Balsamorhiza macrophylla

Common name: Cutleaf balsamroot, Bigleaf balsamroot, Hairy balsamroot

http://watchingtheworldwakeup.blogspot.com/2008/06/yellow-flowers-are-complicated.html

http://herbarium.uvu.edu/virtual/viewer.asp?file=10272s2.jpg&title=Balsamorhiza+macrophylla

B. macrophylla:

This species of Balsamorhiza is named and recognized for its deeply lobed, or segmented leaves. These leaves are large, growing up to 2 feet, and clustered at the base of the plant. The leaves are slightly hairy, thus the common name hairy balsamroot. The flowering stems of the plant are leafless. The flowers bloom in May and are made of both ray and disc flowers, placing them in the Asteraceae (sunflower) family.

Image from Tree of Life.org: http://tolweb.org/Asteraceae/20780

Above image from Utah Valley State College Herbarium. A herbarium is a collection of preserved specimens used for identification and study of specific plant species.

Ecology of Balsamorhiza macrophylla:

Balsamorhiza macrophylla is found in sagebrush and grassland habitats. It is distributed in elevations ranging from 4500 - 7000 feet, throughout Utah, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. It is strongly drought resistant and highly tolerant of grazing and trampling.

B. macrophylla provides forage for sheep and big game, their flowers are highly palatable. Horses are especially fond of the flowers.

Historically, Cheyenne Indians had several uses for Balsamorhiza macrophylla plants. They boiled the leaves, roots, and stems for the treatment of stomach pains by both inhaling the vapors and drinking the mixture. They ground the ripe seeds into flour and ate the roots raw or boiled.

  

Image from Mountain Plants of Northeastern Utah

Sources:

 

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Utah Vegetation Online Manual - by Rachelle Ridge- 00228130- Biology 5460 Fall 2010