Arnica acaulis (Walt.) BSP. - Leopard's Bane
Family - Asteraceae
Stems:
Leaves:
Basal leaves in-situ.
Inflorescence:
N/A
Involucre:
Involucre.
Flowers:
Flowering - March - June.
Habitat - Savannahs, pine barrens, open woods.
Origin - Native to North America.
Other information - This attractive species is rare in Alabama and has only been reported in one county thus far. The plant can be identified by its basal leaves, glandular pubescent stems, linear, uniseriate phyllaries, and big flowerheads.
The genus name "Arnica" is thought to be an old name which was a corruption of the word "ptarmica", which means "to make sneeze."
The species epithet, "acaulis" is derived from the Latin "a" meaning "no" and "caul (is)" meaning "stem", referring to the plant's habit before it quickly bolts and flowers.
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken somewhere in North Carolina, 4-27-03.