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Gayophytum diffusum

Onagraceae

Spreading Groundsmoke

Gayophytum diffusum
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
  • Flower Form: Petals 4
  • Life Cycle: Annual
  • Height: 4–20 inches
  • Habitat: Disturbed, East-side Forest, Shrub-Steppe
  • Found In: Crater Lake NP, East Gorge, N Cascades NP, Siskiyous, West Gorge
  • Native: Yes
  • Latin Synonyms: Gayophytum humile

Map of where Gayophytum diffusum is found