California Jewelflower
(Caulanthus californicus )
Brassicaceae

Photo Copyright 1993 William Sleuter

Description: Annual herb with basal and non-basal leaves. Basal leaves 4 1/4 inches (<11cm) long, coarsely to shallowly wavy, with a winged stem. Non-basal leaves pear-shaped to roundish, with smooth to coarsely toothed edges. Flowers have 4-8 sepals 1/8 - 3/8 inches (4-10mm) long, and whitish petals with purple veins and wavy margins, 1/4 - 7/8 inches (6-11mm) long. Fruit are 3/8 - 2 3/8 inches (1-6cm) long, and angle upward, or bend abruptly. Seeds are roundish.

Distribution:

Habitat: Flats, gentle slopes, non-alkaline grassland, open juniper woodland. Elevation 224 - 3200 feet.

Flowering Period: Blooms February - March.

Similar Plants:

Status: Federal Endangered, California State Endangered, California Native Plant Society List 1B