Also called “alfileria,” this species and its close relative, Texas
filaree (_Erodium texanum_) are both early blossoming annuals, often
widespread on plains and mesas, February to May. The flowers, although
abundant, are small and so hidden in low-growing foliage that they
rarely create a mass display. Texas filaree is native to North America,
but alfileria is thought to have come from Europe with the Spaniards,
and is now naturalized throughout the Southwest. Corkscrew-like
appendages of the fruits are tightly twisted when dry, but untwist when
moist, literally screwing the sharp-pointed fruits into the soil. Both
species are excellent spring forage for livestock.
_Erodium cicutarium_ Geranium Family
[Illustration: HERON-BILL]