Limnanthes is a genus of annual herbaceous plants commonly known as the meadowfoams. The nine species are all native to the coastal regions of western North America, where they typically grow in marshy habitats, such as the margins of vernal pools. Some are endemic to California

General form ranges from decumbent to erect, with leaves either pinnately lobed or compound; the lobes or leaflets may themselves range from entire to deeply lobed. Both 4- and 5-sepaled and petaled members are known.

The white meadowfoam Limnanthes alba is of commercial interest for its oil, while several other species are rare or endangered.

Species

Limnanthes alba
Limnanthes bakeri
Limnanthes douglasii
Limnanthes floccosa
Limnanthes gracilis
Limnanthes macounii
Limnanthes montana
Limnanthes striata
Limnanthes vinculans

References

• Jepson manual treatment: Limnanthes spp.
• USDA Limnanthes spp. Plants Profile

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