Aletes humilis
Aletes humilis | |
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Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
(unranked): | Angiosperms |
(unranked): | Eudicots |
(unranked): | Asterids |
Order: | Apiales |
Family: | Apiaceae |
Genus: | Aletes |
Species: | A. humilis |
Binomial name | |
Aletes humilis J.M.Coult. & Rose | |
Aletes humilis is a species of flowering plant in the carrot family known by the common names Colorado aletes and Larimer aletes. It is native to Colorado in the United States; it is also known from Wyoming, but there are no recent collections there.[1]
This plant forms a mound or cushion up to 10 centimeters tall by 20 wide. The thick, leathery, bright green leaves have toothed edges.[1][2] The leaves have a celery-like or "soapy" scent.[3] The short inflorescence has yellow flowers.
This plant grows in cracks and crevices on rock outcrops and cliffs. The habitat is dry.[2] The vegetation is a sparse mix of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). Other plants in the habitat include quaking aspen, fivepetal cliffbush kinnikinnick, common juniper, wax currant, littleflower alumroot, bigflower cinquefoil, mountain muhly, and needle and thread grass.[3]
This species was first discovered in Larimer County, Colorado, in the 1890s.[3] Today there are about 39 known occurrences.[1]
References
- 1 2 3 Aletes humilis. The Nature Conservancy.
- 1 2 Aletes humilis. Center for Plant Conservation.
- 1 2 3 Moore, L. and S. Friedley. Aletes humilis Coult. & Rose (Colorado aletes): A Technical Conservation Assessment. Prepared for the USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region, Species Conservation Project. September 24, 2004.