The Black Range

Bow-Nut Cryptantha - Cryptantha cinerea
East of Hillsboro
New Mexico, USA

Bow-nut Cryptantha, Cryptantha cinerea, is in the Forget-Me-Not-Family, which is characterized by very hairy foliage.  The CRC World Dictionary of Medicinal and Poisonous Plants indicates that this species is used for “snakebites, roots used in sores, skin diseases. Veterinary medicine, for snakebite.”

There are at least four varieties of this species found in New Mexico.  Some of the varieties have been considered full species in the past and there are, as a result, several scientific synonyms.

This species is also known by the English common name of James’ Cryptantha.  

BONAP does not list this species, it may be C. mexicana which is listed at that site.