: (DC.) A.Gray

Bibliography: Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts xix. 25 (1883)

Year: 1883

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Eriophyllum

Vegetable: False

Observations: California to Mexico (Baja California Norte)

Description

Golden-yarrow, scientifically known as Eriophyllum confertiflorum, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This captivating species of flora is renowned for its vibrant yellow blooms which seem to blanket the landscape with a golden hue, hence its common name. The enchanting flowers of Golden-yarrow create a visually striking display that is often admired by botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Native to the region spanning from California to Baja California Norte in Mexico, Golden-yarrow thrives in these locales, showcasing the adaptability and resilience of this beautiful plant. It flourishes in various environments, typically seen growing abundantly in chaparral, coastal scrub, and open woodlands. The plant’s habitat preferences contribute to its widespread presence and prominence in its native range.

Golden-yarrow was formally described and classified in a significant botanical work published in 1883, as recorded in the “Proceedings of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences” under the authorship of the distinguished botanist Asa Gray. The nomenclature reflects the thorough and diligent studies conducted by Gray, emphasizing the plant’s importance and placing it within the vast context of the Asteraceae family.

The plant is characterized by its clusters of small, radiant yellow flowers, which are tightly packed together, forming dense inflorescences that are both aesthetically pleasing and vital for pollinators. The foliage of Golden-yarrow further complements its floral display, consisting of finely divided, grayish-green leaves that provide a soft-textured backdrop to the vivid blooms.

Golden-yarrow not only plays a critical role in its ecosystem by supporting pollinators but also holds horticultural value. It is often used in native plant gardens and restoration projects due to its attractive appearance and ecological benefits. Moreover, its drought tolerance makes it an excellent choice for sustainable landscaping in arid and semi-arid regions.

In summary, Golden-yarrow or Eriophyllum confertiflorum stands out as a remarkable plant with its striking yellow flowers and ecological contributions. Its native presence from California to Baja California Norte highlights its significance in the region’s natural heritage and its enduring legacy as documented by botanist Asa Gray in the late 19th century.

Common Names

Eng: golden-yarrow, yellow-yarrow
En: Golden-yarrow, Yellow-yarrow

Synonyms

• Bahia confertiflora (DC.)

Distribution

• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 14, 2022 by Deniz Durdağ (cc-by-sa)

© 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/3130484)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:204850-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Eriophyllum confertiflorum (DC.) A.Gray)

Specifications

Growth habit: Shrub, Subshrub

Growth