Semi-desert.  Rimrock, openings.  Spring.
Above: Carpenter Natural Area, August 15, 2017.
Left: Hawkins Preserve, Cortez, Colorado, May 23, 2006.

Hedeoma drummondii is found in few locations on the West Slope in Colorado, but it is much more common in the other Four Corners states (and in most Rocky Mountain states).  It grows from about 4-15 inches tall and at first it may not appear to have flowers, because they are quite tiny and are actually surpassed in size by their calyx.  Crushed leaves give off a very strong and pleasant mint aroma and are the source of the genus name: Greek gives us both "hedy" for "sweet" and "osm" for "scent". 

The genus was named by Christiaan Persoon (1761-1836).  George Bentham named this species in 1834 from a specimen collected by Berlandier near Monterey, Mexico.  Thomas Drummond was a highly respected naturalist and explorer.  (More biographical information about Drummond.)  

Semi-desert.  Rimrock, openings.  Spring.
Carpenter Natural Area, August 15, 2017 and Hawkins Preserve, Cortez, Colorado, May 23, 2006.

Semi-desert.  Rimrock, openings.  Spring.
Carpenter Natural Area, August 15, 2017; Hawkins Preserve, May 23, 2006; and Carpenter Natural Area, June 18, 2013.

Leaf edges are often rolled inward.

A close look at the leaves, stems, and calyx show them to be covered with short, fine hairs that have their tips bent over. Also notice that the back of the leaf is pitted (foveate).

Range map © John Kartesz,
Floristic Synthesis of North America

State Color Key

Species present in state and native
Species present in state and exotic
Species not present in state

County Color Key

Species present and not rare
Species present and rare
Species extirpated (historic)
Species extinct
Species noxious
Species exotic and present
Native species, but adventive in state
Eradicated
Questionable presence

Range map for Hedeoma drummondii