Home    |     Image Library    |     Blog    |     Purchasing    |     Contact    |     About    |     Search

Image Library > Flora > Broomrape Family >

Cryptantha Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus cuspidatus ssp. cryptanthus)

Cryptantha owl's clover (Orthocarpus cuspidatus ssp. cryptanthus) is an annual herb which is endemic to California, southern Oregon, and western Nevada. When viewed from above, the long, slender leaves tend to form a beautiful spiral pattern, adding a subtle touch of elegance to high-elevation open volcanic slopes. Although these root parasites bear a resemblance to Indian paintbrushes (which are also root parasites), they are not in the same genus. On the other hand, several other species of owl's clover (e.g., purple owl's clover) are true Indian paintbrushes in the genus Castilleja. Additional common names include short flowered owl's clover, broad scaled owl's clover, toothed owl's clover, and Copeland's owl's clover.


Cryptantha owl's clover (Orthocarpus cuspidatus ssp. cryptanthus). Focus-stacked composite of 18 exposures. Carson Pass, Eldorado National Forest, Sierra Nevada, Alpine County, California, USA.
PLA0709


Cryptantha owl's clover (Orthocarpus cuspidatus ssp. cryptanthus), low-angle view of newly bloomed wildflowers. Carson Pass, Eldorado National Forest, Sierra Nevada, Alpine County, California, USA.
PLA0513

Next Plant: Dwarf alpine Indian paintbrush (Castilleja nana)



Interested in buying a print or licensing a picture? Click on the purchasing link for more information or contact us with any questions you may have. Thanks for looking!

Back To Top

All images copyright Timothy Boomer. All rights reserved worldwide.