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Gooseberryleaf globe mallow, Sphaeralcea
grossulariifolia (Hook. & Arn.) Rydb.
(left). This plant is sometimes considered a weed because
of its casual growth along trails and roadsides. If one believes that weeds
are competitive, harmful plants then this plant is getting a bad press. It
is non-aggressive and its five-petaled orange flowers brighten the landscape.
The Greek sphaera means “globe” and alcea for the
name of the hollyhock. The species name grossulariifolia is also from
the Latin and means “gooseberry leafs,” from the similarity of
this plant’s leaves to those of the common gooseberry.
Streambank globe mallow, Iliamna
rivularis (Douglas ex
Hook.) Greene (right). This mallow is sometimes referred
to as a wild hollyhock (although true hollyhocks are in genus Alcea).
The name Iliamna apparently came from an Athabaskan word, used for
Lake Iliamna in Alaska; rivularis, means “of brooklets.”
The latter is an apt term, for this lovely montane plant blooms in mid-summer
along streams, and in dry creek beds. Its showy pink flowers, the
flowers’ staminate tubes, and alternating maple-like leaves identify
the plant. |
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