Lappula occidentalis Stickseed
EPHEMERAL ANNUAL. An inconspicuous weedy plant with tall thin
stems, narrow fuzzy leaves, tiny light blue to white flowers, and spiny,
five-sectioned seed capsules.. Two varieties, distinguised by the
shape of the seed capsules: var. occidentalis has capsules
shaped like pointed domes, with two rows of long spines on each section;
var. cupulata has the margins of each section inflated ,
with much shorter spines. Both varieties may be found growing together,
though var. occidentalis is more common. Blooms March-May;
gone by June. Common on disturbed ground, sand washes, etc.
FAMILY: Boraginaceae (Forget-me-not Family)