`Plains' Blackfoot Daisy (Melampodium leucanthum)

Abstract

Blackfoot Daisy (Melampodium leucanthum Torr. & Gray) is a common wildflower native to much of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Colorado (Stuessy, 1972). This perennial subshrub is characterized by a tight mound of white composite flowers with golden centers and linear leaves. Correll and Johnston (1970) have reported that this attractive native plant flourishes in calcareous gravely soils. Indigenous to regions receiving 40 to 70 cm of annual rainfall, Blackfoot Daisy is found along roadsides in the high plains, shortgrass prairies, uplands, and on limestone outcroppings exhibiting disturbed soils of the southwestern U.S. (Borland, 1998). The long period of bloom and tolerance to the heat and drought of its native environment make this plant desirable for use in water-conserving landscapes. The unusual name Blackfoot Daisy is derived from the foot-shaped bract that surrounds the seed and turns black at maturity (Diggs et al., 1999). Blackfoot Daisy occurs as both a diploid and a tetraploid that are morphologically indistinguishable. Turner and King (1961) suggest the ploidy level does not appear to be influenced by geography or ecologic conditions. Populations of both ploidy levels have been found growing among each other. In 1996, we initiated a breeding project to identify wildflowers with potential for landscape use in demanding environments. Accessions with outstanding attributes were collected and selection trials conducted over several seasons. ‘Plains’ Blackfoot Daisy is the first formal release from our program. It was developed through 6 years of recurrent phenotypic selection for increased branching, compact growth habit and increased floral density. The unique, reflexed flower form is a distinguishing trait that helps to distinguish ‘Plains’ Blackfoot Daisy from other Melampodium leucanthum genotypes. Description