Sinteringia

Sinteringia is a small genus of flowering plants in the mustard family, Brassicaceae. The genus is native to western North America and is typically represented by a single widely recognized species, Sinteringia douglasii, with occasional recognition of additional rare variants in some taxonomic treatments.

Description: Sinteringia douglasii is an annual or short‑lived herb that forms low patches on the soil surface. The plant bears small flowers arranged in loose inflorescences; the flowers have four petals in a cross shape, typical of Brassicaceae, and develop slender siliques as fruits. Leaves are usually modest in size, with basal leaves sometimes forming a rosette.

Distribution and habitat: The species occurs in parts of Canada and the United States’ Pacific Northwest, including British Columbia and northern California. It grows in open, well‑drained soils on habitats such as meadows, grasslands, and forest edges, often in areas with seasonal moisture.

Ecology and phenology: Flowering occurs in spring after seasonal rains, with pollination by small insects. Seed dispersal is primarily gravity-driven, with limited movement by animals. The life cycle is adapted to a brief growing season, completing development within one year in many locations.

Taxonomy and nomenclature: The genus name Sinteringia is recognized in botanical references for this group, with S. douglasii as the best‑attested species. The taxonomy of additional forms has varied among sources.

Conservation: Some populations are localized and may be subject to habitat disturbance or competition from invasive species. Overall data on the genus’s conservation status are limited.