Hairy arnica (Arnica mollis, Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1(suppl.): 331 (1834))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Hook.

Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1(suppl.): 331 (1834)

Year: 1834

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Arnica

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Subarctic America to W. & WC. U.S.A.

Description

Hairy arnicas, scientifically known as Arnica mollis, is a hardy species of perennial plant belonging to the versatile Asteraceae family. Initially documented by the notable author Hook. in 1834 in an addendum to Flora Boreali-Americana, Arnica mollis has since garnered attention for its distinct characteristics and wide geographic distribution.

Native to Subarctic America, Hairy arnicas also thrive across western and west-central regions of the United States, showcasing their adaptability to varied climates within this expansive range. The species is recognized by its vibrant yellow flowers, which are a classic identifier for many plants within the Asteraceae family. These blooms not only contribute to the biodiversity of their habitats but also play a significant role in supporting local pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Hairy arnica stands out due to its robust structure, characterized by a hairy texture that differentiates it from other members of the Arnica genus. This distinctive feature not only adds to its visual appeal but might also offer some protection against pests and harsh environmental conditions, showcasing nature’s intricate interplay between form and function.

Throughout its historic and contemporary existence, Arnica mollis has been well-documented and studied, providing valuable insights into the flora of North America. Its presence across a wide range of territories speaks to its resilience and adaptability, qualities that are crucial for survival in both subarctic and temperate climates. Such attributes make Hairy arnica a plant of interest for botanists and plant enthusiasts alike who seek to understand and conserve the rich plant life that graces these regions.

In summary, with its compelling history, wide distribution, and unique physical traits, the Hairy arnica continues to be a significant species within the realm of botany and ecology.

Common Names

Eng: hairy arnica, cordilleran arnica, cordilleran leopardbane
Fra: arnica douce, arnica moelleux, arnica soyeux
En: Hairy arnica, Cordilleran Leopardbane, Wooly arnica, Cordilleran arnica
Fr: Arnica douce, Arnica moelleux, Arnica soyeux

Synonyms

• Arnica macillenta (Greene)
• Arnica rivularis (Greene)
• Arnica mollis var. silvatica ((Greene) Maguire)
• Arnica mollis var. scaberrima ((Greene) Smiley)
• Arnica subplumosa var. silvatica ((Greene) A.Nelson)
• Arnica subplumosa (Greene)
• Arnica subplumosa var. macillenta ((Greene) A.Nelson)
• Arnica amplifolia (Rydb.)
• Arnica arachnoidea (Rydb.)
• Arnica confinis (Greene)
• Arnica coloradensis (Rydb.)
• Arnica crocina (Greene)
• Arnica scaberrima (Greene)
• Arnica silvatica (Greene)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jan 15, 2015 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 15, 2015 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 7, 2021 by Veronique Boulanger (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 11, 2020 by Yang Chen (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 11, 2020 by Yang Chen (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 5, 2015 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 7, 2014 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. (public)

© 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/5405898)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:300691-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Arnica mollis Hook.)

Specifications

Growth