Witch'S-Teeth

hosackia gracilis

Witch's-Teeth (Hosackia gracilis), also known as the harlequin lotus, is a charming perennial herb native to the damp coastal meadows and wetlands of western North America. Belonging to the pea family (Fabaceae), this low-growing wildflower is celebrated for its striking, multi-colored blossoms that paint seasonal wetlands in hues of yellow and pink. It plays an important role in its local ecosystems, stabilizing wet soils and providing crucial nectar for native bumblebees. Historically found along the Pacific coastline from California up to British Columbia, this resilient plant thrives in moist, nutrient-poor soils where other plants struggle. Its presence is often an indicator of high-quality wetland habitats, and it serves as a critical host plant for several rare and localized insect species.

Habitat: Found in wet meadows, coastal prairies, seeps, and margins of vernal pools at low elevations along the Pacific coast.

Appearance

This low-growing perennial features sprawling or decumbent stems that reach between 10 to 40 centimeters in length. Its leaves are pinnately compound, typically consisting of 5 to 9 smooth, oval-shaped green leaflets. The defining feature is its beautiful umbel-like cluster of 3 to 9 pea-like flowers. Each flower showcases a vivid contrast: the upper banner petal is bright yellow, while the lateral wing and lower keel petals are a striking rose-purple to pale pinkish-white, creating a colorful, bi-toned appearance.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderFabalesFamilyFabaceaeGenusHosackia

Witch'S-Teeth

Interesting facts

Because it fixes nitrogen, it acts as a natural fertilizer, helping pioneer plant communities re-establish in disturbed or nutrient-poor wetland soils.

It is a key indicator species for the health of coastal prairie ecosystems, which are among the most endangered habitats in North America.

The common name 'Witch's-Teeth' arises from the pointed, claw-like shape and sharp coloration of the flower buds before they fully open.

Special abilities

Forms a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria in its roots to convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable nutrients, enriching poor soils.

Features specialized root adaptations that allow it to survive in saturated, oxygen-depleted soils during spring floods.

Employs a specialized keel petal mechanism that remains closed until a sufficiently heavy native bee lands on it, ensuring targeted pollen transfer.

Measurements & details

Length: 10-40 cm
Lifespan: 2-5 years

Diet & Feeding

As a photosynthetic plant, it utilizes chlorophyll to convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into sugars, supplemented by nitrogen fixed from root nodules.

Primary Foods

Sunlight
Carbon dioxide
Water
Soil minerals

Ecological connections

host plant

Lotis Blue Butterfly

Plebejus anna lotis

Serves as a crucial larval food source for this highly endangered butterfly species.

mutualism

Yellow-faced Bumble Bee

Bombus vosnesenskii

Provides high-quality nectar and pollen, while the bee triggers the plant's unique pollination mechanism.

Traits

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Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

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Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Witch'S-Teeth?

The easiest way to identify Witch'S-Teeth is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Witch'S-Teeth?

10-40 cm

How long does Witch'S-Teeth live?

2-5 years

What does Witch'S-Teeth eat?

As a photosynthetic plant, it utilizes chlorophyll to convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into sugars, supplemented by nitrogen fixed from root nodules.

Where is Witch'S-Teeth usually found?

Found in wet meadows, coastal prairies, seeps, and margins of vernal pools at low elevations along the Pacific coast.