Polanisia dodecandra (Red-whisker Clammyweed)

Plant Info

Also known as:
Genus:	Polanisia
Family:	Capparaceae (Caper)
Life cycle:	annual
Origin:	native
Habitat:	sun; along shores, sandy soil
Bloom season:	summer, fall
Plant height:	1 to 2 feet
USDA PLANTS database:	Minnesota county distribution map

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Detailed Information

Flower:

A flat cluster 1 to 2 inches across of ¼-inch flowers. Individual flowers have 4 white notched petals that stay erect, about 10 long wiry red stamens with red or green tips, and 4 triangular sepals that are reddish green. One plant may branch and have multiple clusters, with the one at the top of the plant the largest.

Leaves and stem:

Leaves near the base of the plant are compound in 3's; on the upper part of the plant they are singles, with little or no leaf stem. Upper leaves and lower leaflets are oval, up to 1½ inches long and ½ wide; color is dull yellowish green to purplish green. Leaves and stem are both covered with sticky hairs.

Fruit:

Fertilized flowers are replaced with thin yellowish green pods up to 2 inches long that are also covered with sticky hairs. The pods stand erect.

Notes:

The sticky stubstance covering this plant does not easily rub off. You'll want to wash your hands after touching it.

More photos

• a patch of Red-whisker Clammyweed
• full size plant, about 18 inches tall

Photos taken at Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, Coon Rapids, MN, July-August 2007

Comments

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