Chorizanthe brevicornu Torr.

Nomenclature and Common Name

Chorizanthe brevicornu Torr., commonly known as brittle spineflower, is a flowering plant species in the buckwheat family.

Native Distribution

It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it is widely distributed and most abundant in desert regions.

Growth Form and Bloom Period

This is an annual herb that typically blooms from February to May. It grows an erect, greenish, largely leafless, highly branching stem.

Leaf Arrangement

Most of its leaves emerge from the base of the plant, with only a few small leaves growing along the stem.

Inflorescence and Flower Characteristics

A tube-shaped inflorescence forms at the end of each of its many branches, which opens into a tiny white or greenish-yellow flower just a few millimeters wide.

Seed Dispersal Mechanisms

This species relies on wind and small mammals for seed dispersal. The brittle texture of the plant allows its inflorescences to break apart, which helps spread seeds across arid landscapes.

Recognized Varieties

Two varieties of C. brevicornu are currently recognized: C. brevicornu var. brevicornu and C. brevicornu var. spathulata.