Images
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Morphology
- Stem
- Erect or prostrate, slender, usually branched at base.
- Leaves
- Alternate, simple, somewhat fleshy, numerous on lower portion of plant, scattered above, linear to linear-lanceolate, 2/5 to 4/5 inch long, glabrous; margins entire; tips pointed.
- Inflorescence
- Panicle-like.
- Flower
- Blooming first on lower portion of plant then advancing toward tip; sepals 5, overlapping, less than 3/16 inch long, entire; corollas about 3/4 inch wide, blue to pale bluish white; petals 5, 1/4 to 1/2 inch long; stamens 5, united at bases; styles 5, distinct.
- Fruit
- Capsules, egg-shaped, separating into 10 segments; seeds flat, shiny.
Ecology
- Habitat
- Dry, open prairies, roadsides, and pastures on sandy or rocky limestone or chalk soils.
- Distribution
- West 2/3 of Kansas.
Additional Notes
Comments
The petals will drop off easily in very hot weather or when disturbed.
Quick Facts
- Plant Type
- Wildflower
- Family
- Linaceae - Flax Family
- Life Span
- Annual
- Height
- 2-16 inches
- Last Updated
- 2007-10-08
Color Groups
Blue, Purple, Lavender & Violet Wildflowers
Flowering Period
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Blooms: April, May, June