Arnica acaulis Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Arnica acaulis (Walt.) BSP. – Leopard’s Bane

Arnica acaulis plant

FamilyAsteraceae

Stems:

Arnica acaulis stem

Leaves:

Arnica acaulis leaves

Arnica acaulis basalsBasal leaves in-situ.

Inflorescence:

N/A

Involucre:

Arnica acaulis involucreInvolucre.

Flowers:

Arnica acaulis flowers

Flowering – March – June.

Habitat – Savannahs, pine barrens, open woods.

Origin – Native to North America.

Other information – This attractive species is rare in Alabama and has only been reported in one county thus far. The plant can be identified by its basal leaves, glandular pubescent stems, linear, uniseriate phyllaries, and big flowerheads.
The genus name “Arnica” is thought to be an old name which was a corruption of the word “ptarmica”, which means “to make sneeze.”
The species epithet, “acaulis” is derived from the Latin “a” meaning “no” and “caul (is)” meaning “stem”, referring to the plant’s habit before it quickly bolts and flowers.

Alabama Distribution:

Arnica acaulis map

Photographs taken somewhere in North Carolina, 4-27-03.