Luetkea

Luetkea is a genus of flowering plants in the rose family, known as Rosaceae. The genus currently contains a single recognized species, Luetkea pectinata, commonly known as the partridgeberry or Rocky Mountain partridgeberry. This species is native to the alpine and subalpine regions of western North America, extending from Alaska and western Canada south to California and Colorado. Luetkea pectinata is a low-growing, mat-forming evergreen shrub that typically inhabits rocky slopes, scree fields, and open woodlands. Its leaves are small, linear, and arranged in a feather-like or comb-like fashion, which gives rise to the specific epithet "pectinata." The plant produces small, white, five-petaled flowers in racemes during the summer months. Following flowering, it develops small, dry capsules containing seeds. Luetkea pectinata is adapted to harsh, cold environments and plays a role in stabilizing soil in its high-altitude habitat. It is sometimes used in rock gardens or for ornamental purposes by those familiar with its specific horticultural needs. The genus was named in honor of Fyodor Lutke, a Russian admiral and explorer.