Murdock's Evening Primrose
Oenothera murdockii
Other common names: Chinle evening-primrose
NatureServe conservation status
Global (G-rank): G2
State (S-rank): S2
Utah Wildlife Action Plan status
- SGCN
External links
General information
Oenothera murdockii is a fascinating plant able to withstand the harsh environment that is the Chinle muds, adapting to the poor water availability and unique soil chemistry that only a few number of tough endemic plants can survive. This species was named after the late Joseph Richard (Dick) Murdock, who first collected the plant near the Paria townsite in 1957.
Description
Oenothera murdockii is an acaulescent annual or winter annual. It stems from a heavily lignified taproot and simple root-crown which persists following death. The leaves are basal, subentire (more commonly toothed or pinnatifid), and
Phenology
This plant blooms between April and May. Most collections were made during early to mid-May.
Diagnostic characteristics
This species is often mistaken for Oenethera flava. Oenethera murdockii can be distinguished by its annual life cycle, lignified root-shoot axis and smaller flowers.
Species range
A Dixie Divide endemic, this plant can be found in Kane and Washington counties.
Map
Threats or limiting factors
The main threats are from habitat degradation due to grazing, drought, and recreation.
Taxonomy
No, this species does not have taxonomic discrepancies