About Distimake aureus (Kellogg) A.R.Simões & Staples
Distimake aureus (Kellogg) A.R.Simões & Staples is a perennial deciduous woody vine. It may shed its leaves during periods of severe heat. Its leaves are palmate, with 5 oblong leaflets; the central, median leaflet is the largest of these. The leaflet edges are smooth and not serrated, which distinguishes this species from the local congener D. quinquefolius. D. quinquefolius has narrower serrated leaflets and white flowers, unlike this species. The flowers of D. aureus are trumpet-shaped, borne singly, and measure 3 to 8 cm (1.2 to 3.1 in) long. They are a bright yellow color. Each flower only blooms for one single day: it opens in the morning and closes by late afternoon. The fruit produced by this plant is a two-celled capsule that is 2 to 2.5 cm (0.79 to 0.98 in) wide. This species is endemic to the Mexican state of Baja California Sur. Its range extends from the area around Loreto southward to the Cape region of the Baja California peninsula, and it also occurs on several islands in the Gulf of California. The fleshy roots of Distimake aureus are edible. It is grown in cultivation as an ornamental plant. For cultivation, it requires full sun, low water availability, and well-drained soil. It is hardy to US Sunset Zones 12 through 24.
