Collomia linearis is a species of flowering plant in the family Polemoniaceae, commonly referred to as narrow‑leaf collomia. It is native to western North America, where it occurs in a variety of open and semi‑arid habitats.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Angiosperms → Eudicots → Asterids
- Order: Ericales
- Family: Polemoniaceae
- Genus: Collomia
- Species: C. linearis
The authority for the name is generally cited as A. Gray, though taxonomic revisions may affect its circumscription.
Description
Collomia linearis is an annual herb that typically reaches 10–30 cm in height. Key morphological characteristics include:
- Stem: Erect, slender, often branched near the top.
- Leaves: Linear to narrowly lanceolate, opposite or whorled, measuring 1–3 cm long; the epithet linearis refers to this narrow leaf shape.
- Inflorescence: Terminal raceme or solitary flowers on short pedicels.
- Flowers: Tubular corollas 8–12 mm long, opening into a shallowly bell‑shaped limb with five lobes. Corolla color ranges from pale pink to violet‑blue; the throat may display a contrasting yellow or white throat.
- Fruit: A small, dehiscent capsule containing numerous minute seeds.
Distribution and Habitat
Collomia linearis is documented from the following regions:
- United States: California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado.
- Canada: Limited reports from southern British Columbia.
It commonly inhabits open grasslands, sagebrush steppe, montane meadows, and disturbed sites such as roadsides. The species is adapted to well‑drained soils and typically occurs at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,500 m.
Ecology
The flowers are visited by a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which facilitate cross‑pollination. As an annual, the plant completes its life cycle within a single growing season, producing seeds that persist in the soil seed bank.
Conservation Status
There is no widespread assessment indicating that Collomia linearis is globally threatened. In many parts of its range, it is considered locally common. However, specific population trends have not been comprehensively documented; therefore, regional conservation assessments may be required.
Uses
There are no widely reported ethnobotanical or horticultural uses for Collomia linearis. Its modest size and attractive flowers occasionally lead to inclusion in native plant gardens focused on wildflower displays.
References
- Flora of North America, vol. 8, Polemoniaceae.
- Jepson Manual Treatment of Collomia linearis.
- USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) PLANTS Database.
Note: Where detailed information is limited or subject to taxonomic revision, the statement “Accurate information is not confirmed” applies.