Onagraceae

Gayophytum diffusum

Spreading Groundsmoke

Erect stem often has many branches. Leaves narrow, to 2 in. long, becoming much smaller toward top. Flower petals small, white with yellow or greenish spot at base with long stamens, fading to reddish. Seed capsule constricted between seeds. Grows in open mountain forests, sagebrush-steppe. Several other species of Gayophytum are in our area, all small and difficult to distinguish.

• Rarity: Common
• Flowering Time: Mid Summer
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Height: 4--20 inches
• Habitat: East-Side Forest, Shrub-Steppe, Disturbed
• Found In: East Gorge, West Gorge, Siskiyous, Crater Lake Np, N Cascades Np
• Native: Yes