文章
Miss Chen
2018年06月12日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is ¾–2¼' tall and unbranched. The central stem is green, glabrous, and terete. A single well-developed leaf occurs near the base of the central stem. This leaf is 4-12" long, ¼–1½" across, and ascending; it is linear-elliptic to elliptic in shape and entire (toothless) along its margins. The leaf tapers gradually into a narrow base that is enclosed by a sheath, while its tip is narrowly acute and hull-shaped. The upper surface of the entire leaf is often slightly concave (curved inward from the margins) along its length. Both the upper and lower leaf surfaces are yellowish green to medium green and glabrous. Leaf venation is parallel. Below the well-developed leaf, there are 1-2 rudimentary leaves that are sheath-like and inconspicuous.
The central stem terminates in a spike of 2-15 flowers (rarely up to 20). The rachis of this floral spike is green to reddish purple, terete, and glabrous; it has a tendency to zig-zag between the flowers. Each flower is 1-2" across, consisting of 3 petaloid sepals, 3 petals, an exposed reproductive column, and an inferior ovary. Both the sepals and petals (excluding the petal that has been modified into a lip) are pink to deep rosy pink (rarely white); the sepals and petals may also have faint veins of dark rosy pink. The sepals are ovate or broadly oblong-ovate in shape, while the petals are broadly elliptic or elliptic-ovate in shape. Depending on the stage of development, both petals and sepals are spreading and more or less incurved from their tips; their upper surfaces are flat to somewhat concave. Both sepals and petals are nearly the same length (about ¾" long), although the sepals are a little wider. The third petal has been modified into an upper lip about ¾" long. This upper lip is linear in shape (grooved above and convex below), except toward its tip, where it has been widened by 2 lateral lobes; these lobes are half-orbicular to bluntly triangular in shape. At the center of this lobed tip, is a patch of white and a cluster of clubbed pseudo-stamens; these pseudo-stamens are hair-like in appearance and yellow to orange. Elsewhere, the lip is pink to rosy pink (rarely white) like the sepals and remaining petals. The lip is also hinged at its base.
The exposed reproductive column is mostly linear-flattened in shape, straight, and pink to rosy pink (rarely white). However, toward its tip, the reproductive column is upturned, terete along its center, and laterally lobed. The reproductive organs are located at the tip of the column, which is dark rosy pink. The reproductive column lies opposite from the upper lip of the flower; it is about ¾" long. The ascending inferior ovary, at the time of bloom, is light green to pale greenish pink, cylindrical-ribbed in shape, and glabrous. The blooming period usually occurs from early to late summer, lasting about 3-4 weeks. The flowers bloom sequentially from the bottom to the top of the floral spike. There can be either a mild floral fragrance or none. Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by seed capsules that are about ¾" long and ellipsoid-ovoid in shape; they eventually break open to release numerous tiny seeds, which are distributed by the wind. The root system consists of a globoid to ovoid corm with fibrous roots below.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, wet to moist conditions, and soil containing some sand and/or peat. Sometimes, this orchid is available from specialist orchid nurseries and it can be cultivated in gardens if its requirements are met. Wild plants, however, should never be collected.
Range & Habitat: The native Grass Pink Orchid has been found primarily in the northern half of Illinois and a few scattered counties elsewhere (see Distribution Map). This orchid is now rare and it is state-listed as 'endangered.' At one time, the Grass Pink Orchid was more abundant in Illinois, but its populations have declined because of habitat destruction and unscrupulous collecting. Habitats where this orchid can be found include wet to moist sand prairies, wet to moist sandy meadows, shallow sandy swales, openings in sandy swamps, fens, and bogs. This orchid is found in high quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: Bumblebees and other large long-tongued bees are the primary pollinators of the flowers. Halictid bees, flies, butterflies, skippers, and beetles also visit the flowers occasionally, but they are unlikely to be effective at cross-pollination. See Cole (1988), Luer (1975), Small (1976), and Thien & Marcks (1972) for more information. Neither nectar nor accessible pollen are available to such flower-visiting insects. Instead, they are lured by deception to land on the showy flowers. In particular, they are often attracted to the colorful pseudo-stamens on the lip of the flower. If the visiting insect has sufficient weight, the hinged lip of the flower collapses onto its exposed reproductive column, attaching pollinia to the back of the insect. When the same insect visits the next flower, the same process can deposit the pollinia onto the exposed stigma of the reproductive column, enabling cross-pollination to occur. Like other orchids, the foliage and flowers of the Grass Pink Orchid are probably vulnerable to browsing by White-tailed Deer and other mammalian herbivores. When such animals are too abundant, it may be necessary to protect colonies and solitary plants of this orchid with wire cages or fencing.
Photographic Location: A shallow sandy swale at a nature preserve in Lake County, Illinois.
Comments: The structure of the flower for this orchid is highly unusual because its lip is located at the top rather than the bottom, causing the flower to appear upside-down (even though it is actually rightside-up). The Grass Pink Orchid is the most common species of its genus within the state and it is widely distributed within the eastern United States and SE Canada. The only other species of this genus within the state, the Oklahoma Grass Pink Orchid (Calopogon oklahomensis), is even more rare and it is also state-listed as 'endangered.' This latter orchid can be distinguished from the former as follows: 1) the petals and sepals of its flower are usually a lighter shade of pink, and 2) the lip of its flower has a patch of short pink pseudo-stamens above its showier yellow pseudo-stamens. The more common Grass Pink orchid lacks short pink pseudo-stamens on the lip of its flower. The Oklahoma Grass Pink Orchid is also found in drier habitats, like mesic prairies. Other common names of Calopogon tuberosus are Tuberous Grass Pink and Grass Pink, even though it is neither a grass nor a member of the Pink family (Caryophyllaceae).
The central stem terminates in a spike of 2-15 flowers (rarely up to 20). The rachis of this floral spike is green to reddish purple, terete, and glabrous; it has a tendency to zig-zag between the flowers. Each flower is 1-2" across, consisting of 3 petaloid sepals, 3 petals, an exposed reproductive column, and an inferior ovary. Both the sepals and petals (excluding the petal that has been modified into a lip) are pink to deep rosy pink (rarely white); the sepals and petals may also have faint veins of dark rosy pink. The sepals are ovate or broadly oblong-ovate in shape, while the petals are broadly elliptic or elliptic-ovate in shape. Depending on the stage of development, both petals and sepals are spreading and more or less incurved from their tips; their upper surfaces are flat to somewhat concave. Both sepals and petals are nearly the same length (about ¾" long), although the sepals are a little wider. The third petal has been modified into an upper lip about ¾" long. This upper lip is linear in shape (grooved above and convex below), except toward its tip, where it has been widened by 2 lateral lobes; these lobes are half-orbicular to bluntly triangular in shape. At the center of this lobed tip, is a patch of white and a cluster of clubbed pseudo-stamens; these pseudo-stamens are hair-like in appearance and yellow to orange. Elsewhere, the lip is pink to rosy pink (rarely white) like the sepals and remaining petals. The lip is also hinged at its base.
The exposed reproductive column is mostly linear-flattened in shape, straight, and pink to rosy pink (rarely white). However, toward its tip, the reproductive column is upturned, terete along its center, and laterally lobed. The reproductive organs are located at the tip of the column, which is dark rosy pink. The reproductive column lies opposite from the upper lip of the flower; it is about ¾" long. The ascending inferior ovary, at the time of bloom, is light green to pale greenish pink, cylindrical-ribbed in shape, and glabrous. The blooming period usually occurs from early to late summer, lasting about 3-4 weeks. The flowers bloom sequentially from the bottom to the top of the floral spike. There can be either a mild floral fragrance or none. Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by seed capsules that are about ¾" long and ellipsoid-ovoid in shape; they eventually break open to release numerous tiny seeds, which are distributed by the wind. The root system consists of a globoid to ovoid corm with fibrous roots below.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, wet to moist conditions, and soil containing some sand and/or peat. Sometimes, this orchid is available from specialist orchid nurseries and it can be cultivated in gardens if its requirements are met. Wild plants, however, should never be collected.
Range & Habitat: The native Grass Pink Orchid has been found primarily in the northern half of Illinois and a few scattered counties elsewhere (see Distribution Map). This orchid is now rare and it is state-listed as 'endangered.' At one time, the Grass Pink Orchid was more abundant in Illinois, but its populations have declined because of habitat destruction and unscrupulous collecting. Habitats where this orchid can be found include wet to moist sand prairies, wet to moist sandy meadows, shallow sandy swales, openings in sandy swamps, fens, and bogs. This orchid is found in high quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: Bumblebees and other large long-tongued bees are the primary pollinators of the flowers. Halictid bees, flies, butterflies, skippers, and beetles also visit the flowers occasionally, but they are unlikely to be effective at cross-pollination. See Cole (1988), Luer (1975), Small (1976), and Thien & Marcks (1972) for more information. Neither nectar nor accessible pollen are available to such flower-visiting insects. Instead, they are lured by deception to land on the showy flowers. In particular, they are often attracted to the colorful pseudo-stamens on the lip of the flower. If the visiting insect has sufficient weight, the hinged lip of the flower collapses onto its exposed reproductive column, attaching pollinia to the back of the insect. When the same insect visits the next flower, the same process can deposit the pollinia onto the exposed stigma of the reproductive column, enabling cross-pollination to occur. Like other orchids, the foliage and flowers of the Grass Pink Orchid are probably vulnerable to browsing by White-tailed Deer and other mammalian herbivores. When such animals are too abundant, it may be necessary to protect colonies and solitary plants of this orchid with wire cages or fencing.
Photographic Location: A shallow sandy swale at a nature preserve in Lake County, Illinois.
Comments: The structure of the flower for this orchid is highly unusual because its lip is located at the top rather than the bottom, causing the flower to appear upside-down (even though it is actually rightside-up). The Grass Pink Orchid is the most common species of its genus within the state and it is widely distributed within the eastern United States and SE Canada. The only other species of this genus within the state, the Oklahoma Grass Pink Orchid (Calopogon oklahomensis), is even more rare and it is also state-listed as 'endangered.' This latter orchid can be distinguished from the former as follows: 1) the petals and sepals of its flower are usually a lighter shade of pink, and 2) the lip of its flower has a patch of short pink pseudo-stamens above its showier yellow pseudo-stamens. The more common Grass Pink orchid lacks short pink pseudo-stamens on the lip of its flower. The Oklahoma Grass Pink Orchid is also found in drier habitats, like mesic prairies. Other common names of Calopogon tuberosus are Tuberous Grass Pink and Grass Pink, even though it is neither a grass nor a member of the Pink family (Caryophyllaceae).
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年06月11日
Description: This annual or biennial plant is 1-4' tall, branching occasionally. The green or reddish stems are glabrous to slightly hairy. The opposite compound leaves are odd-pinnate, dividing into 3-7 slender segments. Compound leaves are up to 8" long and 4" across; they are much wider at their bases than toward their tips. The leaflets are slightly ciliate and coarsely dentate; sometimes they are divided into narrow pointed lobes. From terminal stems, or from the axils of upper leaves, there develops from 1 to 3 flowerheads on slender and slightly hairy stalks. An individual plant may have several flowerheads in bloom at the same time. Each daisy-like flowerhead is about 2" across, consisting of 8-10 ray florets that surround numerous disk florets. The tiny corollas of the disk florets are tubular in shape and golden yellow, while the petaloid rays are bright yellow and oblong-elliptic in shape. Each flowerhead is subtended by 12-18 green outer bracts (phyllaries) that are each about ¾" long, linear in shape, coarsely ciliate, and rather contorted. Less visible, there are also several inner bracts that are pale yellow and lanceolate in shape. The blooming period occurs from late summer to early fall, lasting about 1-2 months. The flowers are slightly fragrant, which becomes quite noticeable in a large colony of plants. The dark brown achenes are rather flat and rough-textured with central longitudinal ridges; they are about 1½–2 times as long as they are wide. These achenes lack significant awns at their apices. The root system consists of a shallow branching taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and wet to moist conditions. The soil should be rich in organic material. This plant is easy to grow, but tends to be aggressive at a disturbed site that is sunny and moist. It can form large colonies by reseeding itself. This species of Bidens appears to have some tolerance of hot dry weather.
Range & Habitat: Long-Bracted Tickseed Sunflower is occasional in the southern half of Illinois and NE Illinois, but it is rare or absent in the remaining northern counties (see Distribution Map). This plant is native. Habitats include moist prairies, prairie swales, low areas along ponds and streams, gravelly seeps, ditches along railroads and roadsides, muddy fields, and miscellaneous waste areas. It usually occurs in or around poorly drained areas that are prone to standing water, or near sources of more or less permanent water. Disturbed areas are favored because of reduced competition from deep-rooted perennial plants.
Faunal Associations: The flowerheads are popular with many kinds of insects, including long-tongued bees, short-tongued bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, skippers, and beetles. Typical bee visitors include bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp., Coelioxys spp.), long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), green metallic bees, plasterer bees (Colletes spp.), and Andrenid bees (Calliopsis spp., Heterosarus spp.). The caterpillars of the butterfly Nathalis iole (Dainty Sulfur) are known to favor the foliage of Bidens spp. as a food source. The caterpillars of several moths feed on the foliage, flowerheads, or the pith of stems, including Epiblema otiosana (Bidens Borer Moth), Condica mobilis (Mobile Groundling), Condica confederata (The Confederate), Cirrhophanus triangulifer (Goldenrod Stowaway), and Palthis asopialis (Faint-Spotted Palthis). Other insect feeders include leaf beetles (Calligrapha spp.), larvae of the fruit fly Icterica seriata, and several aphid species.
The seeds are eaten by small rodents and various birds, including the Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite, Swamp Sparrow, and Purple Finch. The foliage is eaten occasionally by the Cottontail Rabbit. Even though their awns are tiny or absent, the achenes of Bidens polylepis can cling to the the fur of animals or clothing of humans; this is largely because of their rough edges. Small rodents can carry the achenes to their dens for some distance from the mother plants.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a prairie swale in Meadowbrook Park, Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is one of the more pretty and drought-tolerant Bidens spp. that occasionally strays from wetlands to moist prairies. Long-Bracted Tickseed Sunflower can be distinguished from other Bidens spp. by its attractive flowers and slender pinnate foliage. It has a very similar appearance to Bidens aristosa (Tickseed Sunflower). However, the flowerheads of this latter species are individually subtended by 8-10 outer bracts (phyllaries); these bracts are shorter, less hairy, and less contorted than those of Bidens polylepis. The achenes of Bidens aristosa usually have pairs of conspicuous awns at their apices, otherwise they are very similar in appearance to those of Bidens polylepis. However, a rare variety of the Tickseed Sunflower, Bidens aristosa mutica, also has achenes that lack significant awns. Because of its distinct outer bracts and awnless achenes, Long-Bracted Tickseed Sunflower is usually classified as a distinct species (Mohlenbrock, 2002). Scientific synonyms of this species are Bidens aristosa retrorsa and Bidens involucrata.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and wet to moist conditions. The soil should be rich in organic material. This plant is easy to grow, but tends to be aggressive at a disturbed site that is sunny and moist. It can form large colonies by reseeding itself. This species of Bidens appears to have some tolerance of hot dry weather.
Range & Habitat: Long-Bracted Tickseed Sunflower is occasional in the southern half of Illinois and NE Illinois, but it is rare or absent in the remaining northern counties (see Distribution Map). This plant is native. Habitats include moist prairies, prairie swales, low areas along ponds and streams, gravelly seeps, ditches along railroads and roadsides, muddy fields, and miscellaneous waste areas. It usually occurs in or around poorly drained areas that are prone to standing water, or near sources of more or less permanent water. Disturbed areas are favored because of reduced competition from deep-rooted perennial plants.
Faunal Associations: The flowerheads are popular with many kinds of insects, including long-tongued bees, short-tongued bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, skippers, and beetles. Typical bee visitors include bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp., Coelioxys spp.), long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), green metallic bees, plasterer bees (Colletes spp.), and Andrenid bees (Calliopsis spp., Heterosarus spp.). The caterpillars of the butterfly Nathalis iole (Dainty Sulfur) are known to favor the foliage of Bidens spp. as a food source. The caterpillars of several moths feed on the foliage, flowerheads, or the pith of stems, including Epiblema otiosana (Bidens Borer Moth), Condica mobilis (Mobile Groundling), Condica confederata (The Confederate), Cirrhophanus triangulifer (Goldenrod Stowaway), and Palthis asopialis (Faint-Spotted Palthis). Other insect feeders include leaf beetles (Calligrapha spp.), larvae of the fruit fly Icterica seriata, and several aphid species.
The seeds are eaten by small rodents and various birds, including the Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite, Swamp Sparrow, and Purple Finch. The foliage is eaten occasionally by the Cottontail Rabbit. Even though their awns are tiny or absent, the achenes of Bidens polylepis can cling to the the fur of animals or clothing of humans; this is largely because of their rough edges. Small rodents can carry the achenes to their dens for some distance from the mother plants.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a prairie swale in Meadowbrook Park, Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is one of the more pretty and drought-tolerant Bidens spp. that occasionally strays from wetlands to moist prairies. Long-Bracted Tickseed Sunflower can be distinguished from other Bidens spp. by its attractive flowers and slender pinnate foliage. It has a very similar appearance to Bidens aristosa (Tickseed Sunflower). However, the flowerheads of this latter species are individually subtended by 8-10 outer bracts (phyllaries); these bracts are shorter, less hairy, and less contorted than those of Bidens polylepis. The achenes of Bidens aristosa usually have pairs of conspicuous awns at their apices, otherwise they are very similar in appearance to those of Bidens polylepis. However, a rare variety of the Tickseed Sunflower, Bidens aristosa mutica, also has achenes that lack significant awns. Because of its distinct outer bracts and awnless achenes, Long-Bracted Tickseed Sunflower is usually classified as a distinct species (Mohlenbrock, 2002). Scientific synonyms of this species are Bidens aristosa retrorsa and Bidens involucrata.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年06月11日
Description: This annual plant is 1-3' tall, branching occasionally in the upper half. The stems are glabrous or they have a few scattered white hairs; they are often purple in bright sunlight, otherwise light green or reddish green. The compound leaves are usually odd-pinnate, consisting of 3 or 5 leaflets. Often, there are simple leaves near the flowerheads. These leaves occur oppositely along the stems, although some of the upper leaves may be alternate. The compound leaves have long petioles. The leaflets are up to 3" long and 1" across. They are lanceolate, coarsely serrated, and usually hairless, although their lower surface may be slightly pubescent. The tips of the leaflets are rather long and pointed. Some of the upper stems terminate in individual flowerheads about ¾–1" across on long stalks; some stalks may have 1-2 additional flowerheads that are smaller in size. The flowerheads consist of numerous disk florets that have golden yellow corollas; petaloid rays are absent. The flowerhead bases are surrounded by 6-10 leaf-like outer bracts (phyllaries); they are usually 8 in number. These narrow bracts are green and slightly ciliate. The blooming period occurs from late summer to early fall, lasting about 1-2 months. There is no noticeable floral scent. The dark achenes are flattened, each one terminating in a pair of long and slender awns. These awns have tiny barbs that point downward. Because of their light weight, the achenes can be blown about by wind. The root system consists of a shallow taproot that branches frequently. During the autumn, the leaves often turn purple.
Cultivation: The preference is partial to full sun and moist conditions; light shade is also tolerated. The soil should be reasonably fertile, with sufficient organic material to retain moisture. Occasional flooding and poor drainage is tolerated, if not preferred. This plant is easy to grow, often becoming a weedy pest. Sometimes it is found in more mesic situations, but individual plants will be smaller in size and less robust.
Range & Habitat: The native Common Beggar-Ticks occurs in most counties of Illinois, and it is quite common; official records probably underestimate its distribution in some areas (see Distribution Map). Habitats include moist areas of black soil prairies, moist meadows near woodlands or rivers, openings in floodplain woodlands and young flatwoods, thickets, marshes, swamps, seeps, borders of ponds or lakes, poorly drained areas along railroads and roadsides, both cultivated and abandoned fields, banks of drainage canals, and miscellaneous waste areas. This plant likes disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attract fewer insects than Bidens spp. with showier flowers. Occasionally, they are visited by bumblebees, Halictid bees, wasps, bee flies, Tachinid flies, small butterflies, and other insects. The caterpillars of several species of moths feed on the foliage, pith of the stems, or flowerheads, including Epiblema otiosana (Bidens Borer Moth), Platysenta mobilis (Mobile Groundling), Condica confederata (The Confederate), Cirrophanus triangulifer (Goldenrod Stowaway), and Palthis asopialis (Faint-Spotted Palthis). Other insects that feed on this plant include the leaf beetles Calligrapha bidenticola and Calligrapha californica, larvae of the leaf-miner flies Chromatomyia syngensiae and Phytobia allecta, and several aphid species. The seeds are eaten by small rodents and various birds, including the Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite, Swamp Sparrow, and Purple Finch. The Cottontail Rabbit occasionally eats the foliage. The awns of the seeds readily cling to the fur of animals and clothing of humans, thereby spreading this plant far and wide.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken near a drainage ditch at Judge Webber Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is one of the more common Bidens spp. The species in this genus can be divided into two groups: those with showy flowers and those with non-showy flowers. Common Beggar-Ticks is a member of the latter group. The non-showy Bidens spp. in Illinois can be distinguished from each other by considering two characteristics: 1) whether most of the leaves are simple or pinnately compound, and 2) the number of outer bracts surrounding the flowerheads. Common Beggar-Ticks has pinnately compound leaves and about 8 outer bracts surrounding its flowerheads. It is quite similar in appearance to Bidens vulgata (Tall Beggar-Ticks), except that this latter plant has about 13 outer bracts surrounding its flowerheads.
Cultivation: The preference is partial to full sun and moist conditions; light shade is also tolerated. The soil should be reasonably fertile, with sufficient organic material to retain moisture. Occasional flooding and poor drainage is tolerated, if not preferred. This plant is easy to grow, often becoming a weedy pest. Sometimes it is found in more mesic situations, but individual plants will be smaller in size and less robust.
Range & Habitat: The native Common Beggar-Ticks occurs in most counties of Illinois, and it is quite common; official records probably underestimate its distribution in some areas (see Distribution Map). Habitats include moist areas of black soil prairies, moist meadows near woodlands or rivers, openings in floodplain woodlands and young flatwoods, thickets, marshes, swamps, seeps, borders of ponds or lakes, poorly drained areas along railroads and roadsides, both cultivated and abandoned fields, banks of drainage canals, and miscellaneous waste areas. This plant likes disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attract fewer insects than Bidens spp. with showier flowers. Occasionally, they are visited by bumblebees, Halictid bees, wasps, bee flies, Tachinid flies, small butterflies, and other insects. The caterpillars of several species of moths feed on the foliage, pith of the stems, or flowerheads, including Epiblema otiosana (Bidens Borer Moth), Platysenta mobilis (Mobile Groundling), Condica confederata (The Confederate), Cirrophanus triangulifer (Goldenrod Stowaway), and Palthis asopialis (Faint-Spotted Palthis). Other insects that feed on this plant include the leaf beetles Calligrapha bidenticola and Calligrapha californica, larvae of the leaf-miner flies Chromatomyia syngensiae and Phytobia allecta, and several aphid species. The seeds are eaten by small rodents and various birds, including the Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite, Swamp Sparrow, and Purple Finch. The Cottontail Rabbit occasionally eats the foliage. The awns of the seeds readily cling to the fur of animals and clothing of humans, thereby spreading this plant far and wide.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken near a drainage ditch at Judge Webber Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is one of the more common Bidens spp. The species in this genus can be divided into two groups: those with showy flowers and those with non-showy flowers. Common Beggar-Ticks is a member of the latter group. The non-showy Bidens spp. in Illinois can be distinguished from each other by considering two characteristics: 1) whether most of the leaves are simple or pinnately compound, and 2) the number of outer bracts surrounding the flowerheads. Common Beggar-Ticks has pinnately compound leaves and about 8 outer bracts surrounding its flowerheads. It is quite similar in appearance to Bidens vulgata (Tall Beggar-Ticks), except that this latter plant has about 13 outer bracts surrounding its flowerheads.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月11日
Description: This herbaceous plant is a summer annual about 1-2½' tall that branches occasionally to frequently. The terete to slightly angular stems are light green, purplish green, or purple, and they are glabrous. Pairs of opposite trifoliate leaves occur along these stems, although some of the uppermost leaves are usually simple and alternate. The trifoliate leaves are up to 4" long and 3" across in outline, while their petioles are up to 1½" long. The petioles are light green to purplish green and mostly glabrous, except for some sparse pubescence along the narrow grooves of their upper sides. The terminal leaflets are about 1½-2" long and ½-¾" across; they are narrowly lanceolate to lanceolate in shape and coarsely dentate along their margins. The petiolules (basal stalklets) of terminal leaflets are about ¾" long and slender. The lateral leaflets are about 1-1½" long and ½-¾" across; they are lanceolate in shape and coarsely dentate along their margins. The petiolules of lateral leaflets are very short (up to 3 mm. long). The upper surfaces of leaflets are medium green and glabrous, while their lower surfaces are pale green and glabrous (or nearly so). During autumn, the leaflets often turn purple in response to cold weather.
Upper stems terminate in either individual or small clusters of 2-3 flowerheads. The peduncles of these flowerheads are relatively short (up to 12 mm. or ½" long). Each flowerhead is about 3-6 mm. across (excluding the outer bracts), consisting of 10-20 disk florets and no ray florets. The corollas of disk florets are yellow, short-tubular in shape, and 5-lobed; they are about 3 mm. long. Originating from the base of each flowerhead, there are 2-5 leafy outer bracts. The outer bracts are medium green, narrowly oblanceolate or elliptic in shape, and glabrous (or nearly so); they are up to 1½" (4 cm.) long and 8 mm. across (usually about one-half the maximum size, but highly variable). Around the base of each flowerhead, there are several inner bracts. These inner bracts are 4-6 mm. long, light green or yellowish green, oblong-ovate in shape, and appressed together in a slightly overlapping single series. The blooming occurs from late summer into the fall, lasting about 1½-2 months. In the absence of cross-pollination, the disk florets are self-fertile. Afterwards, the disk florets are replaced by achenes with pairs of awns. The achenes (excluding their awns) are about 4 mm. long, 1-1.5 mm. across, and flattened-oblanceoloid in shape; they are truncate at their apices, while their outer sides have faint midribs. The barbed awns of these achenes (2 awns per achene) are about 1 mm. in length. Mature achenes are greenish brown to dark brown.
The root system is shallow and fibrous. This plant reproduces primarily by reseeding itself. The lower nodes of its stems can develop rootlets when they contact moist ground. Occasionally, colonies of plants of variable size will develop at favorable sites.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, wet to moist conditions, and soil containing loam or decaying organic material. Sometimes this plant establishes itself on fallen logs or the lower trunks of trees. Standing water is tolerated if it is temporary.
Range & Habitat: The native Swamp Beggar's Ticks is occasional in southern and central Illinois, while in the northern section of the state it is rare or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include swamps, banks of lakes, margins of ponds, low areas along rivers, and limestone sinkholes. This plant can be found in either disturbed or higher quality wetlands, favoring humid areas where there is some protection from the wind.
Faunal Associations: The non-showy flowerheads attract relatively few insect pollinators, although sometimes bees (including Halictid bees) and flies (including Syrphid, Tachinid, and bee flies) will either collect or feed on the nectar and pollen. In general, the foliage, stems, and other parts of Bidens spp. are a source of food for such insects as aphids (including Aphis coreopsidis & Brachycauda helichrysi), larvae of the fruit fly Icterica seriata, larvae of the leaf-mining flies Chromatomyia syngenesiae and Phytobia allecta, caterpillars of the butterfly Nathalis iole (Dainty Sulfur), larvae of several moths (including Cirrhophanus triangulifer and Epiblema otiosana), and leaf beetles (Calligrapha bidenticola & Calligrapha californica). See the Insect Table for a more complete listing of these species. The achenes or seedheads of Bidens spp. are consumed by some species of waterfowl, upland gamebirds, and songbirds, including the Mallard, Wood Duck, Greater Prairie Chicken, Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite Quail, Purple Finch, Common Redpoll, and Swamp Sparrow (Martin et al., 1951/1961; Havera, 1999; Schwartz, 1945). In addition, the Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina), Blanding's Turtle (Emys blandingii), and the Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta) sometimes feed on the seeds and possibly the foliage of these plants (Lagler, 1943; Ernst et al., 1994). The foliage is browsed sparingly by White-Tailed Deer and the Cottontail Rabbit. The awned achenes can cling to the feathers of birds, the fur of mammals, and the clothing of humans, which spreads Swamp Beggar's Ticks and other Bidens spp. to new locations.
Photographic Location: Border of a lake at Walnut Point State Park in Douglas County.
Comments: This is one of the Bidens spp. in Illinois with non-showy flowerheads because it lacks ray florets. Species in this group are often referred to as "Beggar's Ticks." Once the flowerheads are produced, Swamp Beggar's Ticks (Bidens discoidea) is fairly easy to distinguish from two similar species with 2-awned achenes, namely Common Beggar's Ticks (Bidens frondosa) and Tall Beggar's Ticks (Bidens vulgata). Most noticeably, the flowerheads of Swamp Beggar's Ticks have fewer outer bracts (typically 3-4) than those of Common Beggar's Ticks (typically 6-11) and Tall Beggar's Ticks (typically 13-20). In addition to having fewer outer bracts than these species, it also has smaller achenes with shorter awns. In contrast to the preceding species, other non-showy Bidens spp. in Illinois, such as Purple-Stemmed Tickseed (Bidens connata) and Three-Lobed Beggar's Ticks (Bidens comosa), can be distinguished from the preceding species by their 3- or 4-awned achenes. Sometimes Nodding Bur-Marigold (Bidens cernua) also lacks ray florets, but it has only simple leaves and its achenes are 4-awned. In comparison to the preceding Bidens spp., Swamp Beggar's Ticks has a rather delicate appearance because of its thin leaves and relatively small size.
Upper stems terminate in either individual or small clusters of 2-3 flowerheads. The peduncles of these flowerheads are relatively short (up to 12 mm. or ½" long). Each flowerhead is about 3-6 mm. across (excluding the outer bracts), consisting of 10-20 disk florets and no ray florets. The corollas of disk florets are yellow, short-tubular in shape, and 5-lobed; they are about 3 mm. long. Originating from the base of each flowerhead, there are 2-5 leafy outer bracts. The outer bracts are medium green, narrowly oblanceolate or elliptic in shape, and glabrous (or nearly so); they are up to 1½" (4 cm.) long and 8 mm. across (usually about one-half the maximum size, but highly variable). Around the base of each flowerhead, there are several inner bracts. These inner bracts are 4-6 mm. long, light green or yellowish green, oblong-ovate in shape, and appressed together in a slightly overlapping single series. The blooming occurs from late summer into the fall, lasting about 1½-2 months. In the absence of cross-pollination, the disk florets are self-fertile. Afterwards, the disk florets are replaced by achenes with pairs of awns. The achenes (excluding their awns) are about 4 mm. long, 1-1.5 mm. across, and flattened-oblanceoloid in shape; they are truncate at their apices, while their outer sides have faint midribs. The barbed awns of these achenes (2 awns per achene) are about 1 mm. in length. Mature achenes are greenish brown to dark brown.
The root system is shallow and fibrous. This plant reproduces primarily by reseeding itself. The lower nodes of its stems can develop rootlets when they contact moist ground. Occasionally, colonies of plants of variable size will develop at favorable sites.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, wet to moist conditions, and soil containing loam or decaying organic material. Sometimes this plant establishes itself on fallen logs or the lower trunks of trees. Standing water is tolerated if it is temporary.
Range & Habitat: The native Swamp Beggar's Ticks is occasional in southern and central Illinois, while in the northern section of the state it is rare or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include swamps, banks of lakes, margins of ponds, low areas along rivers, and limestone sinkholes. This plant can be found in either disturbed or higher quality wetlands, favoring humid areas where there is some protection from the wind.
Faunal Associations: The non-showy flowerheads attract relatively few insect pollinators, although sometimes bees (including Halictid bees) and flies (including Syrphid, Tachinid, and bee flies) will either collect or feed on the nectar and pollen. In general, the foliage, stems, and other parts of Bidens spp. are a source of food for such insects as aphids (including Aphis coreopsidis & Brachycauda helichrysi), larvae of the fruit fly Icterica seriata, larvae of the leaf-mining flies Chromatomyia syngenesiae and Phytobia allecta, caterpillars of the butterfly Nathalis iole (Dainty Sulfur), larvae of several moths (including Cirrhophanus triangulifer and Epiblema otiosana), and leaf beetles (Calligrapha bidenticola & Calligrapha californica). See the Insect Table for a more complete listing of these species. The achenes or seedheads of Bidens spp. are consumed by some species of waterfowl, upland gamebirds, and songbirds, including the Mallard, Wood Duck, Greater Prairie Chicken, Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite Quail, Purple Finch, Common Redpoll, and Swamp Sparrow (Martin et al., 1951/1961; Havera, 1999; Schwartz, 1945). In addition, the Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina), Blanding's Turtle (Emys blandingii), and the Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta) sometimes feed on the seeds and possibly the foliage of these plants (Lagler, 1943; Ernst et al., 1994). The foliage is browsed sparingly by White-Tailed Deer and the Cottontail Rabbit. The awned achenes can cling to the feathers of birds, the fur of mammals, and the clothing of humans, which spreads Swamp Beggar's Ticks and other Bidens spp. to new locations.
Photographic Location: Border of a lake at Walnut Point State Park in Douglas County.
Comments: This is one of the Bidens spp. in Illinois with non-showy flowerheads because it lacks ray florets. Species in this group are often referred to as "Beggar's Ticks." Once the flowerheads are produced, Swamp Beggar's Ticks (Bidens discoidea) is fairly easy to distinguish from two similar species with 2-awned achenes, namely Common Beggar's Ticks (Bidens frondosa) and Tall Beggar's Ticks (Bidens vulgata). Most noticeably, the flowerheads of Swamp Beggar's Ticks have fewer outer bracts (typically 3-4) than those of Common Beggar's Ticks (typically 6-11) and Tall Beggar's Ticks (typically 13-20). In addition to having fewer outer bracts than these species, it also has smaller achenes with shorter awns. In contrast to the preceding species, other non-showy Bidens spp. in Illinois, such as Purple-Stemmed Tickseed (Bidens connata) and Three-Lobed Beggar's Ticks (Bidens comosa), can be distinguished from the preceding species by their 3- or 4-awned achenes. Sometimes Nodding Bur-Marigold (Bidens cernua) also lacks ray florets, but it has only simple leaves and its achenes are 4-awned. In comparison to the preceding Bidens spp., Swamp Beggar's Ticks has a rather delicate appearance because of its thin leaves and relatively small size.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月08日
Description: This plant is a summer annual about 1-4½' tall, branching occasionally. The stems are light green to purple, more or less terete, and glabrous. Leaves are usually opposite, although some of the uppermost leaves may be alternate. The leaf blades are 2-6" long and ½-1½" across; they are lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate and coarsely serrated along their margins; some of the lower leaves often have 1-2 smaller basal lobes. The upper blade surface is medium green and glabrous, while the lower blade surface is pale-medium green and glabrous. During the autumn, the leaf blades often become purplish green or purple. The petioles are up to 2" long and usually narrow, although some of them may be partially winged.
The upper stems terminate in 1-3 flowerheads each on peduncles about ½-4" long. The peduncles are light green or purplish green, more or less terete, and glabrous. Each flowerhead spans ½-1¼" across (excluding the leafy bracts), consisting of numerous disk florets and usually no ray florets. When ray florets occur, they are insignificant and few in number. The corollas of the disk florets are yellow to orange, narrowly tubular in shape, and about 3 mm. (1/8") long; each corolla has 4-5 recurved to ascending lobes along its upper rim. The disk florets are perfect, while the ray florets, if they are present, are sterile. Surrounding the disk florets are about 8 floral bracts (phyllaries) that are yellowish brown or yellowish black, ovate in shape, and glabrous; they are about 6 mm. (¼") long. Originating from below both the disk florets and floral bracts, but spreading outward, there are 3-8 leafy bracts about ½-1½" long. The leafy bracts are green, glabrous, and oblanceolate, elliptic, or oblong in shape. The blooming period occurs from late summer into the fall, lasting about 1-2 months. The disk florets are replaced by awned achenes that are about 5-6 mm. in length (excluding the awns), oblanceolate in shape, and somewhat flattened. At the apex of each achene, there are 4 barbed awns consisting of two longer outer awns (about 4 mm. in length) and two shorter inner awns (about 2 mm. in length). However, because the 2 inner awns are fragile and often become detached, some achenes will have only 2-3 awns (or even less, should the outer awns become detached). The root system consists of a shallow branching taproot. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself, occasionally forming colonies.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to moderate shade and wet to moist conditions. Various types of soil are tolerated, including those that contain loam, silt, and clay. This plant is somewhat weedy.
Range & Habitat: The native Purple-Stemmed Tickseed is occasional in the northern half of Illinois, becoming uncommon or absent in the southern half of the state (see Distribution Map). Habitats consist of marshes, muddy areas of seasonal wetlands, streambanks, swamps, and ditches. Areas with a history of disturbance from flooding or other causes are preferred.
Faunal Associations: Robertson (1929) observed bumblebees sucking nectar from the flowerheads of Purple-Stemmed Tickseed. It is also likely that Halictid bees and miscellaneous flies also visit the flowerheads for nectar or pollen. The following aphids suck plant juices from this and other Bidens spp.: Aphis coreopsidis, Pemphigus tartareus, and Uroleucon chrysanthemi. The following leaf beetles feed on these plants and similar members of the Aster family: Calligrapha bidenticola, Calligrapha californica, and Calligrapha elegans. Other insects include foliage-consuming caterpillars of the butterfly Nathalis iole (Dainty Sulphur) and flowerhead-consuming larvae of the fruit fly Icterica seriata. The caterpillars of several moths feed on the foliage, feed on the flowerheads, or bore through the stems of Bidens spp. These species include Cirrhophanus triangulifer (Goldenrod Stowaway), Condica confederate (The Confederate), Condica mobilis (Mobile Groundling), and Epiblema otiosana (Bidens Borer Moth). Some vertebrate animals also feed on these plants. Such turtles as Chelydra serpentina (Snapping Turtle), Chrysemys picta (Painted Turtle), and Emys blandingii (Blanding's Turtle) eat the foliage or seeds (Ernst et al., 1994; Lagler, 1943). Several ducks, upland gamebirds, and granivorous songbirds also eat the seeds, including such species as the Wood Duck, Mallard, Black Duck, Wild Turkey, Ring-Necked Pheasant, Greater Prairie Chicken, Bobwhite Quail, Purple Finch, Common Redpoll, Swamp Sparrow, Pine Grosbeak, and Eastern Goldfinch (Martin et al., 1951/1961; Eastman, 2003). The foliage is eaten by the White-Tailed Deer and Cottontail Rabbit, although it is not a preferred source of food. Because the barbed awns of the achenes can cling to the fur of animals and the clothing of humans, they can be carried considerable distances to new locations.
Photographic Location: A shaded streambank at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This plant and other Bidens spp. are occasionally parasitized by various Cuscuta spp. (Dodders); the latter are vine-like plants without chlorophyll that often occur in wetlands. Because its ray florets are insignificant or absent, Purple-Stemmed Tickseed is one of the less showy species in this genus. It is relatively easy to confuse this species with other species in this genus that share this characteristic. In particular, Bidens comosa (Leafy-Bracted Tickseed) is similar in appearance. This latter species can be distinguished by the shorter petioles of its leaves (which are often winged), its longer leafy bracts (up to 2½" long), and the yellowish color of its stems. In addition, the corollas of the disk florets for this species have 4 lobes more often than 5 lobes, while the reverse is true for Purple-Stemmed Tickseed. The achenes of Purple-Stemmed Tickseed are also distinct: each of its achenes has 2 long outer awns and 2 short inner awns, although these awns (particularly the inner ones) often break off.
The upper stems terminate in 1-3 flowerheads each on peduncles about ½-4" long. The peduncles are light green or purplish green, more or less terete, and glabrous. Each flowerhead spans ½-1¼" across (excluding the leafy bracts), consisting of numerous disk florets and usually no ray florets. When ray florets occur, they are insignificant and few in number. The corollas of the disk florets are yellow to orange, narrowly tubular in shape, and about 3 mm. (1/8") long; each corolla has 4-5 recurved to ascending lobes along its upper rim. The disk florets are perfect, while the ray florets, if they are present, are sterile. Surrounding the disk florets are about 8 floral bracts (phyllaries) that are yellowish brown or yellowish black, ovate in shape, and glabrous; they are about 6 mm. (¼") long. Originating from below both the disk florets and floral bracts, but spreading outward, there are 3-8 leafy bracts about ½-1½" long. The leafy bracts are green, glabrous, and oblanceolate, elliptic, or oblong in shape. The blooming period occurs from late summer into the fall, lasting about 1-2 months. The disk florets are replaced by awned achenes that are about 5-6 mm. in length (excluding the awns), oblanceolate in shape, and somewhat flattened. At the apex of each achene, there are 4 barbed awns consisting of two longer outer awns (about 4 mm. in length) and two shorter inner awns (about 2 mm. in length). However, because the 2 inner awns are fragile and often become detached, some achenes will have only 2-3 awns (or even less, should the outer awns become detached). The root system consists of a shallow branching taproot. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself, occasionally forming colonies.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to moderate shade and wet to moist conditions. Various types of soil are tolerated, including those that contain loam, silt, and clay. This plant is somewhat weedy.
Range & Habitat: The native Purple-Stemmed Tickseed is occasional in the northern half of Illinois, becoming uncommon or absent in the southern half of the state (see Distribution Map). Habitats consist of marshes, muddy areas of seasonal wetlands, streambanks, swamps, and ditches. Areas with a history of disturbance from flooding or other causes are preferred.
Faunal Associations: Robertson (1929) observed bumblebees sucking nectar from the flowerheads of Purple-Stemmed Tickseed. It is also likely that Halictid bees and miscellaneous flies also visit the flowerheads for nectar or pollen. The following aphids suck plant juices from this and other Bidens spp.: Aphis coreopsidis, Pemphigus tartareus, and Uroleucon chrysanthemi. The following leaf beetles feed on these plants and similar members of the Aster family: Calligrapha bidenticola, Calligrapha californica, and Calligrapha elegans. Other insects include foliage-consuming caterpillars of the butterfly Nathalis iole (Dainty Sulphur) and flowerhead-consuming larvae of the fruit fly Icterica seriata. The caterpillars of several moths feed on the foliage, feed on the flowerheads, or bore through the stems of Bidens spp. These species include Cirrhophanus triangulifer (Goldenrod Stowaway), Condica confederate (The Confederate), Condica mobilis (Mobile Groundling), and Epiblema otiosana (Bidens Borer Moth). Some vertebrate animals also feed on these plants. Such turtles as Chelydra serpentina (Snapping Turtle), Chrysemys picta (Painted Turtle), and Emys blandingii (Blanding's Turtle) eat the foliage or seeds (Ernst et al., 1994; Lagler, 1943). Several ducks, upland gamebirds, and granivorous songbirds also eat the seeds, including such species as the Wood Duck, Mallard, Black Duck, Wild Turkey, Ring-Necked Pheasant, Greater Prairie Chicken, Bobwhite Quail, Purple Finch, Common Redpoll, Swamp Sparrow, Pine Grosbeak, and Eastern Goldfinch (Martin et al., 1951/1961; Eastman, 2003). The foliage is eaten by the White-Tailed Deer and Cottontail Rabbit, although it is not a preferred source of food. Because the barbed awns of the achenes can cling to the fur of animals and the clothing of humans, they can be carried considerable distances to new locations.
Photographic Location: A shaded streambank at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This plant and other Bidens spp. are occasionally parasitized by various Cuscuta spp. (Dodders); the latter are vine-like plants without chlorophyll that often occur in wetlands. Because its ray florets are insignificant or absent, Purple-Stemmed Tickseed is one of the less showy species in this genus. It is relatively easy to confuse this species with other species in this genus that share this characteristic. In particular, Bidens comosa (Leafy-Bracted Tickseed) is similar in appearance. This latter species can be distinguished by the shorter petioles of its leaves (which are often winged), its longer leafy bracts (up to 2½" long), and the yellowish color of its stems. In addition, the corollas of the disk florets for this species have 4 lobes more often than 5 lobes, while the reverse is true for Purple-Stemmed Tickseed. The achenes of Purple-Stemmed Tickseed are also distinct: each of its achenes has 2 long outer awns and 2 short inner awns, although these awns (particularly the inner ones) often break off.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月08日
Description: This annual plant is ½–3' tall, branching sparingly. The central stem is glabrous and occasionally angular. The opposite leaves are up to 5" long and 1" across, although usually smaller in size. They are linear-oblong to lanceolate-ovate, serrated along the margins, and hairless. These leaves are never lobed nor pinnately compound. At the base, the pairs of opposite leaves clasp the stem and nearly surround it (i.e., they're nearly connate), or they are sessile. The upper stems terminate in flowerheads about ½–1½" across. These flowerheads have a tendency to nod downward with age and the central head of disk florets becomes larger and more rounded. The corolla of each disk floret is yellow and narrowly tubular with 5 lobes. There are about 8 ray florets surrounding the disk florets, but sometimes they lack petaloid rays. When they are present, the petaloid rays are bright yellow and oblong-elliptic in shape; they are variable in length, depending on the local ecotype.
At the base of each flowerhead, there are both inner and outer bracts (phyllaries). The inner bracts are pale yellow, membranous along their margins, and rather broad, tapering to blunt tips. The outer bracts are green and oblong-linear. These latter bracts are about as long or longer than the petaloid rays, but they have a tendency to curl backward with age. There are about 6-10 outer bracts per flowerhead. The blooming period occurs from late summer to early fall and lasts about 1-2 months for a colony of plants. Each achene is oblongoid, although broader and somewhat truncated at its apex, where there are usually 4 barbed awns. The root system is shallow and branches frequently. This plant often forms colonies and spreads by reseeding itself; sometimes the lower portion of a stem will form rootlets at the leaf nodes when it lies against moist soil. Nodding Bur-Marigold is rather variable across its range. The leaves have a tendency to turn purple during the cool weather of autumn.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, wet conditions, and mucky soil. Occasional flooding is readily tolerated, although this species is not an emergent aquatic. Sometimes the leaves succumb to powdery mildew during the fall. This plant is less tolerant of dry conditions than other Bidens spp.
Range & Habitat: The native Nodding Bur-Marigold is common in central and northern Illinois, but occasional to absent in southern Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include swamps, bogs, seeps, marshes, edges of rivers and ponds, soggy meadows in floodplain areas, and ditches along roads and railroads. Nodding Bur-Marigold is often found in degraded wetlands, although it also occurs in higher quality wetlands.
Faunal Associations: Plants with showier flowers attract an abundance of bees, wasps, butterflies, skippers, moths, and various kinds of flies. Bee visitors include honey bees, bumblebees, long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), and plasterer bees (Colletes spp.). These insects suck nectar from the flowers; bees also collect pollen. The caterpillars of the butterfly Nathalis iole (Dainty Sulfur) feed on the foliage. The caterpillars of several species of moths also feed on Bidens spp., including Epiblema otiosana (Bidens Borer Moth), Cirrhophanus triangulifer (Goldenrod Stowaway), Condica mobilis (Mobile Groundling), and Condica confederata (The Confederate). Other insect feeders the leaf beetles Calligrapha bidenticola and Calligrapha californica, the fruit fly Icterica seriata, and several aphid species.
To a limited extent, the seeds of Bidens spp. are eaten by various kinds of birds, including the Mallard Duck, Swamp Sparrow, Purple Finch, and Common Redpoll (the latter during the winter). The foliage is occasionally eaten by the Cottontail Rabbit. The seeds of Bidens spp. are notorious for their ability to cling to the fur of animals, the feathers of birds, or the clothing of humans, by which means they are distributed far and wide.
Photographic Location: Along a drainage canal in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: The attractiveness of the flowers is variable, depending upon the length of the petaloid rays, which are not always present. It is fairly easy to distinguish Nodding Bur-Marigold from other Bidens spp. because of its undivided leaves and achenes with 4 awns (rarely fewer). Plants with flowerheads that are large and showy can resemble Bidens laevis (Smooth Bur-Marigold), but this latter species doesn't occur in Illinois. The petaloid rays of Smooth Bur-Marigold are at least as long as the outer floral bracts (phyllaries) and it usually has showier flowers. When the flowerheads of Nodding Bur-Marigold lack petaloid rays, this species can be confused with Bidens connata (Purple-Stemmed Beggar's Tick) and Bidens comosa (Swamp Beggar's Tick). Nodding Bur-Marigold differs from these latter species by its leaves, which are sessile or they clasp and nearly surround the stem. Purple-Stemmed Beggar's Tick and Swamp Beggar's Tick have leaves with distinct petioles that are winged or unwinged. The flowerheads of Nodding Bur-Marigold nod downward with age, while the flowerheads of the latter two species usually remain more erect.
At the base of each flowerhead, there are both inner and outer bracts (phyllaries). The inner bracts are pale yellow, membranous along their margins, and rather broad, tapering to blunt tips. The outer bracts are green and oblong-linear. These latter bracts are about as long or longer than the petaloid rays, but they have a tendency to curl backward with age. There are about 6-10 outer bracts per flowerhead. The blooming period occurs from late summer to early fall and lasts about 1-2 months for a colony of plants. Each achene is oblongoid, although broader and somewhat truncated at its apex, where there are usually 4 barbed awns. The root system is shallow and branches frequently. This plant often forms colonies and spreads by reseeding itself; sometimes the lower portion of a stem will form rootlets at the leaf nodes when it lies against moist soil. Nodding Bur-Marigold is rather variable across its range. The leaves have a tendency to turn purple during the cool weather of autumn.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, wet conditions, and mucky soil. Occasional flooding is readily tolerated, although this species is not an emergent aquatic. Sometimes the leaves succumb to powdery mildew during the fall. This plant is less tolerant of dry conditions than other Bidens spp.
Range & Habitat: The native Nodding Bur-Marigold is common in central and northern Illinois, but occasional to absent in southern Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include swamps, bogs, seeps, marshes, edges of rivers and ponds, soggy meadows in floodplain areas, and ditches along roads and railroads. Nodding Bur-Marigold is often found in degraded wetlands, although it also occurs in higher quality wetlands.
Faunal Associations: Plants with showier flowers attract an abundance of bees, wasps, butterflies, skippers, moths, and various kinds of flies. Bee visitors include honey bees, bumblebees, long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), and plasterer bees (Colletes spp.). These insects suck nectar from the flowers; bees also collect pollen. The caterpillars of the butterfly Nathalis iole (Dainty Sulfur) feed on the foliage. The caterpillars of several species of moths also feed on Bidens spp., including Epiblema otiosana (Bidens Borer Moth), Cirrhophanus triangulifer (Goldenrod Stowaway), Condica mobilis (Mobile Groundling), and Condica confederata (The Confederate). Other insect feeders the leaf beetles Calligrapha bidenticola and Calligrapha californica, the fruit fly Icterica seriata, and several aphid species.
To a limited extent, the seeds of Bidens spp. are eaten by various kinds of birds, including the Mallard Duck, Swamp Sparrow, Purple Finch, and Common Redpoll (the latter during the winter). The foliage is occasionally eaten by the Cottontail Rabbit. The seeds of Bidens spp. are notorious for their ability to cling to the fur of animals, the feathers of birds, or the clothing of humans, by which means they are distributed far and wide.
Photographic Location: Along a drainage canal in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: The attractiveness of the flowers is variable, depending upon the length of the petaloid rays, which are not always present. It is fairly easy to distinguish Nodding Bur-Marigold from other Bidens spp. because of its undivided leaves and achenes with 4 awns (rarely fewer). Plants with flowerheads that are large and showy can resemble Bidens laevis (Smooth Bur-Marigold), but this latter species doesn't occur in Illinois. The petaloid rays of Smooth Bur-Marigold are at least as long as the outer floral bracts (phyllaries) and it usually has showier flowers. When the flowerheads of Nodding Bur-Marigold lack petaloid rays, this species can be confused with Bidens connata (Purple-Stemmed Beggar's Tick) and Bidens comosa (Swamp Beggar's Tick). Nodding Bur-Marigold differs from these latter species by its leaves, which are sessile or they clasp and nearly surround the stem. Purple-Stemmed Beggar's Tick and Swamp Beggar's Tick have leaves with distinct petioles that are winged or unwinged. The flowerheads of Nodding Bur-Marigold nod downward with age, while the flowerheads of the latter two species usually remain more erect.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月08日
Description: This perennial wildflower is 1-2' tall, consisting of a cluster of unbranched flowering stems that are ascending to erect. The stems are light green to purplish green, terete, and nearly glabrous; the upper halves of the stems are often sparsely short-pubescent in lines underneath the petioles of the leaves. Pairs of leaves occur at fairly frequent intervals along the stems; both the leaves and stems contain a milky latex. These leaves are 2-5" long and ¼-1½" across; they are narrowly elliptic to ovate-elliptic in shape and smooth along their margins. Leaf tips taper gradually to acute points, while leaf bases are wedge-shaped. Leaf venation is pinnate with a prominent midvein and curving lateral veins. The upper leaf surface is medium to dark green, while the lower leaf surface is light to medium green; both surfaces are glabrous or nearly so (sometimes sparse fine hairs may occur along the lower sides of the central veins). The narrow petioles are ¼-¾" in length; they are light green to purplish green and grooved along their upper sides.
One or more umbels of flowers about 1½-2½" across are produced from the axils of the upper leaves; each umbel has 20-50 white to pinkish white flowers. The umbels are held more or less erect on rather stout peduncles about ½-2" long. Each flower is about ¼" across, consisting of 5 corolla lobes (or petals), 5 sepals, 5 hoods with horns, and a central reproductive column (gynostegium). The reflexed corolla lobes are generally white, although they are often pinkish along the undersides towards their tips. The white hoods are erect and scoop-shaped; the horns of these hoods are slender, curved slightly inward, and exerted. The inconspicuous sepals are pale green or pale purplish green, lanceolate-oblong in shape, and shorter than the corolla lobes. The pedicels are ¾-1¼" long, whitish green to pale purplish green, terete, and minutely pubescent. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer (or sometimes later), lasting about 1-2 months. The flowers are mildly fragrant. Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by lanceoloid seedpods (follicles) about 2½-3" long. The outer surfaces of these seedpods are smooth and glabrous. Immature seedpods are held erect, but they droop downward at maturity to release their seeds. These seeds have expanded coats, but they lack comas (tufts of hair); they are capable of floating on water for extended periods of time, thereby distributing them to new locations (Edwards et al., 1994). The root system consists of a woody crown. Decumbent stems on moist ground can develop rootlets, forming clonal offsets.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun to medium shade, wet to consistently moist conditions, and soil containing abundant organic matter. Standing water is tolerated if it is temporary.
Range & Habitat: The native White Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias perennis) is occasional in southern Illinois, while in the rest of the state it is absent (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the northern range limit of this species. Habitats include floodplain and bottomland woodlands, swamps (including Bald Cypress swamps), borders of ponds and streams in shady areas, and ditches. This milkweed is usually found in higher quality wetlands that are semi-shaded to shaded.
Faunal Associations: Little is known specifically about the floral-faunal relationships of White Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias perennis). The white flowers are probably cross-pollinated by various bees, wasps, butterflies, and moths. The floral reward of such visitors is nectar. Other insects feed on the foliage, seeds, roots, plant juices, and other parts of milkweeds. These insect feeders include stem- and root-boring larvae of Tetraopes tetrophthalmus (Red Milkweed Beetle), stem-boring larvae of the weevil Rhyssomatus lineaticollis, Labidomera clivicollis (Swamp Milkweed Beetle), Lygus kalmii (Small Milkweed Bug) and Oncopeltus fasciatus (Large Milkweed Bug), several aphid species, caterpillars of the butterfly Danaus plexippus (Monarch), and caterpillars of a few moths (see the Insect Table for a more complete listing of these species). Because the milky latex of the foliage is bitter-tasting and toxic, White Swamp Milkweed and other milkweeds are rarely eaten by mammalian herbivores. However, the seeds are a minor source of food to the White-Footed Mouse (Whitaker, 1966).
Photographic Location: A swamp in southern Illinois.
Comments: This is one of several white-flowered milkweeds (Asclepias spp.) in Illinois. It differs from these other species by its preference for shaded wetland habitats. The only other milkweed within the state that reliably prefers wetlands, Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed), is a taller plant with pink flowers; it also prefers wetlands that are more sunny. White Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias perennis) is unique among milkweeds within the state by its seeds, which lack comas (tufts of hair). Instead of wind-distribution, this milkweed relies on water to distribute its seeds to new locations. In addition to this characteristic, White Swamp Milkweed can be distinguished from other white-flowered milkweeds by the shape of its leaves, which are more narrow than those of Asclepias variegata (White Milkweed), but more broad than those of Asclepias verticillata (Whorled Milkweed). However, across its range, the leaves of White Swamp Milkweed can vary significantly in their average width. Another common name of Asclepias perennis is Thin-Leaved Milkweed.
One or more umbels of flowers about 1½-2½" across are produced from the axils of the upper leaves; each umbel has 20-50 white to pinkish white flowers. The umbels are held more or less erect on rather stout peduncles about ½-2" long. Each flower is about ¼" across, consisting of 5 corolla lobes (or petals), 5 sepals, 5 hoods with horns, and a central reproductive column (gynostegium). The reflexed corolla lobes are generally white, although they are often pinkish along the undersides towards their tips. The white hoods are erect and scoop-shaped; the horns of these hoods are slender, curved slightly inward, and exerted. The inconspicuous sepals are pale green or pale purplish green, lanceolate-oblong in shape, and shorter than the corolla lobes. The pedicels are ¾-1¼" long, whitish green to pale purplish green, terete, and minutely pubescent. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer (or sometimes later), lasting about 1-2 months. The flowers are mildly fragrant. Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by lanceoloid seedpods (follicles) about 2½-3" long. The outer surfaces of these seedpods are smooth and glabrous. Immature seedpods are held erect, but they droop downward at maturity to release their seeds. These seeds have expanded coats, but they lack comas (tufts of hair); they are capable of floating on water for extended periods of time, thereby distributing them to new locations (Edwards et al., 1994). The root system consists of a woody crown. Decumbent stems on moist ground can develop rootlets, forming clonal offsets.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun to medium shade, wet to consistently moist conditions, and soil containing abundant organic matter. Standing water is tolerated if it is temporary.
Range & Habitat: The native White Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias perennis) is occasional in southern Illinois, while in the rest of the state it is absent (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the northern range limit of this species. Habitats include floodplain and bottomland woodlands, swamps (including Bald Cypress swamps), borders of ponds and streams in shady areas, and ditches. This milkweed is usually found in higher quality wetlands that are semi-shaded to shaded.
Faunal Associations: Little is known specifically about the floral-faunal relationships of White Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias perennis). The white flowers are probably cross-pollinated by various bees, wasps, butterflies, and moths. The floral reward of such visitors is nectar. Other insects feed on the foliage, seeds, roots, plant juices, and other parts of milkweeds. These insect feeders include stem- and root-boring larvae of Tetraopes tetrophthalmus (Red Milkweed Beetle), stem-boring larvae of the weevil Rhyssomatus lineaticollis, Labidomera clivicollis (Swamp Milkweed Beetle), Lygus kalmii (Small Milkweed Bug) and Oncopeltus fasciatus (Large Milkweed Bug), several aphid species, caterpillars of the butterfly Danaus plexippus (Monarch), and caterpillars of a few moths (see the Insect Table for a more complete listing of these species). Because the milky latex of the foliage is bitter-tasting and toxic, White Swamp Milkweed and other milkweeds are rarely eaten by mammalian herbivores. However, the seeds are a minor source of food to the White-Footed Mouse (Whitaker, 1966).
Photographic Location: A swamp in southern Illinois.
Comments: This is one of several white-flowered milkweeds (Asclepias spp.) in Illinois. It differs from these other species by its preference for shaded wetland habitats. The only other milkweed within the state that reliably prefers wetlands, Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed), is a taller plant with pink flowers; it also prefers wetlands that are more sunny. White Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias perennis) is unique among milkweeds within the state by its seeds, which lack comas (tufts of hair). Instead of wind-distribution, this milkweed relies on water to distribute its seeds to new locations. In addition to this characteristic, White Swamp Milkweed can be distinguished from other white-flowered milkweeds by the shape of its leaves, which are more narrow than those of Asclepias variegata (White Milkweed), but more broad than those of Asclepias verticillata (Whorled Milkweed). However, across its range, the leaves of White Swamp Milkweed can vary significantly in their average width. Another common name of Asclepias perennis is Thin-Leaved Milkweed.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年06月08日
Description: This plant is a summer annual that often branches at the base, otherwise it is usually unbranched. The erect or sprawling stems are about ½–1' long. They are light green, glabrous, and eitherFlower & Foliage round or angular in circumference. Pairs of opposite leaves occur at intervals along these stems. They are up to 2½" long, ¼" across, linear or linear-lanceolate, smooth along the margins, and glabrous. Each leaf clasps the stem at the base, where it often has a pair of small shallow lobes (i.e., it is auriculate). Along the upper surface of each leaf, there is a conspicuous central vein that runs along its length. From 1-7 flowers are produced in tight clusters in the upper axil of each leaf. These flowers are sessile, or nearly so. Usually, fewer flowers are produced per axil in the upper leaves (about 1-3) than in the lower leaves (about 3-7). Each flower is about ¼" across, consisting of 4 rounded petals that are pink or purple, a tubular calyx that is divided into 4 segments that form ridges at their edges, 4 or 8 stamens with yellow anthers, and a stout central style. The calyx is initially green or purple, but it later becomes red when the seeds begin to ripen. In the middle of each calyx segment, there is a secondary ridge along its length; these 4 secondary ridges are slightly less pronounced than the 4 primary ridges between the segments of the calyx. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about 2-3 months. Individual flowers are short-lived. An ovoid seed capsule develops within the surrounding calyx that causes it to swell in diameter. This capsule contains numerous tiny seeds that are shiny and yellow. These seeds are small enough to be blown about by the wind, and they probably float on water. The root system consists of a shallow tuft of roots. This plant spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, wet conditions, and muddy soil. The seeds germinate better if they are temporarily submerged in water, and then left in muddy soil. This emulates their natural habitat.
Range & Habitat: The native Scarlet Toothcup is an occasional to locally common plant in most areas of Illinois, except in the upper two tiers of counties, where it is largely absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include muddy shores of ponds, mud flats along rivers, ditches, limestone quarries, and grassy areas that are prone to occasional flooding. This species tolerates disturbs conditions in wetlands.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts various insects, including small bees (Little Carpenter, Halictid), Syrphid flies, Tachinid flies, and small- to medium-sized butterflies (Whites, Sulfurs, & others). The bees also collect pollen. The seed capsules are eaten by ducks during the fall and winter, including Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard), Anas acuta (Northern Pintail), and Anas crecca (Green-Winged Teal). The foliage is not known to be toxic, and it is probably eaten by Branta canadensis (Canada Goose).
Photographic Location: Along the muddy shore of a pond in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: The common name, 'Scarlet Toothcup,' refers to the appearance of the fruits when they begin to ripen during the fall. Another common name for this species is 'Purple Ammannia,' which refers to the color of the flowers. Scarlet Toothcup is a wetland species that is not very showy and often overlooked, although it is useful as a source of food for waterfowl. The only other species in this genus that occurs in Illinois, Ammannia robusta (Robust Toothcup), was formerly regarded as a subspecies of Scarlet Toothcup, or Ammannia coccinea robusta. However, genetic analysis has revealed that it is a distinct species. Robust Toothcup occurs primarily in NE Illinois and has an appearance that is similar to Scarlet Toothcup. The petals of its flowers are light pink to pink and there are only 1-3 flowers (or seed capsules) per leaf axil, whereas Scarlet Toothcup has flower petals that range from pink to purple and there are often 3-5 flowers (or seed capsules) per axil among the lower leaves (and sometimes even more). Another wetland species in the Loosestrife family with a similar appearance is Rotala ramosior (Wheelwort). Unlike the preceding Toothcup species, Wheelwort has only a single flower or seed capsule per leaf axil, and the petals of its flowers are white. Whereas the Toothcup species have leaves that clasp their stems, the leaves of Wheelwort are sessile.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, wet conditions, and muddy soil. The seeds germinate better if they are temporarily submerged in water, and then left in muddy soil. This emulates their natural habitat.
Range & Habitat: The native Scarlet Toothcup is an occasional to locally common plant in most areas of Illinois, except in the upper two tiers of counties, where it is largely absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include muddy shores of ponds, mud flats along rivers, ditches, limestone quarries, and grassy areas that are prone to occasional flooding. This species tolerates disturbs conditions in wetlands.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts various insects, including small bees (Little Carpenter, Halictid), Syrphid flies, Tachinid flies, and small- to medium-sized butterflies (Whites, Sulfurs, & others). The bees also collect pollen. The seed capsules are eaten by ducks during the fall and winter, including Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard), Anas acuta (Northern Pintail), and Anas crecca (Green-Winged Teal). The foliage is not known to be toxic, and it is probably eaten by Branta canadensis (Canada Goose).
Photographic Location: Along the muddy shore of a pond in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: The common name, 'Scarlet Toothcup,' refers to the appearance of the fruits when they begin to ripen during the fall. Another common name for this species is 'Purple Ammannia,' which refers to the color of the flowers. Scarlet Toothcup is a wetland species that is not very showy and often overlooked, although it is useful as a source of food for waterfowl. The only other species in this genus that occurs in Illinois, Ammannia robusta (Robust Toothcup), was formerly regarded as a subspecies of Scarlet Toothcup, or Ammannia coccinea robusta. However, genetic analysis has revealed that it is a distinct species. Robust Toothcup occurs primarily in NE Illinois and has an appearance that is similar to Scarlet Toothcup. The petals of its flowers are light pink to pink and there are only 1-3 flowers (or seed capsules) per leaf axil, whereas Scarlet Toothcup has flower petals that range from pink to purple and there are often 3-5 flowers (or seed capsules) per axil among the lower leaves (and sometimes even more). Another wetland species in the Loosestrife family with a similar appearance is Rotala ramosior (Wheelwort). Unlike the preceding Toothcup species, Wheelwort has only a single flower or seed capsule per leaf axil, and the petals of its flowers are white. Whereas the Toothcup species have leaves that clasp their stems, the leaves of Wheelwort are sessile.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年06月08日
Description: This perennial plant consists of a rosette of basal leaves about 1' tall. The basal leaves are up to 7" long and 4" across (excluding the long petioles), and they are oval to ovate in shape. Their margins are smooth, while both the upper and lower surfaces are devoid of hairs. The leaf venation is parallel primarily, although there are secondary veins that radiate laterally to provide a slightly wrinkly appearance to the upper surface. The texture of these leaves is rather thick and fleshy. From the center of the rosette, a large whorled panicle of flowers develops during the summer that is up to 3' tall. This inflorescence is heavily branched and more or less erect. The green flowering stalks are hairless, and sometimes angular or finely ribbed along their length. At the base of each group of whorled branchlets, there are 3 deciduous green bracts that are lanceolate with elongated pointed tips.
The small flowers are individually about ¼" across. Each flower consists of 3 white petals, 3 green sepals, and 6 stamens. There is a small patch of yellow at the base of each petal, while the center of the flower is green. For this species of water plantain, the petals are about 50% longer than the sepals. The blooming period usually occurs during mid-summer and lasts about a month. Each flower is replaced by a flat whorl of seeds (technically, they are achenes). Each flat-sided seed is longer than broad, with a tiny beak at the top. The seeds are probably distributed by the movement of water. The root system consists of a cluster of shallow fibrous roots and rhizomes. This plant often forms colonies.
Cultivation: This emergent-aquatic plant prefers shallow water or wet mucky soil. The surrounding water should be slow-moving or stagnant. It can withstand droughty conditions better than most emergent-aquatic plants, although the foliage may become yellowish green in response. Full or partial sun is required, otherwise this plant may not bloom.
Range & Habitat: Large-Flowered Water Plantain is an uncommon plant that is found primarily in northern Illinois and scattered counties in central Illinois (see Distribution Map). This native plant occurs primarily in seasonal wetlands that are prone to drying out during summer droughts, including shallow marshes, edges of shallow ponds and lakes, sloughs and temporary pools in wet meadows or prairies, and shallow slow-moving streams. Like Alisma subcordatum (Small-Flowered Water Plantain), this species can tolerate considerable disturbance.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are visited by flower flies, small bees (usually Halictid bees), and small beetles (such as ladybird beetles) for their nectar or pollen. Two aphids, Rhopalosiphum nymphaeae (Waterlily Aphid) and Rhopalosiphum nigrum, suck plant juices from Alisma spp. during the summer. The latter aphid has been found only in Canada so far. Deer occasionally chomp off the panicles of flowers and the tops of the foliage. Apparently, waterfowl and other kinds of birds rarely eat the seeds.
Photographic Location: A seasonal wetland consisting of small pools of water at Judge Webber Park in Urbana, Illinois. The photographs were taken during a major drought when the pools of water had dried up – the plants produced large healthy panicles of flowers, nonetheless.
Comments: The large inflorescence of Alisma triviale has a rather ungainly appearance because the flowers are so small. The more common Alisma subcordatum (Small-Flowered Water Plantain) has even smaller flowers (only about 1/8" across), with the petals about the same length as the sepals. Otherwise, these two species are similar in appearance. In the past, they have been considered different varieties of the same species, Alisma plantago-aquatica americanum and Alisma plantago-aquatica parviflorum. The scientific name Alisma plantago-aquatica is commonly used for the water plantain of Eurasia. The common name refers to the similarity of the leaves to those of the common yard weed, Plantago major (Common Plantain).
The small flowers are individually about ¼" across. Each flower consists of 3 white petals, 3 green sepals, and 6 stamens. There is a small patch of yellow at the base of each petal, while the center of the flower is green. For this species of water plantain, the petals are about 50% longer than the sepals. The blooming period usually occurs during mid-summer and lasts about a month. Each flower is replaced by a flat whorl of seeds (technically, they are achenes). Each flat-sided seed is longer than broad, with a tiny beak at the top. The seeds are probably distributed by the movement of water. The root system consists of a cluster of shallow fibrous roots and rhizomes. This plant often forms colonies.
Cultivation: This emergent-aquatic plant prefers shallow water or wet mucky soil. The surrounding water should be slow-moving or stagnant. It can withstand droughty conditions better than most emergent-aquatic plants, although the foliage may become yellowish green in response. Full or partial sun is required, otherwise this plant may not bloom.
Range & Habitat: Large-Flowered Water Plantain is an uncommon plant that is found primarily in northern Illinois and scattered counties in central Illinois (see Distribution Map). This native plant occurs primarily in seasonal wetlands that are prone to drying out during summer droughts, including shallow marshes, edges of shallow ponds and lakes, sloughs and temporary pools in wet meadows or prairies, and shallow slow-moving streams. Like Alisma subcordatum (Small-Flowered Water Plantain), this species can tolerate considerable disturbance.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are visited by flower flies, small bees (usually Halictid bees), and small beetles (such as ladybird beetles) for their nectar or pollen. Two aphids, Rhopalosiphum nymphaeae (Waterlily Aphid) and Rhopalosiphum nigrum, suck plant juices from Alisma spp. during the summer. The latter aphid has been found only in Canada so far. Deer occasionally chomp off the panicles of flowers and the tops of the foliage. Apparently, waterfowl and other kinds of birds rarely eat the seeds.
Photographic Location: A seasonal wetland consisting of small pools of water at Judge Webber Park in Urbana, Illinois. The photographs were taken during a major drought when the pools of water had dried up – the plants produced large healthy panicles of flowers, nonetheless.
Comments: The large inflorescence of Alisma triviale has a rather ungainly appearance because the flowers are so small. The more common Alisma subcordatum (Small-Flowered Water Plantain) has even smaller flowers (only about 1/8" across), with the petals about the same length as the sepals. Otherwise, these two species are similar in appearance. In the past, they have been considered different varieties of the same species, Alisma plantago-aquatica americanum and Alisma plantago-aquatica parviflorum. The scientific name Alisma plantago-aquatica is commonly used for the water plantain of Eurasia. The common name refers to the similarity of the leaves to those of the common yard weed, Plantago major (Common Plantain).
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年06月08日
Description: This perennial plant is 1–3½' tall, consisting of tufts of basal leaves that emerge directly from a spreading rootstock. These basal leaves are erect and sword-shaped, resembling the basal leaves of Iris spp. (Irises), but more green. They are flattened (on one side more than the other), smooth along the margins, and have parallel veins. There is often an off-center ridge/indentation along the length of each leaf. Sometimes the base of the leaves or their margins are slightly red. Some leaves develop a cylindrical spadix that is about 2–4" in length and semi-erect. This spadix is covered with tiny greenish yellow flowers in a diamond-shaped pattern. Each flower has 6 tepals and 6 stamens. The spathe is regarded as absent by some authorities, while others consider the spathe to be a bract-like extension of the basal leaf. The blooming period occurs from late spring to early summer and lasts about a month. Both the crushed foliage and rootstocks have a pleasant aromatic fragrance. Because Sweet Flag is a sterile polyploid species, it doesn't produce any fruit with fertile seeds. The root system consists of shallow branching rhizomes that are stout and knobby; they have a brown exterior and white interior. Tufts of basal leaves occur at intervals along these rhizomes, while coarse fibrous roots develop below. This plant spreads vegetatively by its rhizomes and often forms colonies.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun and wet mucky ground or shallow water along shores. This species is semi-aquatic. It is fairly easy to establish from pieces of the rhizome.
Range & Habitat: The non-native Sweet Flag occurs occasionally throughout Illinois, although it is less common or absent in the NW and southern areas of the state (see Distribution Map). It was introduced into North America for medicinal, ornamental, and other purposes. Sweet Flag is native to India, central Asia, and probably Eastern Europe. Habitats include sedge meadows that are prone to flooding, edges of small lakes and ponds, marshes, swamps, seeps and springs, and wetland restorations. Even though this is an introduced plant, it has been found in both high quality and degraded wetlands.
Faunal Associations: Muskrats are fond of the rootstocks and readily consume them. Otherwise, little information is available about floral-faunal relationships.
Photographic Location: Along the shore of a small lake at a city park in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: The rootstocks of this aromatic plant are used as a natural insecticide and an ingredient of perfumes. They were used by Amerindians for various medicinal purposes, and reportedly induce hallucinations if eaten in sufficiently large quantities. These properties are primarily the result of Alpha-asarone and Beta-asarone; the latter has been found to be carcinogenic. As a consequence, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of the rootstocks as a food additive. A similar species, Acorus americanus (American Sweet Flag), is restricted to the northern half of North America. It is virtually identical to Acorus calamus (Sweet Flag), except that it has several prominent veins along the length of each leaf. Sweet Flag has a single prominent vein on each leaf that is marked by an off-center ridge/indentation along its length. Another difference is that American Sweet Flag is a fertile diploid that produces fruit with viable seeds. In the past, this species was regarded as a variety of Sweet Flag, and it was referred to as Acorus calamus americanus. American Sweet Flag contains Alpha-asarone, but it lacks significant amounts of the carcinogenic Beta-asarone – therefore, it may be safer to use in the preparations that are described above. The Acorus spp. (Sweet Flags) were classified in the Araceae (Arum family) in the past, but they have been reclassified to their own family, the Acoraceae, as a result of recent chromosomal studies.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun and wet mucky ground or shallow water along shores. This species is semi-aquatic. It is fairly easy to establish from pieces of the rhizome.
Range & Habitat: The non-native Sweet Flag occurs occasionally throughout Illinois, although it is less common or absent in the NW and southern areas of the state (see Distribution Map). It was introduced into North America for medicinal, ornamental, and other purposes. Sweet Flag is native to India, central Asia, and probably Eastern Europe. Habitats include sedge meadows that are prone to flooding, edges of small lakes and ponds, marshes, swamps, seeps and springs, and wetland restorations. Even though this is an introduced plant, it has been found in both high quality and degraded wetlands.
Faunal Associations: Muskrats are fond of the rootstocks and readily consume them. Otherwise, little information is available about floral-faunal relationships.
Photographic Location: Along the shore of a small lake at a city park in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: The rootstocks of this aromatic plant are used as a natural insecticide and an ingredient of perfumes. They were used by Amerindians for various medicinal purposes, and reportedly induce hallucinations if eaten in sufficiently large quantities. These properties are primarily the result of Alpha-asarone and Beta-asarone; the latter has been found to be carcinogenic. As a consequence, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of the rootstocks as a food additive. A similar species, Acorus americanus (American Sweet Flag), is restricted to the northern half of North America. It is virtually identical to Acorus calamus (Sweet Flag), except that it has several prominent veins along the length of each leaf. Sweet Flag has a single prominent vein on each leaf that is marked by an off-center ridge/indentation along its length. Another difference is that American Sweet Flag is a fertile diploid that produces fruit with viable seeds. In the past, this species was regarded as a variety of Sweet Flag, and it was referred to as Acorus calamus americanus. American Sweet Flag contains Alpha-asarone, but it lacks significant amounts of the carcinogenic Beta-asarone – therefore, it may be safer to use in the preparations that are described above. The Acorus spp. (Sweet Flags) were classified in the Araceae (Arum family) in the past, but they have been reclassified to their own family, the Acoraceae, as a result of recent chromosomal studies.
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