Redstem springbeauty (Claytonia rubra, Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb. 25: 188 (1925))

Family: Montiaceae

Author: (Howell) Tidestr.

Bibliography: Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb. 25: 188 (1925)

Year: 1925

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Claytonia

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: S. British Columbia to W. South Dakota and California

Description

The Redstem springbeauty, scientifically known as Claytonia rubra, is a captivating perennial herb notable for its delicate beauty and ecological versatility. This enchanting plant belongs to the Montiaceae family and has drawn attention since its formal classification in 1925 by Tidestr.

Native to North America, Claytonia rubra thrives across a diverse range extending from southern British Columbia to western South Dakota and reaching as far south as California. Such a wide geographical distribution highlights its adaptability to various climates and soil conditions.

The species is distinguished by its vibrant red-hued stems, which provide a striking contrast to its typically pale pink to white flowers. These flowers bloom in the early spring, adding a splash of color to the landscape and signaling the end of winter. Each blossom features five delicate petals, often adorned with subtle pink veins that accentuate their refined charm.

Redstem springbeauty grows in well-drained environments, often flourishing in forested areas, grasslands, and rocky slopes. Its presence in these habitats contributes to the biodiversity and beauty of the regions it inhabits. The plant’s ability to colonize these varied ecosystems speaks to its hardiness and ecological significance.

As an early spring bloomer, Claytonia rubra plays a crucial role in supporting local pollinators. Bees and other insects rely on its nectar and pollen during a period when few other plants are in flower, making it an important component of the food web.

In addition to its ecological value, Redstem springbeauty has captured the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. Its aesthetic appeal and resilience make it a favored subject of study and admiration in both natural and cultivated settings.

In summary, Claytonia rubra, or Redstem springbeauty, is a resilient and beautiful plant with significant ecological and aesthetic contributions. Its broad range and early blooming period underscore its importance within the flora of North America, making it a plant of continued botanical interest.

Common Names

Eng: redstem springbeauty, red-stemmed spring beauty, erubescent miner’s-lettuce
Fra: claytonie rouge
En: Redstem springbeauty, Red-stemmed spring beauty, Erubescent miner’s-lettuce
Fr: Claytonie rouge

Synonyms

• Montia rubra (Howell)
• Claytonia perfoliata var. rubra ((Howell) Poelln.)
• Limnia rubra ((Howell) A.Heller)

Distribution

• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Oregon (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Apr 10, 2022 by Darin Ramsey (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 3, 2021 by eelco eelco (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 15, 2020 by Deborah Cockrell (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 14, 2021 by Nancyjo Olofson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 17, 2021 by Alaattin Arici (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Dec 7, 2009 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 4, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 22, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 3, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 14, 2021 by Nancyjo Olofson (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jun 12, 2022 by Sya Renee (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 21, 2020 by jos hendriks (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 21, 2020 by jos hendriks (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 3, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Dec 7, 2009 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3084740)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60048-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Claytonia rubra (Howell) Tidestr.)

Specifications

Growth