| Sanicula arctopoides | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Sanicula |
| Species: | S. arctopoides |
| Binomial name | |
| Sanicula arctopoides | |
Sanicula arctopoides is a species ofsanicle known commonly asfootsteps of spring,bear's foot sanicle oryellow mats.
Sanicula arctopoides is perennial herb found on the west coast of the United States and Canada, from the southern end ofVancouver Island (and adjacent islands) inBritish Columbia, to thecentral coast of California. It grows in close proximity to the ocean throughout its range.
Taprooted perennial with short, thick branches which may be prostrate or slightly erect. The leaves are yellowish-green and carrot-like or maple-shaped, and the tiny yellow flowers are borne inumbels with prominentbracts. The plants grow in low matted patches along the ground, resembling "footsteps" of yellow against the ground.
Sanicula arctopoides is a protected species in some areas. In Canada, the species is known from only eight remaining locations on the south coast ofBritish Columbia where it is listed under theSpecies at Risk Act.[3][4] In Washington, the species is critically imperilled.[5]
