Enceliopsis is a noun referring to a genus of flowering plants within the family Asteraceae. It consists of perennial herbs that are native to western North America, particularly the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The plants in this genus are known for their distinctive growth habit, characterized by a basal rosette of leaves and tall, leafless flower stalks.
Enceliopsis plants typically have leaves that are simple, alternate, and often lobed or toothed. The flowers are large, solitary, and daisy-like, with yellow or orange ray florets surrounding a central disk of tiny, tubular disc florets. The genus was named after the Greek words "enkelis," meaning "curled," and "opsis," meaning "appearance" or "aspect," in reference to the curled shape of the ray florets.
These plants are well-adapted to dry, arid environments and are often found in desert landscapes or rocky slopes. They play a vital ecological role as nectar sources for various pollinators, attracting insects and birds. Some species within the Enceliopsis genus are also used in traditional medicine or as ornamental plants in gardens.
Overall, enceliopsis refers to a genus of flowering plants that possess a unique growth habit and are predominantly found in dry regions of western North America. They are known for their attractive daisy-like flowers and their ecological importance as nectar sources.
