​Cowboy’s Delight, Scarlet Globemallow, Copper Mallow,Sphaeralcea coccinea,Mallow Family (Malvaceae)

Found in dry slopes, disturbed soil
Seen blooming in May by CR 142
This is one of six species of Globemallow that grow in our area and is the earliest bloomer. Also coming into bloom now is the Small-leaf Globemallow which is taller and has triangular leaves. Scarlet Globemallow grows from 4" to 16" in large patches, usually about 8" high. Leaves are deeply divided into three or five then divided again and can appear grayish-green from the fine silvery hairs that cover them. Sometimes the edges fold in making them appear even narrower.  Flowers grow in a dense cluster at the end of the branches and have five orange petals forming a cup or saucer shape. The fruit produced is shaped like a cheese-wheel and splits apart into segments like an orange. Its common name of Cowboy’s Delight is said to come from the delight its bright colors gave to a cowboy in a dull, arid landscape. The Teton Sioux used it ceremonially. A paste was used as a cooling agent for burns, scalds, and sores.  A tea was used as a lotion for skin diseases, and a tonic to improve appetite. The Navajo used a tea for improving the taste of bitter medicinal herbs. Crushed leaves were used as a poultice for skin irritations and as a shoe liner for blistered feet. Source.
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