Plant Data

Names and Taxonomy

  • Common Names: purplemat, purple mat
  • Synonyms:
  • Family: Boraginaceae (Forget-Me-Not)
  • Genus Information: 2 species in NV 2 varities, 2 in CA, 45 in US

Habit and Size

  • Duration: annual
  • Habit: forb
  • Shape: prostate
  • Size: 3 inches high, 8-12 inches wide
  • Stem: red, hairy

Leaves

  • Color: red to dark green, hairy
  • Shape: lanceolate
  • Edge: hairy
  • Arrangement: opposite
  • Leaf Retention: deciduous

Flowers and Fruit

  • Sex: monoecious
  • Flower Color: purple
  • Flower Size: 1/2 inch
  • Number of Petals: purple
  • Bloom: Feb, Mar, Apr, May
  • Fruit: capsule

Habitat and Growing Conditions

  • Water Use: low
  • Light:
  • Soil:
  • Habitat: sandy washes and flats

Distribution

  • Distribution: AZ, CA, NV, UT
  • Seen: Death Valley
  • Elevation: 2000-5500 ft (800-2000 m)

Photographs