About Caltha leptosepala DC.
Caltha leptosepala DC. is a perennial herb. It produces a mostly leafless stem, with all leaves growing at the base of the plant. Basal leaves can reach up to 13 to 15 centimeters (5 to 6 inches) in length, and their edges may be smooth, wrinkled, or toothed. The inflorescence holds one or more individual flowers. Each flower measures 1 to 4 centimeters (1/2 to 1 1/2 inches) wide. It has no true petals, instead featuring petal-like sepals that are most often white, but sometimes yellow. The center of the flower contains many long, flat stamens and a smaller number of pistils. This species is native to western North America, ranging from Alaska to New Mexico. It grows in wet mountain habitats in alpine and subalpine regions, thriving in moist to wet soils in partial shade. Its native habitats include wet alpine areas, subalpine meadows, stream edges, and bogs. The leaves of Caltha leptosepala contain toxic alkaloids, but elk still eat them. Some indigenous peoples of Alaska traditionally ate the plant's leaves and flower buds.
