About Mentzelia laevicaulis (Douglas ex Hook.) Torr. & A.Gray
This species, Mentzelia laevicaulis, grows a branched stem that can reach up to one yard (3 feet) in height. Occasional triangular, sawtoothed leaves grow on the whitish-green main stem and its lateral branches. Each branch tip produces a large, striking yellow star-shaped flower. The flower has five narrow, pointed petals with shiny yellow surfaces, each up to 3 inches long. Long, thin yellow sepals grow between the petals. The center of the open flower is filled with many whiskery yellow stamens, and long, curling bracts lie beneath the petals. After flowering, the plant produces capsule fruits that hold winged seeds.
