About Pectis papposa Harv. & A.Gray
Pectis papposa Harv. & A.Gray is an annual herb that reaches 5–20 centimetres (2–8 inches) in height, and produces branched stems. Its leaves grow up to 4 cm (1+1⁄2 inches) long, and are less than 3 millimetres (1⁄8 inch) wide. It blooms from July to October, bearing yellow flower heads 1.5 cm (1⁄2 inch) wide. Each flower head holds 7–9 ray florets surrounding a small central disk, and its bracts carry 3–7 glands. The fruit of Pectis papposa is a narrow seed. Dense clusters of its flowers produce a distinct lemon scent. This species is native to desert regions of the southwestern United States, ranging east to Texas, and northern Mexico, and it typically flowers after summer monsoon rains. In years with favorable conditions, it becomes an aspect dominant species, turning large areas of desert yellow with its blooms. Ecologically, Pectis papposa acts as a host plant for the beet leafhopper. It is sold in Mexican markets under the common name limoncillo, and is used in small quantities to add flavor to meat.
