Oreostemma peirsonii
Oreostemma peirsonii (formerly Aster peirsonii) is a species of aster known by the common names Peirson's aster and Peirson's mountaincrown.
| Oreostemma peirsonii | |
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| Species: | O. peirsonii |
| Binomial name | |
| Oreostemma peirsonii (Sharsm.) G.L.Nesom | |
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Aster peirsonii | |
It is endemic to the Sierra Nevada of California, especially around the area where Fresno, Tulare, and Inyo Counties meet. It is a plant of the alpine climate of the high mountain peaks.
Description
Oreostemma peirsonii is a small perennial herb growing from a caudex and taproot. It lies flat on the ground, growing no taller than about 8 centimeters. The leaves are located at the base of the plant and are linear in shape and narrow, growing a few centimeters long. The stem and leaves are mostly hairless and have scattered resin glands.
The inflorescence bears a single flower head lined with green or purplish phyllaries. The head contains many purple ray florets between 1 and 2 centimeters long around a center of yellow disc florets. The fruit is an achene.
External links
- Jepson Manual Treatment: Oreostemma peirsonii
- USDA Plants Profile
- Flora of North America
- Oreostemma peirsonii — U.C. Photo gallery