Hinton's Ringstem (Anulocaulis hintoniorum)

Overview, Coahuila, Mexico. Photograph by Wynn Anderson.

 

Foliage and flower, Coahuila, Mexico. Photographs by Wynn Anderson.

• Common English Names: Hinton's Ringstem
• Common Spanish Names: None known
• Scientific Name: Anulocaulis hintoniorum (ann-noo-low-CALL-us hin-tone-nee-OH-tum)
• Family: Nyctaginaceae (Four-O'clock Family)
• Geographic Range: Chihuahuan Desert endemic plant known only from open shale slopes south of Parras in southern Coahuila, Mexico.
• Description: Perennial herb from woody roots, a few paired basal leaves and 1-2 divaricately branching stems rising 2-3 feet with mostly solitary, attractive, reddish purple flowers scattered through the inflorescence. A nocturnal bloomer, the flowers opening at dusk and closing by mid-morning.
• Notes: One of many plants named for the legendary Hinton family of Mexican botanists, a father, son, and now grandson from Nuevo León who have made significant contributions to Mexican botany.

Last Update: 30 Sep 2013