Emmenanthe penduliflora – “Whispering Bells”

Family: Waterleaf (Hydrophyllaceae)
Bloom Period: Feb-Jun
Form: Annual herb
Habitat: Gravelly soils
Leaves: Linear, deeply toothed or lobed; alternate
Translation: “Emmenanthe” is Greek for “abiding flower,” which refers to the fact that the flower stays on the stem as it fades; “penduliflora” is Latin for “hanging flower,” which refers to the pendulous blossoms.
Notes: Most prominent in recently burned-over areas, suggesting that seed germination is stimulated by fire or the presence of burned plant material.
Animal Associations: Host plant for Annaphila astrologa moth.