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One-Seeded Pussypaws (Cistanthe monosperma)

One-seeded pussypaws (Cistanthe monosperma, formerly Calyptridium monospermum) is a North American plant which thrives in gravely soil and raises or lowers its flowers in order to thermoregulate. This common perennial herb is often mistaken for the very similar Mount Hood pussypaws (Cistanthe umbellata), but can be differentiated by multiple stems branching from a single rosette. Some resources place this plant in the miner's lettuce family (Montiaceae).


One-seeded pussypaws (Cistanthe monosperma), exceptionally vibrant specimens with a raised stem. Tahoe National Forest, Sierra Nevada, Nevada County, California, USA.
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One-seeded pussypaws (Cistanthe monosperma), highly detailed close-up of a single inflorescence (cluster of flowers). Carson Pass, Eldorado National Forest, Sierra Nevada, Alpine County, California, USA.
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One-seeded pussypaws (Cistanthe monosperma), overhead documentary view depicting the entire plant. With sunset and its associated cooler temperatures approaching, the plant has lowered its flowers to the still-warm ground in an act of thermoregulation. Carson Pass, Eldorado National Forest, Sierra Nevada, Alpine County, California, USA.
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Next Plant: Western spring beauty (Claytonia lanceolata)



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All images copyright Timothy Boomer. All rights reserved worldwide.