Etymology: Lithospermum: from Greek lithos, "stone," and sperma, "seed"
Plants: erect, perennial, 4"-18" tall forb; often as many as 5 stems, usually unbranched; stout taproot
Leaves: softly pale gray with a dense fuzz; mostly growing from opposite sides of the stem
Flowers: orange to yellow, 5-parted, 1/3"-1/2" wide, funnel-shaped, petal lips smooth; inflorescence 1-3 densely-flowered, branched, curving clusters (cymes); blooms April-June
Fruits: yellowish- white, smooth, shiny nutlet
Habitat: dry to moderate moisture; prairies, woods
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 10 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 Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key