balsamisia

Balsamisia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as balsamweed or balsamroot. These plants are native to North America, with a distribution that extends across much of the western United States and parts of Canada. Balsamisia species are typically perennial herbs, characterized by their basal rosettes of leaves and erect flowering stalks. The leaves are often aromatic, possessing a resinous or balsam-like scent, which gives the genus its name.

The flowers of Balsamisia are usually yellow and daisy-like, forming composite flower heads. These heads typically appear in late spring or early summer. The plants thrive in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. They are adapted to drier conditions and can be found in areas with well-drained soil.

Several species are recognized within the genus Balsamisia, with variations in leaf shape, size, and flower head characteristics. For instance, Balsamisia resinosa is a well-known species. Historically, some indigenous peoples utilized parts of Balsamisia plants for medicinal purposes, though scientific validation of these uses is limited. The genus is of ecological interest for its role in supporting local fauna and its contribution to native plant communities. Conservation status varies among species, with some being more widespread than others.