Distinguished from other Pectocarya by its 4 nutlets arranged in a flattened cross-shape, lined by sharp, transparent teeth, mostly around the apex; 2 nutlets have a prominent, lighter-colored margin.
Stems trail or are somewhat erect, hairy; leaves narrow to lance-like with narrow end towards the stem; flowers very small, white; fruit are narrow nutlets of 2 forms, 2 point upward, conspicuously winged; 2 bent backward, narrowly winged or wingless.
Habitat
Found on arid, gravelly, sandy slopes, in valleys and washes and in disturbed areas.
Flower Characteristics
Series of flowers, each on a curved stalk; lance-like, 1/16 inch green sepals and white petals.
Leaf and Stem Characteristics
Stems and leaves tend to curve upwards; leaves clustered, at base and along stems; linear to lance-like; 1/16 inch wide, 1/4 to 1 inch long; stiff hairs; recessed mid-vein.
Fruit and Seed Characteristics
2 nutlets have broad deep cut margins; triangular teeth; hooked hairs at tips; other 2 nutlets smooth; tuft of bent hairs at opposite end of attachment.