Mojave Sun Cup, Field Primrose
Camissonia campestrisThe Mojave Sun Cup, or Field Primrose (Camissonia campestris), is a lovely wildflower native to the Mojave Desert and surrounding areas in California. It's part of the evening primrose family (Onagraceae) and often adds splashes of yellow to desert landscapes, particularly in spring.
Appearance:
The Mojave Sun Cup has small, bright yellow flowers with four petals, sometimes with red spots at the base. The plant is relatively low-growing, typically reaching around 6-12 inches in height.Habitat:
It thrives in sandy or gravelly soils, often in open desert flats or low hills. You can find it blooming after winter rains, making it a typical sight in places like the Mojave Desert, where its vivid color contrasts beautifully with the stark desert environment.Bloom Time:
It blooms in early spring, generally from February to May, depending on rainfall and climate conditions.Pollinators:
Like many desert flowers, the Mojave Sun Cup attracts various pollinators, including bees, moths, and butterflies, which help the plant thrive in its dry, challenging environment.This little plant is a perfect example of the adaptability of desert flora, using its bright blooms to capture the attention of pollinators in an otherwise harsh, dry landscape.
Photo taken at Joshua Tree National Park
