Anemopsis californica

Anemopsis californica is from the Saururaceae family of plants. It is also known as Apache beads, Yerba Mansa or Lizard Tail. Anemopsis californica is a perennial. It prefers moisture, boggy soil, or shallow water. It is hardy. It is a marginal aquatic plant. It spreads through runners.

Anemopsis californica is native to North America. It forms a clump of leaves from which it produces a large white flower. The flowers have spots or shades of pink. It flowers from July to September.

Anemopsis californica leaves are grey-green. They are about 8in or 20cm. The flowers are tiny and fragrant. They are surrounded by large white bracts. So what looks like a flower is a cluster of small individual flowers on a conical inflorescence. This cone turns into a tough fruit after the flower is done. The plant develops red stains as it matures. In colder weather, it also turns red. The seeds are pepper-shaped.

Anemopsis californica or Yerba mansa has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties and is used for medicinal purposes. It is used as a tea or powdered into capsules. The dried flowers are also aromatic.