Popcorn-flower (Plagiobothrys nothofulvus, Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts 20: 285 (1885))

Family: Boraginaceae

Author: (A.Gray) A.Gray

Bibliography: Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts 20: 285 (1885)

Year: 1885

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Plagiobothrys

Vegetable: False

Observations: Mexico (Baja California Norte)

Description

The Popcorn-flower, scientifically known as Plagiobothrys nothofulvus, is an intriguing member of the Boraginaceae family. This enchanting species garners its common name from the small, white, popcorn-like flowers that grace its slender stems during the blooming season. A careful study and description of this plant were published in the proceedings of the American Academy of Arts in 1885, penned by the eminent botanist Asa Gray.

Plagiobothrys nothofulvus is native to the diverse landscapes of Mexico, particularly flourishing in the region of Baja California Norte. The plant demonstrates a fascinating adaptation to the area’s environment, showcasing its resilience and unique biological characteristics that allow it to thrive in these specific climatic conditions.

The Popcorn-flower stands out not only for its delicate beauty but also for its ecological significance. As part of the Boraginaceae family, it shares a lineage with a diverse group of flowering plants, contributing to the biodiversity of its native habitat. The small, clustered blooms, often tinged with a hint of lavender or white, attract a variety of pollinators, thereby playing a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance within its native range.

Embodying both aesthetic appeal and scientific interest, Plagiobothrys nothofulvus represents a wonderful subject of study for botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. Its historical documentation by A. Gray underscores its long-standing recognition and the ongoing interest in its botanical attributes. Whether observed in its natural habitat or studied within academic circles, the Popcorn-flower continues to captivate those who encounter it through its simple yet profound beauty.

Common Names

Eng: popcorn-flower, rusty popcornflower
En: Popcorn-flower, Rusty popcornflower, Rusty Popcorn-Flower

Synonyms

• Myosotis fulva (Hook. & Arn.)
• Eritrichium nothofulvum (A.Gray)

Distribution

• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Washington (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Dec 19, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 19, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 19, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 19, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

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

Habit

Taken Feb 19, 2002 by EOL − Glenn and Martha Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Beatrice F. Howitt (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2013 by EOL − Scot Loring (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 19, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 19, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken May 16, 2011 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 16, 2011 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 20, 2014 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

Taken Dec 19, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 19, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Leaf

Taken Mar 16, 2015 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 9, 2011 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 19, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2925744)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:120255-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Plagiobothrys nothofulvus (A. Gray) A. Gray)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth