Etymology: Lithospermum: from Greek lithos, "stone," and sperma, "seed"
Plants: erect, perennial, 4"-20" tall forb with many branches; woody taproot
Leaves: many, long, narrow, grass-like
Flowers: pale yellow, 5-parted, 1/3"-3/4" wide, funnel-shaped, petal lips fringed; inflorescence with short-stalked flowers crowded in the upper leaf axils; blooms May-June
Fruits: white, shiny nutlet with a few pits
Habitat: dry; prairies, barrens; in rocky, sandy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 8 Atlas of the Wisconsin Prairie and Savanna Flora: by T.S. Cochrane & H.H. Iltis: habitat, distribution infomation / flowering and fruiting times USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos