Minnesota Wildflowers


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Polanisia dodecandra (Red-whisker Clammyweed)

Plant Info
Also known as:
Genus:Polanisia
Family:Cleomaceae (Spider Flower)
Life cycle:annual
Origin:native
Habitat:sun; along shores, sandy soil
Bloom season:July - September
Plant height:1 to 2 feet
MN county distribution (click map to enlarge):Minnesota county distribution map

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Detailed Information

Flower: Flower shape: 4-petals Cluster type: flat

[photo of flowers] 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: Leaf attachment: alternate Leaf type: compound

[photo of leaves] 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:

[photo of 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.

Where to buy native seed and plants

Map of native plant purveyors in the upper midwest

Help support this site by buying seeds & plants from these vendors. Tell them we sent you!

  • Prairie Restorations - Bringing people together with the land
  • Shop for native seeds and plants at PrairieMoon.com!
  • Shooting Star Native Seeds - Native Prairie Grass and Wildflower Seeds
  • Sunrise Native Plants - Adding Balance to Your Landscape
  • Morning Sky Greenery - Native Prairie Plants

More photos

Photos by K. Chayka taken at Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, Anoka County. Photos courtesy Peter M. Dziuk taken near Alexandria, Douglas County.

Comments

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