Miner's Lettuce
Claytonia perfoliata
Observed near Superior, Pinal Co., Arizona, March 2017.
LEAVES: Paired opposite leaves below the
flower clusters are perfoliate, i.e. joined at the stem ... they encircle the
stem. The remaining, lower leaves have normal petioles.
FLOWERS: Minute white flowers borne in small clusters at the center of
the perfoliate leaves.
ANNUAL HERB: Succulent green leaves and stem offer a crisp veggie treat for
hikers or miners. Apparent from Jan. to early April, but only in years with adequate precipitation.
UNARMED.
RANGE: Frequent throughout the Sonoran Desert in Arizona and Mexico on
steep, north-facing hillsides where moisture is seeping from crevices.