[wikipedia] Rarity, Range, Habitat: Sidalcea covillei is an uncommon species of flowering plant in the mallow family known by the common names Owens Valley sidalcea,[2] and Owens Valley checkerbloom. It is endemic to the Owens Valley of Inyo County, California,[1][3] where it grows on alkali flats and in alkaline meadows and springs. While it is limited to this single valley, it is known from 42 sites there, and several populations are relatively large, but are greatly diminished by historical standards.[1] (contributed by Mary Ann Machi)