Wavyleaf mentzelia
NameWavyleaf mentzelia
Scientific NameMentzelia sinuata
Common NamesWavyleaf mentzelia, Wavyleaf blazingstar
Plant FamilyLoasaceae
Natural HabitatFound in dry, sandy, or gravelly soils, often in desert scrub, grasslands, and open woodlands across the southwestern United States. It thrives in arid and semi-arid environments.
Parts Usedleaf,seed
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory
Traditional UsesWhile not extensively documented for Mentzelia sinuata specifically, some Mentzelia species were traditionally used by Native American tribes in poultices for skin irritations and wounds. Seeds of some species were also consumed as food.
Preparation Methodspoultice,powder
Contraindications & WarningsNone widely documented due to limited medicinal use and research.
Cultivation NotesPrefers full sun and well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils. It is drought-tolerant and well-suited to xeriscaping in arid regions.
Raritycommon
Description
An annual herb characterized by its rough, bristly stems and distinctive wavy-margined leaves. It produces pale yellow, star-shaped flowers, typically opening in the afternoon.
