Miner's Lettuce
Claytonia perfoliata
Photographed at Peppersauce Canyon, Sta Catalina Mts., Pinal Co., Arizona. 17 April 2010.
LEAVES: The smooth, sometimes shiny leaves are opposite on the stems
while the leaves directly below the flower clusters are perfoliate, i.e. joined
at the stem and thus encircling the stem. The remaining, lower leaves have
normal petioles.
FLOWERS: Small white flowers are borne in small clusters at the center
of the
perfoliate leaves.
ANNUAL HERB: Succulent green leaves and stem offer a crisp veggie treat
to hikers or miners. Apparent from February to early April, .
UNARMED.
RANGE: Among the rocks and cliff faces adjacent to canyons particularily
where there is shade and some seasonal dripping water.