Calycadenia micrantha is an uncommon species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae known by the common name small-flowered calycadenia. It is endemic to California, where it is known from about 13 occurrences that are widely spread over several counties, including Napa, Siskiyou, Shasta, Mendocino, Trinity, and Monterey Counties, with several populations known in Lake County.Silversword Alliance: Calycadenia micranthaThe Nature ConservancyCalflora taxon report, University of California, Calycadenia micrantha R.L. Carr and G.D. Carr small flowered calycadenia It was described to science as a species in 2004.Carr, R. L. and G. D. Carr. (2004). A new species of Calycadenia (Asteraceae) from north central California. Sida 21 259-265. includes color photos Some specimens of the plant had previously been included within the description of its relative, Calycadenia truncata.Flora of North America, Calycadenia micrantha The fact that it has been found in relatively far-flung locations suggests it could easily be present in other areas between them and, as a newly classified species, has simply not been reported yet.
This annual plant produces a slender purplish stem 10 to 50 centimeters tall. The hairy leaves are 2 to 5 centimeters long. The inflorescence is a single flower head or small cluster of heads, each with 1 to 6 three-lobed yellow ray florets. Unlike other Calycadenia species, this plant is self-compatible, or able to fertilize itself.
References
External links Jepson Manual Treatment