Plant Data

Names and Taxonomy

  • Common Names: Browneyes, Brown-eyed Primrose, Clavatefruit Suncup
  • Synonyms: Camissonia claviformis (Torr. & Frém.) P.H.Raven, Oenothera claviformis Torr. & Frém., Camissonia claviformis, Oenothera scapoidea var. claviformis, Chylismia scapoidea var. claviformis
  • Family: Onagraceae (Evening Primrose)
  • Genus Information: 16 species of Camissonia in Mojave Desert and North America. There are many subspecies.

Habit and Size

  • Duration: annual
  • Habit: forb
  • Shape: upright
  • Size: up to 24 inches
  • Stem: red

Leaves

  • Color: white
  • Shape: lanceolate, cordate, often with brownish splotches
  • Edge: toothed
  • Arrangement: alternate, basal
  • Leaf Retention: drought deciduous

Flowers and Fruit

  • Sex: monoecious
  • Flower Color: white, brown
  • Flower Size:
  • Number of Petals:
  • Bloom: Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun
  • Fruit:

Habitat and Growing Conditions

  • Water Use: low
  • Light: full sun
  • Soil: well drained
  • Habitat: washes and rocky hillsides

Distribution

  • Distribution: AZ, CA, ID, NV, NM, OR, UT, Baja
  • Seen: Death Valley
  • Elevation: up to 4000 ft

Photographs

Browneyes (Chylismia claviformis)

Dantes Overlook, Death Valley

Browneyes (Chylismia claviformis)

Dantes Overlook, Death Valley

Browneyes (Chylismia claviformis)

Dantes Overlook, Death Valley