Hesperidanthus linearifolius, syn.Schoenocrambe linearifolia, is a species of flowering plant in the mustard family,[2] known by the common names slimleaf plainsmustard, slimleaf purple mustard,[3] and mountain mustard.[2] It can be found in the western United States in New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and west Texas, as well as in northern Mexico.[1][4]
Hesperidanthus linearifolius is a perennialherb that produces a raceme of purple flowers, each with four spoon-shaped petals.[5] This tall, slender plant can grow to approximately 4 feet (1.2 meters) tall.[6] It has one or more erect stems that frequently branch near the top.[1]
Before blooming, plants in their first year have a basal rosette of oblanceolate leaves 5–10 centimeters (2.0–3.9 inches) in length.[5][7] Leaves on the stem are alternate, hairless, short-petiolate and have smooth margins and pointed tips.[3][7] Leaves lower on the stem are oblanceolate, while leaves higher on the stem are more linear,[5] at about 3.5–5 centimeters (1.4–2.0 inches) in length and 6 millimeters (1⁄4 inch) in width.[7]
The fruit is a long, slender capsule[5] (silique)[2] that is usually straight and roughly 4–9 centimeters (1.6–3.5 inches) long.[1]
Ecology
This mustard grows at elevations of 700–3,100 meters (2,300–10,200ft).[3] It grows in dry climates, often in sandy or rocky soils.[7] It occurs on disturbed sites such as roadsides, and in desert shrub, pinyon-juniper, and montane conifer forest plant communities.[3][8] It flowers between mid-spring and late fall.[2]
Uses
Infusions of the leaves have been used as a ceremonial eyewash and as a treatment for sore gums by the Ramah Navajo.[9]
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