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Many-stem Goldenweed - Stenotus multicaulis
Other Names:
Oonopsis multicaulis, Haplopappus multicaulis
State Rank Reason (see State Rank above)
Though restricted in distribution in Montana to Carter County, it is common in some habitats, including along some roadsides at least on BLM lands. No apparent, substantial threats to the species' viability in the state exist.
General Description
Many-stemmed goldenweed is a rhizomatous perennial herb with numerous stems, 5-10 cm (2-4 in) high, arising from a profusely branched, woody rootcrown. The alternate, narrowly spoon-shaped leaves, 2-8 cm (1-3 in) long, become smaller upward. Foliage is covered with soft hair early in the year but is glabrous later on. 1-4 flower heads form an open, terminal inflorescence. The vase-shaped heads have ca. 13 overlapping, narrowly elliptic involucral bracts, 7-10 mm high; 6-8 yellow ray flowers, 5-8 mm long; and ca. 18 yellow disk flowers. The seeds have few, thin, stiff bristles on top (pappus).
Whereas Lesica (2012) maintains there is not strong support to segregate this speices into the genus Oonopsis, Dr. Gregory Brown (University of WY, pers. comm.), who is monographing the genus, recognizes Oonopsis.
Diagnostic Characteristics
This species could be confused with species of Senecio, but it has fewer involucral bracts. The small stature, multiple heads per stem, and narrow leaves up to 5 mm wide separate this species from other Haplopappus. A hand lens or microscope and technical key are essential for determination.
Species Range
Montana Range
Range Descriptions
Native
Observations in Montana Natural Heritage Program Database
Number of Observations: 12
(Click on the following maps and charts to see full sized version)
Map Help and Descriptions
Relative Density
Recency
(Observations spanning multiple months or years are excluded from time charts)
Habitat
Sparsely-vegetated, shale-derived soil of grasslands or sagebrush steppe on the plains.
Stewardship Responsibility
References
- Literature Cited AboveLegend:
View Online Publication- Lesica, P., M.T. Lavin, and P.F. Stickney. 2012. Manual of Montana Vascular Plants. Fort Worth, TX: BRIT Press. viii + 771 p.
- Additional ReferencesLegend: View Online Publication
Do you know of a citation we're missing?
Lesica, P., M.T. Lavin, and P.F. Stickney. 2022. Manual of Montana Vascular Plants, Second Edition. Fort Worth, TX: BRIT Press. viii + 779 p.
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