Hooveria parviflora is a species of perennial herb known by the common name smallflower soap plant. It is a monocot, native to coastal southern California and Baja California, where it is a member of the coastal sage scrub flora. It resembles a smaller version of Chlorogalum pomeridianum, with wavy leaves and white flowers that open during the day.
Description
Hooveria parviflora is a perennial wildflower, growing from a bulb wide. The bulb is covered in a dark brown, membranous coat. The leaves emerge from the top of the bulb, and are long and narrow, with wavy margins, wide.
The inflorescence is tall, with ascending to erect branches. There are several flowers or buds per node. The pedicels, which suspend the flowers, are long. On the flower, the perianth parts spread from above the base, and are colored a white to pink, with a darker midvein. The perianth is in length, and the stamens are long. Atop the stamens are yellow anthers. The style is long. The fruits are large, with 1 to 2 black, ovoid seeds per chamber.
The flower opens in the morning, and is closed by the evening, only being open for a single day.
Taxonomy
This species was described as Chlorogalum parviflorum by Sereno Watson. Phylogenetic research placed this species in a new taxa, Hooveria, separating it from Chlorogalum.
Distribution and habitat
This species is native to California and Baja California. In California, it is primarily found on the coast of far Southern California, and is particularly common around San Diego. In Baja California, the plant is uncommon, and is only found in the extreme northwest of the state.
References
External links
Calflora Database: Chlorogalum parviflorum (small flowered soaproot) Jepson Manual eFlora (TJM2) treatment of Chlorogalum parviflorum USDA Plants Profile for Chlorogalum parviflorum (small flowered soaproot) Flora of North America UC Photos gallery — Chlorogalum parviflorum