Shieldplant (Streptanthus tortuosus, Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci. 2: 152 (1863))

Family: Brassicaceae

Author: Kellogg

Bibliography: Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci. 2: 152 (1863)

Year: 1863

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Streptanthus

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. U.S.A.

Description

The Shieldplant, scientifically named Streptanthus tortuosus, is a unique species belonging to the Brassicaceae family. First recorded in 1863 by Kellogg, it was documented in the Proceedings of the California Academy of Sciences, a significant contribution to botanical literature. This fascinating plant is primarily found in the western regions of the United States, where it thrives in various habitats.

Characterized by its twisting stems and strikingly eccentric flowers, the Shieldplant stands out among many other native flora. Its flowers exhibit a distinctive shield-like appearance, which is the inspiration behind its common name. The Shieldplant’s flowers can vary in color but often present a combination of purples and yellows, making it a vibrant addition to its natural surroundings.

Adapting well to rocky soils and mountainous regions, the Shieldplant has developed a resilience that allows it to flourish in less hospitable terrain. Its intricate floral design not only contributes to the aesthetic diversity of the western U.S. flora but also plays a role in attracting specific pollinators, ensuring the propagation of the species.

The stem and leaf structure of Streptanthus tortuosus offers additional botanical interest. Its twisted, serpentine form adds a visual complexity that piques the curiosity of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. This morphological uniqueness is reflective of the plant’s adaptations to its environment, contributing to its survival strategy.

In summary, the Shieldplant, or Streptanthus tortuosus, is a notable species within the Brassicaceae family, celebrated for its peculiar beauty and ecological significance. Documented by Kellogg in the mid-19th century and predominantly observed in the western United States, this plant continues to be of interest for scientific study and appreciation.

Common Names

Eng: shieldplant
En: Shieldplant

Synonyms

• Streptanthus sanhedrensis (Eastw.)
• Streptanthus orbiculatus (Greene)
• Streptanthus suffrutescens (Greene)
• Pleiocardia orbiculata ((Greene) Greene)
• Streptanthus tortuosus var. suffrutescens ((Greene) Jeps.)
• Pleiocardia suffrutescens ((Greene) Greene)
• Streptanthus tortuosus var. flavescens (Jeps.)
• Disaccanthus tortuosus ((Kellogg) O.E.Schulz)
• Pleiocardia tortuosa ((Kellogg) Greene)
• Streptanthus tortuosus var. oblongus (Jeps.)
• Streptanthus tortuosus var. pallidus (Jeps.)
• Streptanthus tortuosus var. optatus (Jeps.)
• Streptanthus tortuosus var. foliosus ((Greene) D.W.Taylor)
• Streptanthus foliosus (Greene)
• Streptanthus tortuosus var. orbiculatus (H.M.Hall)
• Erysimum tortuosum ((Kellogg) Kuntze)
• Pleiocardia foliosa ((Greene) Greene)
• Streptanthus tortuosus subsp. truei (Al-Shehbaz)

Distribution

• California (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Oregon (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken May 20, 2014 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 7, 2002 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 13, 2002 by EOL − Robert Potts (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 2, 2014 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 13, 2002 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)

Flower

Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

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

Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Fruit

Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Albert P. Bekker (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 8, 2009 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 8, 2009 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 10, 2007 by EOL − J. E.(Jed) and Bonnie McClellan (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Feb 18, 2001 by EOL − Robert Potts (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3041559)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:299184-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Streptanthus tortuosus Kellogg)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb, Subshrub

Growth