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IIIFolio · plant profile№ 32CFedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 22 Oct 2026methodology → read

Narrowleaf Pectis

Pectis angustifolia
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Pectis angustifolia (Narrowleaf Pectis) — botanical photograph
Pl. 32CF — Pectis angustifolia
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Overview

Narrowleaf Pectis (Pectis angustifolia) is an annual forb or herb native to the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico, specifically found in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in a variety of habitats, from dry to moist conditions, and can be cultivated in well-drained soils with a pH between 5.9 and 7.2. Known for its edible leaves and shoots, Narrowleaf Pectis requires full sun and prefers light (sandy) or medium soil types. It grows to a height of about 0.3 meters, making it a manageable size for gardens or landscapes. This plant is hardy in temperate regions, making it suitable for cultivation across its native range. For cultivation, sow seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Harvest edible leaves and shoots throughout the growing season. While not medicinal, Narrowleaf Pectis can be used as a condiment in culinary applications. Its distinctive yellow flowers and green foliage provide both ornamental and practical value, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Narrowleaf Pectis?

Narrowleaf Pectis (Pectis angustifolia) is an annual forb or herb native to the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico, specifically found in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Narrowleaf Pectis thrives in full sun and prefers light to medium soil with a pH between 5.9 and 7.2. It can tolerate both dry and moist conditions but needs well-drained soil to prevent root rot. The plant is hardy in temperate regions, making it suitable for gardens across its native range in the western United States and parts of Mexico. For cultivation, sow seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Harvest edible leaves and shoots throughout the growing season.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
5.9–7.2
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Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: Condiment
Other uses:DyeFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

11 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 11 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, Wyoming
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Pectis angustifolia (Narrowleaf Pectis) — botanical photograph
Narrowleaf Pectis (Pectis angustifolia)
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Explore further

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