Collinsia multicolor Lindl. & Paxton

Scientific Name

Collinsia multicolor Lindl. & Paxton

Plant Stem Characteristics

Collinsia multicolor is an annual herb that grows a delicate, slender stem 30 to 60 centimeters tall. The upper sections of the stem are hairy and sticky from glandular tissue.

Leaf Structure

Its leaves are arranged oppositely along the stem, are triangular lance-shaped with serrated edges, and each opposing pair clasps the stem at their point of attachment.

Inflorescence Arrangement

The inflorescence is made up of a series of whorls or clusters of flowers: the lower series holds one or two flowers, while the upper portion holds several flowers arranged in a whorl. Each flower grows from a pedicel.

Corolla Features

The corolla measures between one and two centimeters long, with two white upper lobes that are sometimes dotted with purple, and three lower lobes that range from lavender to purple.

Taxonomic History

This species was first described by English architect Joseph Paxton, in collaboration with John Lindley.