Pentantha

Pentantha is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the daisy family. The genus currently contains a single species, Pentantha johnstonii. This plant is native to the southwestern United States, specifically found in Arizona and New Mexico. It typically grows in arid and semi-arid environments, often on rocky slopes or in sandy soils.

Pentantha johnstonii is a herbaceous perennial that usually grows to a height of about 30 to 60 centimeters. Its leaves are typically basal, meaning they grow from the base of the plant, and are often somewhat lobed. The plant produces solitary, daisy-like flower heads. These flower heads have white ray florets and yellow disc florets. The flowering season generally occurs during the spring and summer months.

The genus Pentantha was described by Edward Lee Greene in 1909. The species Pentantha johnstonii was named by Marcus Eugene Jones. While not widely cultivated, Pentantha johnstonii plays a role in its native ecosystem, providing habitat and food for local wildlife. Its conservation status is generally considered to be of least concern, though local populations can be affected by habitat disturbance. Further research into the ecological interactions and potential medicinal properties of Pentantha johnstonii may be of interest.