Wingnut catseye (Cryptantha pterocarya, Pittonia 1: 120 (1887))

Family: Boraginaceae

Author: (Torr.) Greene

Bibliography: Pittonia 1: 120 (1887)

Year: 1887

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Cryptantha

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: W. & SC. U.S.A. to NW. Mexico

Description

The Wingnut catseye, scientifically known as Cryptantha pterocarya, is a noteworthy species belonging to the Boraginaceae family. This plant was first described in a significant botanical work, Pittonia, in the year 1887 by esteemed botanist Edward Lee Greene, who built upon the groundwork laid by another botanist, John Torrey.

Native to the Western and Southwestern regions of the United States and extending into Northwestern Mexico, the Wingnut catseye flourishes in these diverse habitats. Its adaptability and resilience have made it a subject of interest for botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.

This perennial herb is recognized for its small, white, and densely hairy flowers that give it a distinctive appearance, often forming a dense terminal cluster. The foliage of Cryptantha pterocarya is typically rough to the touch, following the characteristic texture of members within the Boraginaceae family.

The habitats where Wingnut catseye thrives are typically open and dry, ranging from grasslands and sandy soils to rocky terrains, showcasing its ability to endure and prosper in less hospitable environments. This adaptability not only underscores its ecological importance but also its potential utility for xeriscaping and reclamation projects in similar climatic zones.

In terms of conservation and study, Cryptantha pterocarya provides valuable insights into plant ecology and the evolutionary mechanics within the diverse Boraginaceae family. Its presence across varied geographical locales highlights the dynamic range of botanical species native to North America. For anyone interested in North American flora, the Wingnut catseye stands as an enduring symbol of nature’s resilience and the intricate beauty of plant life.

Common Names

Eng: wingnut cryptantha
En: Wingnut catseye, Wingnut cryptantha

Synonyms

• Eritrichium pterocaryum (Torr.)
• Krynitzkia pterocarya ((Torr.) A.Gray)
• Cryptantha pterocarya var. genuina (I.M.Johnst.)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Texas (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Apr 30, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 5, 2016 by EOL − lonnyholmes (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 3, 2016 by EOL − lonnyholmes (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 6, 2022 by Ethan Greer (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Fruit

Taken Mar 22, 2009 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 22, 2009 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 17, 2022 by die (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (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/2926296)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:71536-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cryptantha pterocarya (Torr.) Greene)

Specifications

Growth