Mono Craters Blazing Star
Image: Mary DeDecker (cc-by-nc)
NameMono Craters Blazing Star
Scientific NameMentzelia monoensis Brokaw & L.Hufford
Common NamesMono Craters Blazing Star
Plant FamilyLoasaceae
Natural HabitatEndemic to the Mono Basin in California, specifically found in greasewood scrub habitats on Paoha Island, Mono Lake, at elevations around 6480 feet. It thrives in dry, alkaline, and often volcanic soils.
Parts Used
Medicinal Actions
Traditional UsesNo specific traditional medicinal uses are widely documented for Mentzelia monoensis. While some Mentzelia species have been used by Native American tribes for various purposes, specific applications for this rare endemic species are not readily available in ethnobotanical records.
Preparation Methods
Contraindications & WarningsNone known, due to the lack of documented medicinal use for this specific species. As with any wild plant, proper identification is crucial, and consumption is not recommended without expert guidance.
Cultivation NotesRequires dry, well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils, mimicking its native greasewood scrub habitat. Prefers full sun and is adapted to high-elevation, arid conditions. Propagation is typically from seed.
Rarityrare
Description
Mentzelia monoensis is an annual or short-lived perennial herbaceous plant characterized by its slender, often branching stems and deeply lobed or toothed leaves. It produces small, pale yellow, star-shaped flowers, typical of the Mentzelia genus.
