About Sphaeralcea incana Torr. ex A.Gray
Plant Morphology
Sphaeralcea incana Torr. ex A.Gray is a perennial subshrub with a large taproot. It grows several to many erect stems from a stout woody crown, reaching 0.91–1.83 m (3–6 feet) in height.
Foliage Features
Its gray leaves are very densely covered in short scurfy hairs.
Flower Traits
Its flowers are most commonly a brilliant orange, and bloom from June through October; pink and white flowering forms also exist. In some locations, these plants can form carpets of flowers after a heavy winter rainy season.
Native Distribution
This species is native to the Chihuahuan Desert and Sonoran Desert ecoregions of the Southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it occurs in the states of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas (United States) and Chihuahua, Sonora (Mexico).
Ecological Role
Its flowers are of special value to native species of bees and butterflies.
Traditional Medicinal Uses
Sphaeralcea incana has a history of use as a medicinal plant, with traditional use by Native American groups including the Hopi, who traditionally used it to treat diarrhea. Leaves and flowers of the plant can be made into an herbal tea used to address respiratory irritations and flu.
Other Medicinal Properties
The roots and leaves are demulcent and emollient, and a poultice of fresh crushed leaves has been used to treat skin injuries or inflammations.
Cultivation Status
Sphaeralcea incana is cultivated as an ornamental plant by specialty plant nurseries.
Horticultural Applications
It is used in native plant gardens, water-conserving gardens, and wildlife gardens, as well as for natural landscaping projects.
