Mentzelia gypsophila
NameMentzelia gypsophila
Scientific NameMentzelia gypsophila
Common NamesGypsum Blazingstar, Gypsum Stickleaf
Plant FamilyLoasaceae
Natural HabitatEndemic to gypsum-rich soils, primarily found in desert scrub and pinyon-juniper woodlands within the Mojave Desert regions of California and Nevada.
Parts Used
Medicinal Actions
Traditional UsesThere are no widely documented traditional medicinal uses for Mentzelia gypsophila. While some Mentzelia species had seeds used as food by Native American tribes, this specific species lacks recorded medicinal applications.
Preparation Methods
Contraindications & WarningsNo known contraindications are documented due to the lack of established medicinal uses for this species.
Cultivation NotesThis plant requires full sun and extremely well-drained, often gypsum-rich soils. It is drought-tolerant once established but is generally difficult to cultivate outside of its specific natural habitat.
Rarityrare
Description
Mentzelia gypsophila is an annual or short-lived perennial herb characterized by rough, hairy stems and deeply lobed leaves. It produces showy, bright yellow, five-petaled flowers with numerous prominent stamens, typically opening in the morning or late afternoon.
