Calyptridium umbellatum

Pussypaws

Pussypaws
aka Spraguea umbellata, Cistanthe umbellata. The prostrate mat of the Pussypaws hugs the barren rocky ground about as close as it can. The low rosette of fleshy bright green leaves minimizes exposure to wind while maximizing exposure to the sun. The naked unbranched stems, 3/4″ – 2.5″ (2 – 6 cm) long, terminate with the charming fuzzy ball-like flowerheads. The little “pompoms” are made up of white or pink flowers in a very intricate structure. Commonly found on dry rockly flats and slopes between 6,000′ to 9,000′ elevation.

Family:

Montiaceae - MINER'S LETTUCE FAMILY

Genus:

Calyptridium means 'cap' in reference to cap-like uniting of petals

Species:

umbellatum refers to 'umbel of flowers'
Photo location: Various locations including First Burroughs Mtn., the WLT west of Frozen Lake, talus slopes south of Skyscraper Pass. The last photo clearly shows a surprising large taproot.