Desert Cymopterus
(Cymopterus deserticola )
Apiaceae

Photo Copyright 2003 Heath McAllister

Description: Perennial, hairless herb, about 6 inches (15cm) tall, with a taproot. Leaves 3/4 - 2 1/2 inches (2-6.5cm) long, pear-shaped and repeatedly lobed, with a leaf stalk 1 1/2 - 4 inches (4-10cm) long. Inflorescence is a round umbel (flower stalks coming from a common point), with the stalk of the inflorescence greater or equal in lenghth to the leaves. Flower petals are purple, and the fruit is 1/4 inch (5-7mm) long.

Distribution:

Habitat: Sandy desert, creosote bush scrub.

Flowering Period: Blooms March - May.

Similar Plants:

Status: BLM Sensitive, California Native Plant Society List 1B