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Goldeneggs facts for kids

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Goldeneggs
Camissonia ovata 2.jpg
Scientific classification
Genus:
Taraxia
Species:
ovata
Synonyms
  • Camissonia ovata (Nutt.) P.H.Raven
  • Oenothera ovata Nutt.
Suncup Primrose, camissonia ovata (27543590598)
Sun cup Primrose closeup

Taraxia ovata is a type of wildflower that grows naturally in California and Oregon. People often call it the goldeneggs or sun cup plant. It gets these names because of its bright yellow flowers.

What is the Sun Cup Plant Like?

This plant is a perennial, which means it lives for many years. It often grows in clay soil. The plant has a thick main root called a taproot, which helps it find water deep in the ground.

The leaves of the sun cup plant grow in a wide circle close to the ground. This circle is called a rosette. The leaves are long and can be shaped like feathers or ovals. Sometimes, their edges are a bit wavy.

The flowers grow on top of thin, straight stems. They are usually bright yellow. Sometimes, you might see white flowers, or yellow ones with white spots near the bottom of their four spoon-shaped petals. The parts of the flower that hold pollen, called stamens, are quite short compared to similar plants.

Where Does the Sun Cup Grow?

The sun cup plant is found in different parts of California and Oregon. In California, it grows in the North Coast Range. You can find it there at elevations up to about 1,600 feet (488 meters).

This includes areas like Sonoma County and Marin County. Its range extends south all the way to San Luis Obispo County.

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