Etymology: Triodanis: "Three teeth," referring to the seed
Plants: erect, annual, 4"-40" tall forb, usually unbranched
Leaves: rounded, clasping, usually toothed and with palmate veins
Flowers: blue to purple, 5-parted, 1/3"-1/2" wide, widely-spreading petals, center white with a protruding, white style; inflorescence of 1 to several, mostly stalkless flowers from the upper leaf axils; blooms May-Aug.
Fruits: oblong capsule
Habitat: dry; disturbed sites, cliffs; in sandy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 3, Wetland Indicator = FAC 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. David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key