APRIL-JUNE

Narrowleaf Gromwell Lithospermum incisum Lehm. (BORAGE FAMILY)

Narrowleaf gromwell is an erect, bristly perennial 6-18 in. tall with appressed pubescence. The alternate, simple leaves are linear to narrowly linear-lanceolate and are densely bristly. The inflorescence is a leafy raceme of yellow tubular flowers with 5 petals. The salverform corolla has 5 rounded lobes crinkled on the lacerate edges. The corolla falls off when the flower is handled. The fruit is a hard, shiny, white nutlet. The red root of this species may be eaten cooked or used to make a dye.