Keckiella rothrockii (A.Gray) Straw

Taxonomy and Common Name

Keckiella rothrockii (A.Gray) Straw is a species of flowering plant in the plantain family, commonly known as Rothrock's keckiella.

Distribution

It is native to the desert mountains of southeastern California and adjacent Nevada, where it grows in sagebrush and woodland habitats.

General Growth Form

It is a short, wide shrub that reaches a maximum height of around half a meter.

Stem and Leaf Characteristics

Its hairy green stems hold small oval-shaped leaves that grow up to 1.5 centimeters long.

Flower Coloration

The flowers of this species can range in color from brownish to yellow to cream, and are sometimes marked with dull purple or brown stripes.

Flower Morphology

Each flower grows up to about 2 centimeters long, with curling lobes at its opening.

Internal Flower Structure

Inside the tubular flower are stamens, including a flat, sterile stamen called a staminode.