Family: Primulaceae
Author: Pursh
Bibliography: Fl. Amer. Sept., ed. 2, 1: 137 (1816)
Year: 1816
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Androsace
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: Canada to U.S.A.
Description
West rock-jasmine, known scientifically as Androsace occidentalis, is a captivating member of the Primulaceae family. Described in the early 19th century by the renowned botanist Pursh, this charming plant species has intrigued botanists and enthusiasts for over two centuries, first documented in the second edition of “Flora Americae Septentrionalis” in 1816.
This delicate plant graces a broad geographical range, thriving from the expansive terrains of Canada down through various regions of the United States of America. An observation of its distribution reveals its resilience in diverse environmental conditions, reflecting a remarkable adaptability.
West rock-jasmine showcases an elegant form, often forming small, loosely clustered rosettes. The leaves are typically linear to lance-shaped, exhibiting a soft, fine texture. This distinct foliage pattern is a visual delight, capturing the essence of simplicity and grace. Flourishing in well-drained, often rocky substrates, Androsace occidentalis is proficient at taking root in seemingly inhospitable environments, a trait that has fascinated botanists and ecologists alike.
During its blooming period, this species adorns itself with petite, yet striking, flowers that range in hues from white to pale pink. Each bloom features a corolla that opens gracefully, revealing a beauty that belies its tiny size. These delicate blossoms are not just visually pleasing; they also play an essential role in local ecosystems by providing nectar and pollen for various pollinators.
In summary, West rock-jasmine is a testament to nature’s subtle beauty and resilience. Its widespread presence from Canada to the U.S.A., coupled with its enchanting flowers and hardy nature, makes Androsace occidentalis a compelling subject of study and admiration within the botanical community.
Common Names
Eng: west rock-jasmine, western rock-jasmine, western rockjasmine, western fairy-candelabra, western androsace, western pygmyflower, western rock jasmine
Fra: androsace occidentale
En: West rock-jasmine, Western rockjasmine, Western Rock-Jasmine, Western fairy-candelabra, Western androsace, Western pygmyflower, Western rock jasmine, California Rockjasmine
Ar: رقاقس غربي
Fr: Androsace occidentale, Androsace allongée
De: Langgestielter Mannsschild, Langstieliger Mannsschild
It: Androsace siciliana
Synonyms
- Androsace arizonica (A.Gray)
- Androsace occidentalis var. simplex ((Rydb.) H.St.John)
- Androsace simplex (Rydb.)
- Androsace occidentalis f. simplex ((Rydb.) G.T.Robbins)
- Amadea occidentalis ((Pursh) Lunell)
- Androsace occidentalis subsp. arizonica ((A.Gray) G.T.Robbins)
- Primula arizonica ((A.Gray) Derganc)
- Androsace occidentalis var. arizonica ((A.Gray) H.St.John)
- Androsace platysepala (Wooton & Standl.)
- Primula occidentalis ((Pursh) Kuntze)
- Aretia occidentalis ((Pursh) MacMill.)
Distribution
- Alberta (native)
- Arizona (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Manitoba (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Minnesota (native)
- Missouri (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- North Dakota (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Ontario (native)
- Saskatchewan (native)
- South Dakota (native)
- Texas (native)
- Utah (native)
- Wisconsin (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken May 30, 2020 by ВанЛиен ВанЛиен (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Flower
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-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/3169321)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:13161-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Androsace occidentalis Pursh)
