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Mentzelia albicaulis

Mentzelia albicaulis
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
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Mentzelia albicaulis (Mentzelia albicaulis) — botanical photograph
Pl. DDE5 — Mentzelia albicaulis
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Overview

Mentzelia albicaulis, known as Skip, is an annual forb or herb native to the western United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in a variety of habitats including Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, and several regions of Mexico. This plant is notable for its edible seeds, which can be harvested and consumed. Skip prefers full sun, tolerates both dry and moist conditions, and grows well in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. Standing at a height of 0.3 meters, it stands out with its distinctive white flowers that add ornamental value to the landscape.

Quick answers

What is Mentzelia albicaulis?

Mentzelia albicaulis, known as Skip, is an annual forb or herb native to the western United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in a variety of habitats including Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, and several regions of Mexico.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Mentzelia albicaulis thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. This annual plant grows to a height of 0.3 meters and is suitable for cultivation as an edible seed source. Given its native range across various regions including Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, it is generally hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, direct seeding is recommended.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Mentzelia albicaulis for the first time

8steps

Start with basic care for Mentzelia albicaulis, focusing on sun and soil.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for outdoor planting.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the garden, covering them lightly with soil. For containers, use a pot at least 15 cm deep.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid overwatering.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun and regular watering during dry spells, especially when seedlings are young.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain a neat appearance. Remove any yellowing leaves as needed.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting sun exposure, not providing enough space for growth.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seeds of Mentzelia albicaulis are edible and can be eaten raw or roasted. They are often collected from the ground around mature plants and used as a snack or added to meals for a nutty flavor.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

18 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 18 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Mentzelia albicaulis (Mentzelia albicaulis) — botanical photograph
Mentzelia albicaulis (Mentzelia albicaulis)
XI

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