Comandra umbellata (Bastard Toadflax)
| Also known as: | |
|---|---|
| Genus: | Comandra |
| Family: | Santalaceae (Sandalwood) |
| Life cycle: | perennial |
| Origin: | native |
| Habitat: | sun to part shade; dry prairies, open woods, sandy or rocky soil |
| Bloom season: | spring to early summer |
| Plant height: | 3 to 12 inches |
| USDA PLANTS database: | Minnesota county distribution map |
| Spotted in Ramsey County at: |
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Detailed Information
- Flower:
![[photo of flowers]](/udata/r9ndp23q/white/bastard-toadflax_0529_160600-t.jpg)
Tightly packed flat clusters of a few to many flowers at the end of a slender stalk, at the end of the main stem. Individual flowers are white, 1/8 to ¼ inch across, tubular with 5 pointed lobes that flare out, giving it a star shape. The inside of the tube is green and holds 5 yellow stamens. A plant may branch, with clusters at the end of branching stems.
- Leaves and stem:
![[photo of leaves]](/udata/r9ndp23q/white/bastard-toadflax_0606_172409-t.jpg)
Leaves are generally oval, toothless, hairless, ½ to 2 inches long and 1/8 to ¾ inch wide, with a pointed or blunt tip and little or no leaf stem. Attachment is alternate. The main stem is smooth and slender.
![[photo of flowers]](/udata/r9ndp23q/white/bastard-toadflax_0529_160600.jpg)
![[photo of leaves]](/udata/r9ndp23q/white/bastard-toadflax_0606_172409.jpg)
More photos
Bastard Toadflax plants, about 8 inches tall
more plants Photos taken at Long Lake Regional Park, New Brighton, MN and Wild River State Park, Center City, MN May-June 2008
Comments
Have you seen this plant in Minnesota, or have any other comments about it?
on: 2010-06-11 17:05:35
Several plants on the edge of a short grass remnant in this park.