Erigeron bloomeri is a nice little rayless erigeron found in dry sights in WA, OR, CA, UT, ID, and NV.
http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250066563
http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=ERBL
http://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Erigeron+b...
Comments
Re: Erigeron bloomeri
John, really good photos of a great little Erigeron. One imagines an ugly plant when hearing the description "rayless Erigeron", but this is a surprisingly fine species, with showy and substantial golden buttonheads that remind me of Chaenactis douglasii var. alpina (http://calphotos.berkeley.edu/cgi/img_query?enlarge=0000+0000+0407+3283) or Alpine Dusty Maidens (such a memorable common name).
When I lived in Washington State, this bright little species was often encountered in my wildflower travels. It also proved easy enough to grow, making an excellent trough subject.
Re: Erigeron bloomeri
A very interesting plant, John! Thanks for posting it. Are the dry sites where it occurs usually at pretty high elevations?
Re: Erigeron bloomeri
Lori
They are usually found around eastern Nevada between 3200'-7500' (1000-2300m) on rocky, semi-stable, clay slopes and ridges. The larger populations sighted with northern of eastern aspects but not restricted to these sights. I am sure seed germination is better, due to slower evaporation of spring moisture.
Re: Erigeron bloomeri
An interesting plant! Each flowerhead individually reminds me of of some weeds we have here :o but the whole plant is quite different and rather attractive ;)
John - I shall keep a lookout for that; distinctive plant. Lovely photos.