Western gromwell (Lithospermum ruderale, Nov. Stirp. Pug. 2: 28 (1830))

Family: Boraginaceae

Author: Douglas ex Lehm.

Bibliography: Nov. Stirp. Pug. 2: 28 (1830)

Year: 1830

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lithospermum

Vegetable: False

Observations: WC. U.S.A.

Description

Western gromwell, known scientifically as Lithospermum ruderale, is a fascinating plant that has garnered attention for its unique characteristics and regional specificity. First described by botanist Douglas and formally documented in the publication “Novarum Stirpium Pugillus” in 1830, this species forms part of the Boraginaceae family, a group known for its rough, hairy herbs.

Primarily observed in specific locales within the western regions of the United States, Western gromwell thrives in environments that provide the right balance of sunlight and soil conditions. This plant is often encountered in open, dry habitats where it contributes to the region’s biodiversity.

Characterized by its resilient nature, Western gromwell has a sturdy structure with leaves and stems that often display a textured, bristly surface typical of many Boraginaceae members. This adaptability and hardiness allow it to persevere in areas that might be too challenging for less robust species.

Western gromwell’s significance extends beyond its ecological presence; it has been studied for various reasons, including its potential uses in different fields such as ethnobotany and conservation. Its ability to sustain itself in less fertile soils makes it an interesting subject of study for scientists and botanists aiming to understand plant survival mechanisms in harsh environments.

In summary, Western gromwell (Lithospermum ruderale) is not just another plant in the vast Boraginaceae family but a remarkable species with a storied scientific background and significant ecological and ethnobotanical importance. Its presence in the western United States underlines its role in the natural tapestry of the region, offering ample opportunity for further study and appreciation.

Common Names

Eng: columbia puccoon, wayside gromwell, western gromwell, western stoneseed, whiteweed, western puccoon, columbia gromwell, lemonweed, woolly puccoon
Fra: grémil rudéral
En: Western gromwell, Columbia puccoon, Wayside gromwell, Western stoneseed, Whiteweed, White stoneseed, Vóhpó’êstse, Western puccoon, Columbia gromwell, Lemonweed, Woolly puccoon
Fr: Grémil rudéral

Synonyms

• Lithospermum ruderale var. macrospermum (J.F.Macbr.)
• Lithospermum ruderale var. torreyi (J.F.Macbr.)
• Lithospermum torreyi (Nutt.)
• Batschia pilosa (G.Don)
• Batschia torreyi (G.Don)
• Lithospermum ruderale var. lanceolatum (A.Nelson)
• Lithospermum pilosum (Nutt.)

Distribution

• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jun 22, 2021 by Ethan Greer (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 20, 2021 by gypsy.hiker (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 6, 2020 by Kyler Bowers (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 13, 2022 by Crystal Kennedy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2022 by Jared Van Bussel (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 20, 2021 by gypsy.hiker (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 21, 2022 by D Jager (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 19, 2014 by EOL − Jen Cabbage (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 29, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 29, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Dec 10, 2002 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 29, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 29, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 10, 2011 by EOL − Steven Thorsted (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 10, 2002 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

© 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/2926094)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:118205-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lithospermum ruderale Douglas ex Lehm.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Multiple Stem

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.8

Ph minimum: 6.0