About Nuttallanthus canadensis (L.) D.A.Sutton
Nuttallanthus canadensis (L.) D.A.Sutton is an annual or biennial plant that reaches 25–80 cm (9.8–31.5 in) in height, and produces slender, erect flowering stems. Its leaves are slender, measuring 15–30 mm (0.59–1.18 in) long and 1–2.5 mm (0.04–0.10 in) broad. Flowers range in color from purple to off-white, are 10–15 mm (0.39–0.59 in) long, and bloom from mid spring to late summer. This species is grown as an ornamental plant within its native area. It has been introduced to western North America and Europe, and is now locally naturalized from Washington south to California, and also in Russia. It typically grows in bare areas and grassland. Ecologically, this plant acts as a nectar source for bees and butterflies. It supports the larvae of the common buckeye, and its leaves also serve as a food source for caterpillars.
