Calyptridium umbellatum

Habit: mat-forming perennial growing from a branched crown. The dark green leaves resemble a spoon shape and grow in clustered basal rosettes. Numerous pinkish white flowers appear soft and fluffy in dense clusters on a short leafless stalk.  Flower stalk is either level to the ground or raised above the plant depending on the temperature of the surrounding soil. Flowers bloom from early to late summer.  The fruits are flattened capsules containing several shiny black seeds.

Ecology: found in open rocky, sandy areas and in ponderosa pine woodland at mid to high elevations, 5000-14,000 ft (1500-4300 m).

Growing Conditions: full sun to partial shade, coarse to sandy well-drained soil with low water.