Eucrypta is a small genus of flowering plants in the family Hydrophyllaceae (order Boraginales), containing just two species. Both are small, weedy annual herbs native to the southwestern United States, where they grow in disturbed and arid habitats. The plants have a notably sticky texture and emit an aromatic scent from their green foliage. Their leaves are strongly lobed and resemble fern fronds, though some individuals produce very few leaves and are mostly leafless stems bearing flowers and fruits.
The flowers are small and bell-shaped, ranging from white to pale pink or light purple. The genus name Eucrypta means “well-hidden,” a reference to the seeds enclosed within small green bristled fruits — a trait that also gives rise to the common name “hideseeds.” The two species are Eucrypta chrysanthemifolia (spotted hideseed or common eucrypta) and Eucrypta micrantha (dainty desert hideseed or small-flowered eucrypta).
Eucrypta species are notable as fire-followers: they are among the first plants to colonize an area after it has been cleared by fire, quickly establishing from long-dormant seeds in disturbed soils.
Etymology
The genus name Eucrypta derives from Greek roots meaning “well-hidden,” referring to the seeds concealed inside the small green bristled fruits. This trait is also the basis for the common name “hideseeds.”
Distribution
Both species in the genus are native to the southwestern United States. They grow in arid and disturbed habitats across this region and are adapted to fire-prone landscapes.
Ecology
Eucrypta species are classic fire-followers, typically among the first plants to emerge after an area has been burned or otherwise cleared. Their seeds can remain dormant in soil until disturbance — particularly fire — triggers germination. The foliage is sticky and aromatic, which may deter herbivores.
