While walking across sagebrush country, marshmallow-sized white flowers caught my attention. They rise up about a foot off the ground and upon closer inspection are clearly members of the Sunflower Family (Asteraceae). A little research shows they are Douglas' Dustymaiden (Chaenactis douglasii), also called dusty maiden, pincushion flower, chaenactis, and hoary chaenactis.
There are several different varieties that vary with elevation, but the ones with sagebrush have full, beautiful flowers. The 1/2 inch wide flower heads have many tubular disk flowers and reproductive parts emerging from them, making the flower look somewhat like a pin cushion.For more information about Douglas' dustymaiden, click here.
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