Sevier River stickleaf
NameSevier River stickleaf
Scientific NameMentzelia argillosa
Common NamesSevier River stickleaf, Clay Mentzelia
Plant FamilyLoasaceae
Natural HabitatNative to arid and semi-arid regions of the western United States, primarily found in Utah. It thrives in dry, open areas, often on clay soils, shale slopes, desert scrub, and pinyon-juniper woodlands.
Parts Usedwhole_plant,leaf
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory
Traditional UsesSpecific traditional medicinal uses for Mentzelia argillosa are not widely documented. However, other Mentzelia species were historically used by Native American tribes, often externally as poultices for skin irritations, sores, or swellings.
Preparation Methodspoultice
Contraindications & WarningsThere are no specific contraindications documented for Mentzelia argillosa. Due to the presence of barbed hairs on the leaves of Mentzelia species, direct skin contact might cause irritation in some individuals.
Cultivation NotesMentzelia argillosa prefers full sun and well-drained, often clayey or rocky soils. It is highly drought-tolerant and adapted to arid desert conditions, typically grown from seed.
Rarityuncommon
Description
Mentzelia argillosa is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant with slender, branched stems and linear to lanceolate leaves covered in stiff, barbed hairs. It produces small, pale yellow flowers, typically with five petals, and distinctive fruit capsules topped by persistent, star-like sepals.
