lithosperma

Lithosperma is a genus of flowering plants in the borage family, Boraginaceae. The genus name comes from the Greek words lithos, meaning stone, and sperma, meaning seed, referring to the hard, stone-like nature of the seeds. Species within Lithosperma are typically herbaceous perennials or subshrubs found in a variety of habitats, often in dry, rocky areas.

The leaves of Lithosperma are usually simple and alternate, and they can be hairy or smooth depending on the species. The flowers are typically small and funnel-shaped, with five petals that are fused at the base. They are commonly white, blue, or purple and are borne in terminal or axillary clusters. The fruit is a nutlet, which is characteristic of the borage family.

Lithosperma species are found across the Northern Hemisphere, with a significant number of species native to North America and Asia. Their adaptations to dry environments include deep root systems and the ability to tolerate low nutrient soils. While not widely cultivated, some species may be of horticultural interest for their drought tolerance and delicate flowers. Historically, some plants in related genera have been used in traditional medicine, though specific medicinal uses for Lithosperma are less documented. The genus is closely related to the more well-known genus Lithospermum, and taxonomic classifications can sometimes vary.