文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月17日
Description: This perennial plant is 1-3½' tall and unbranched, except near the apex where the flowering stems occur. The stems are round and covered with fine white hairs. They are initially green, but often become brown with age. The alternate leaves are up to 4" long and 1½" across. They are sessile against the stem toward the top, but have short petioles near the bottom. These leaves are lanceolate, smooth or sparingly dentate, grey- or yellow-green, and finely pubescent. The smaller leaves near the flowerheads are much reduced in size and linear. Sometimes there are small leaves appearing in the upper axils of the larger leaves along the central stem.
The upper stems terminate in small corymbs of flowerheads. These flowerheads consist of 7-21 small creamy white florets. A floret is narrowly tubular with 5 small lobes and a protruding divided style. Each flowerhead is subtended by a cylinder of narrow green bracts; it is a little less than ½" long. The blooming period occurs during late summer or early fall, and lasts about a month. The achenes are long and cylindrical, grey or light brown, and have tufts of white hair (or sometimes tawny hair). These tufts of hair are often more striking in appearance than the flowers. Seed distribution is provided by the wind. The root system consists of a central taproot that can run deep into the ground. Sometimes, this plant will tiller at the base, sending up multiple stems from the taproot. However, it doesn't reproduce vegetatively by means of rhizomes, unlike many other prairie plants.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and dry conditions; a little shade is also tolerated. This plant prefers poor soil that contains too much clay, sand, or gravel, and it can thrive on slopes. Its toleration of drought is better than most plants in the tallgrass prairie. The leaves may turn yellow and start to shrivel away toward the end of the year, but this is normal. This plant doesn't spread aggressively.
Range & Habitat: The native False Boneset occurs occasionally in central and northern Illinois; in many areas of southern Illinois, it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitat includes dry upland areas of black soil prairies, gravel prairies, dolomite prairies, clay prairies, hill prairies, bluffs, limestone glades, open woodlands, and sandy savannas. False Boneset doesn't form large colonies, but is more likely to occur as sporadic plants. In moist areas with rich soil, it has trouble competing with taller, more aggressive forbs and grasses.
Faunal Associations: Bumblebees, leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees, and other bees visit the flowerheads for nectar and pollen (Mitchell, 1960/1962; Moure & Hurd, 1987). Butterflies, skippers, and probably other insects visit the flowerheads for nectar and/or pollen too. The caterpillars of some flower moths feed destructively on the flowerheads and developing seeds; they include such species as Schinia trifascia (Three-lined Flower Moth), Schinia oleagina (Oleagina Flower Moth), and Schinia grandimedia (False Boneset Flower Moth). The last moth occurs in areas that lie mostly west of Illinois. Other insects feeders include Lygus lineolaris (Tarnished Plant Bug) and other polyphagous stink bugs, Aphis coreopsidis (an aphid), and larvae of a Noctuid moth, Dichagyris grotei (Panzer, 2000; Vestal, 1913; Hottes & Frison, 1931). In addition, such grasshoppers as Melanoplus confusus (Little Pasture Grasshopper), Melanoplus differentialis (Differential Grasshopper), Melanoplus keeleri (Keeler's Grasshopper), and Melanoplus discolor (Contrasting Spur-throated Grasshopper) feed on False Boneset. The last grasshopper is monophagous on this plant, although it occurs in areas that lie west of Illinois (Campbell et al., 1974; Joern, 1985; Brust et al., 2008). Mammalian herbivores browse on False Boneset occasionally when little else is available, but its foliage is bitter and overall food value is low. In pastures, False Boneset is considered an 'increaser' because livestock are not particularly fond of it.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: False Boneset is similar in appearance to Tall Boneset (Eupatorium altissimum). However, the former plant has alternate leaves along its stems with only one conspicuous vein, while the latter has opposite leaves with three conspicuous veins. An older scientific name for False Boneset is Kuhnia eupatorioides.
The upper stems terminate in small corymbs of flowerheads. These flowerheads consist of 7-21 small creamy white florets. A floret is narrowly tubular with 5 small lobes and a protruding divided style. Each flowerhead is subtended by a cylinder of narrow green bracts; it is a little less than ½" long. The blooming period occurs during late summer or early fall, and lasts about a month. The achenes are long and cylindrical, grey or light brown, and have tufts of white hair (or sometimes tawny hair). These tufts of hair are often more striking in appearance than the flowers. Seed distribution is provided by the wind. The root system consists of a central taproot that can run deep into the ground. Sometimes, this plant will tiller at the base, sending up multiple stems from the taproot. However, it doesn't reproduce vegetatively by means of rhizomes, unlike many other prairie plants.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and dry conditions; a little shade is also tolerated. This plant prefers poor soil that contains too much clay, sand, or gravel, and it can thrive on slopes. Its toleration of drought is better than most plants in the tallgrass prairie. The leaves may turn yellow and start to shrivel away toward the end of the year, but this is normal. This plant doesn't spread aggressively.
Range & Habitat: The native False Boneset occurs occasionally in central and northern Illinois; in many areas of southern Illinois, it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitat includes dry upland areas of black soil prairies, gravel prairies, dolomite prairies, clay prairies, hill prairies, bluffs, limestone glades, open woodlands, and sandy savannas. False Boneset doesn't form large colonies, but is more likely to occur as sporadic plants. In moist areas with rich soil, it has trouble competing with taller, more aggressive forbs and grasses.
Faunal Associations: Bumblebees, leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees, and other bees visit the flowerheads for nectar and pollen (Mitchell, 1960/1962; Moure & Hurd, 1987). Butterflies, skippers, and probably other insects visit the flowerheads for nectar and/or pollen too. The caterpillars of some flower moths feed destructively on the flowerheads and developing seeds; they include such species as Schinia trifascia (Three-lined Flower Moth), Schinia oleagina (Oleagina Flower Moth), and Schinia grandimedia (False Boneset Flower Moth). The last moth occurs in areas that lie mostly west of Illinois. Other insects feeders include Lygus lineolaris (Tarnished Plant Bug) and other polyphagous stink bugs, Aphis coreopsidis (an aphid), and larvae of a Noctuid moth, Dichagyris grotei (Panzer, 2000; Vestal, 1913; Hottes & Frison, 1931). In addition, such grasshoppers as Melanoplus confusus (Little Pasture Grasshopper), Melanoplus differentialis (Differential Grasshopper), Melanoplus keeleri (Keeler's Grasshopper), and Melanoplus discolor (Contrasting Spur-throated Grasshopper) feed on False Boneset. The last grasshopper is monophagous on this plant, although it occurs in areas that lie west of Illinois (Campbell et al., 1974; Joern, 1985; Brust et al., 2008). Mammalian herbivores browse on False Boneset occasionally when little else is available, but its foliage is bitter and overall food value is low. In pastures, False Boneset is considered an 'increaser' because livestock are not particularly fond of it.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: False Boneset is similar in appearance to Tall Boneset (Eupatorium altissimum). However, the former plant has alternate leaves along its stems with only one conspicuous vein, while the latter has opposite leaves with three conspicuous veins. An older scientific name for False Boneset is Kuhnia eupatorioides.
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月17日
Description: This is an unbranched perennial plant about 1-2' tall. Side stems may develop from upper leaf axils if the central stem is damaged. This stout central stem is 4-angled and it is covered with short white hairs that are usually appressed. The opposite leaves are up to 3½" long and 1½" across. They are broadly oblong to lanceolate in shape, and have smooth, slightly ciliate margins. The lower leaves have short stout petioles, while the upper leaves are sessile. They have deep pinnate venation and are covered with a white pubescence. The upper half of the central stem is perforated by whorled clusters of flowers. Each cluster of flowers is about 2-3" across and in the shape of a flattened sphere, with the flowers arranged in circular rows. The flowers are white, light pink, or lavender, and individually slightly less than ½" long. There are two prominent lips, with small purple spots on the lower one, and fine hairs in the back. The blooming period occurs during early summer and lasts about a month. Neither the flowers nor the leaves have a noticeable scent. The root system consists of a taproot, which forms offshoots occasionally by means of short rhizomes. The seeds are quite small, and distributed by the wind to some extent.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, and mesic to dry conditions. The soil can contain significant amounts of loam, clay, or gravel; limestone and a high pH are tolerated. The foliage can be affected by the usual diseases that attack other mints, and often appear rather ragged by mid-summer. This plant has greater tolerance to drought than most other members of Mint family.
Range & Habitat: Downy Wood Mint occurs occasionally in scattered counties in Illinois – it has been reported most often from counties in the NE and west-central areas of the state (see Distribution Map). This plant is native to Illinois. Habitats include mesic to dry black soil prairies, dolomite prairies, thickets, savannas, limestone bluffs, and limestone glades.
Faunal Associations: The flowers attract long-tongued and short-tongued bees, bee flies, Syrphid flies, butterflies, and skippers. The numerous bee visitors include honeybees, bumblebees, Anthophorine bees, little carpenter bees, leaf-cutting bees, Halictine bees, masked bees, and others. The small seeds are unlikely to be of much interest to birds, nor is the foliage an attractive source of food to mammalian herbivores.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Loda Cemetery Prairie in Iroquois County, Illinois.
Comments: This plant can be easily confused with some of the weedier Eurasian mints, but should not be destroyed because it is not particularly common in Illinois. Notwithstanding its common name, Downy Wood Mint occurs in open areas more often than woodlands, unlike other members of the genus, such as Blephilia hirsuta (Hairy Wood Mint). The stems of the latter species have long spreading hairs, while the stems of Downy Wood Mint usually have short appressed hairs. Other common names for Blephilia ciliata are 'Ohio Horsemint' and 'Pagoda Plant.'
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, and mesic to dry conditions. The soil can contain significant amounts of loam, clay, or gravel; limestone and a high pH are tolerated. The foliage can be affected by the usual diseases that attack other mints, and often appear rather ragged by mid-summer. This plant has greater tolerance to drought than most other members of Mint family.
Range & Habitat: Downy Wood Mint occurs occasionally in scattered counties in Illinois – it has been reported most often from counties in the NE and west-central areas of the state (see Distribution Map). This plant is native to Illinois. Habitats include mesic to dry black soil prairies, dolomite prairies, thickets, savannas, limestone bluffs, and limestone glades.
Faunal Associations: The flowers attract long-tongued and short-tongued bees, bee flies, Syrphid flies, butterflies, and skippers. The numerous bee visitors include honeybees, bumblebees, Anthophorine bees, little carpenter bees, leaf-cutting bees, Halictine bees, masked bees, and others. The small seeds are unlikely to be of much interest to birds, nor is the foliage an attractive source of food to mammalian herbivores.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Loda Cemetery Prairie in Iroquois County, Illinois.
Comments: This plant can be easily confused with some of the weedier Eurasian mints, but should not be destroyed because it is not particularly common in Illinois. Notwithstanding its common name, Downy Wood Mint occurs in open areas more often than woodlands, unlike other members of the genus, such as Blephilia hirsuta (Hairy Wood Mint). The stems of the latter species have long spreading hairs, while the stems of Downy Wood Mint usually have short appressed hairs. Other common names for Blephilia ciliata are 'Ohio Horsemint' and 'Pagoda Plant.'
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月16日
Description: This wildflower consists of a low rosette of basal leaves up to 6" across; a mature plant will produce one or more flowering stalks about ½–1' tall. The blades of the basal leaves are up to 3" long and 2½" across; they have stout hairy petioles up to 1½" long. The basal leaves are more or less oval in shape, crenate along their margins, palmately veined, and hairy on both their upper and lower surfaces; the upper surface of each leaf is medium green, while the lower surface is pale green or pale purplish green. Each flowering stalk is stout, erect, terete, light green, and very hairy; it has small alternate leaves up to 1¼" long and ½" across, which become gradually smaller as they ascend toward the inflorescence. The alternate leaves are similar to the basal leaves, except they are ovate in shape and smaller in size. Each alternate leaf is sessile or it clasps the stalk.
The inflorescence consists of a stout spike of small flowers about 2-6" long. These flowers are densely clustered along the spike, facing in all directions. Underneath each flower, there is a small leafy bract that is lanceolate. Each flower has a 2-lipped corolla that is cream-colored or pale yellow, and a calyx consisting of 4 green sepals that are elliptic and hairy. The corolla is about 5 mm. long and slightly longer than the calyx; the upper lip of the corolla is unlobed, while the irregular lower lip is unlobed or divided into 2-3 lobes. Each flower has a pair of exserted stamens and a slender white style. The blooming period occurs from mid-spring to early summer, lasting about 3 weeks for a colony of plants. The flowers bloom gradually from the bottom of the spike to its apex. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by small 2-celled seed capsules; each capsule contains several seeds. The root system consists of a cluster of coarse fibrous roots; an older plant may form a small caudex. This wildflower occasionally forms colonies at favorable sites.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, dry conditions, and a barren acidic soil that is sandy or gravelly. Partial sun is also acceptable. This wildflower grows slowly and doesn't tolerate competition from taller, more aggressive plants. It is adaptable to sunny rock gardens and there are few problems with pests and disease.
Range & Habitat: The native Kittentails is restricted to the west-central and northwest sections of Illinois, where it is rare (see Distribution Map). This wildflower is state-listed as 'threatened.' Habitats include dry sand prairies, dry gravel prairies, hill prairies, barren savannas, thinly wooded bluffs, and sandy or gravelly riverbanks. This species is restricted to high quality habitats in natural areas; it is endemic to the Midwest and uncommon throughout its range.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated by small bees, especially Halictid bees that seek nectar and/or pollen. The following Halictid bees have been observed to visit the flowers of Kittentails: Auglochlorella striata, Lasioglossum anomalum, and Lasioglossum vierecki (McKone et al., 1995; Moure & Hurd, 1987). Additional information about floral-faunal relationships is unavailable.
Photographic Location: The wildflower garden of the webmaster in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: While not particularly showy, Kittentails is an unusual little plant. It resembles some broad-leaved Plantago spp. (Plantains), but the floral spike of Kittentails is more stout and its flowers are insect-pollinated. The closest relatives (either Besseya spp. or Synthyris spp.) are found in mountainous areas of the western states. These latter species usually have flowers (or floral bracts) that are purple, otherwise they are similar in appearance to their eastern counterpart. Another scientific name of Kittentails is Wulfenia bullii.
The inflorescence consists of a stout spike of small flowers about 2-6" long. These flowers are densely clustered along the spike, facing in all directions. Underneath each flower, there is a small leafy bract that is lanceolate. Each flower has a 2-lipped corolla that is cream-colored or pale yellow, and a calyx consisting of 4 green sepals that are elliptic and hairy. The corolla is about 5 mm. long and slightly longer than the calyx; the upper lip of the corolla is unlobed, while the irregular lower lip is unlobed or divided into 2-3 lobes. Each flower has a pair of exserted stamens and a slender white style. The blooming period occurs from mid-spring to early summer, lasting about 3 weeks for a colony of plants. The flowers bloom gradually from the bottom of the spike to its apex. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by small 2-celled seed capsules; each capsule contains several seeds. The root system consists of a cluster of coarse fibrous roots; an older plant may form a small caudex. This wildflower occasionally forms colonies at favorable sites.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, dry conditions, and a barren acidic soil that is sandy or gravelly. Partial sun is also acceptable. This wildflower grows slowly and doesn't tolerate competition from taller, more aggressive plants. It is adaptable to sunny rock gardens and there are few problems with pests and disease.
Range & Habitat: The native Kittentails is restricted to the west-central and northwest sections of Illinois, where it is rare (see Distribution Map). This wildflower is state-listed as 'threatened.' Habitats include dry sand prairies, dry gravel prairies, hill prairies, barren savannas, thinly wooded bluffs, and sandy or gravelly riverbanks. This species is restricted to high quality habitats in natural areas; it is endemic to the Midwest and uncommon throughout its range.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated by small bees, especially Halictid bees that seek nectar and/or pollen. The following Halictid bees have been observed to visit the flowers of Kittentails: Auglochlorella striata, Lasioglossum anomalum, and Lasioglossum vierecki (McKone et al., 1995; Moure & Hurd, 1987). Additional information about floral-faunal relationships is unavailable.
Photographic Location: The wildflower garden of the webmaster in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: While not particularly showy, Kittentails is an unusual little plant. It resembles some broad-leaved Plantago spp. (Plantains), but the floral spike of Kittentails is more stout and its flowers are insect-pollinated. The closest relatives (either Besseya spp. or Synthyris spp.) are found in mountainous areas of the western states. These latter species usually have flowers (or floral bracts) that are purple, otherwise they are similar in appearance to their eastern counterpart. Another scientific name of Kittentails is Wulfenia bullii.
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月16日
Description: This perennial herbaceous plant is 2½–4' tall at maturity. It has a branched bushy shape above, but it is unbranched below. The root system often sends up more than one shoot; each shoot develops into a separate plant. The central stem of each plant is unbranched and naked below (to about 1' above the ground), but branched above; it is relatively stout, light green to gray, terete, glabrous, and usually glaucous. The widely spreading to ascending lateral stems have similar characteristics, except they are more slender. As a general rule, both the central stem and lateral stems become more gray and glaucous with age. Alternate trifoliate leaves occur along the lateral stems and upper stem where it branches. Individual leaflets are 1.5–4 cm. long and 0.8–2 cm. across; their size can vary significantly depending on the characteristics of the parent species and their relative dominance in genetic expression. Individual leaflets are oblanceolate to obovate in shape, while their margins are toothless and often revolute (folded downward).
The leaflet bases are wedge-shaped (cuneate), while their tips are more or less rounded. Young leaflets are medium green and glabrous, but with age they become bluish green or grayish green on their upper surface and whitened on their lower surface. A reticulated network of fine veins is visible on the whitened lower surface of older leaves. The petioles of lower to middle trifoliate leaves are 4-8 mm. long, while the upper trifoliate leaves are nearly sessile. The petioles are light green to gray, slender, and finely grooved above. The petiolules of the terminal leaflets are very short (about 1 mm. in length), while the lateral leaflets are almost sessile. The central stem terminates in a spike-like raceme of flowers about 1' long, while the upper lateral stems terminate in spike-like racemes of flowers about 4-8" long. These racemes are usually erect, although some of the lateral racemes may be ascending. The flowers are distributed somewhat loosely along these racemes, facing in all directions. The central stalks (rachises and peduncles) of these racemes are grayish green to gray, terete, glabrous, and usually glaucous. Each flower is about ¾" long, ½" tall, and ½" across, consisting of 5 yellow petals, a grayish green to gray short-tubular calyx, 10 inserted stamens, and a pistil.
The petals are arranged in a typical pea-like floral structure, consisting of an upright banner and a forward-projecting pair of wings covering an interior keel. The lateral margins of the banner are curved away from the face of the flower, and the base of the banner may have a few small purplish splotches. The calyx is somewhat 2-lipped: its lower lip has 3 deltate-ovate teeth, while its upper lip is more or less convexly rounded. The slightly ascending pedicels of the flowers are 4-7 mm. long, slender, grayish green to gray, and glabrous. During the flower bud stage, there are also solitary floral bracts extending below the pedicels. These floral bracts are about the same length as the pedicels, linear-lanceolate in shape, and early-deciduous. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer, lasting about 3-4 weeks. There is no noticeable floral scent. Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by seedpods.
Mature seedpods are ¾" long, ½" across, obovoid-oblongoid in shape, somewhat inflated, and black; they are usually tapering in the front and abruptly rounded in the back. Each seedpod has a long slender stipe (about ½" long) that is straight and a short slender beak (about ¼" long) that is often somewhat curved. The walls of the mature pod are thin but firm; its usually contains a few seeds, otherwise it is hollow. The root system has thick rhizomes that are reddish brown and somewhat woody, from which more than one clonal plant can develop.
Cultivation: The preference is full to partial sun, mesic to dry conditions, and sandy loam, although heavier soils and the presence of gravel or rocky material is tolerated if drainage is good. Once danger of frost has passed, growth and development of an established plant is rapid. After the blooming period, this plant continues to grow, but at a much slower pace. This hybrid plant is adaptable to sunny situations, relatively long-lived, and easy to cultivate.
Range & Habitat: The native Deam's Wild Indigo is rare in Illinois, occurring as a natural hybrid in a single county (Kankakee County); see Distribution Map. It has also been found in a single county in NW Indiana, where it is also rare. In Illinois, Deam's Wild Indigo occurs in a sandy savanna and a sand prairie, where its two parent species, Baptisia alba macrophylla (White Wild Indigo) and Baptisia tinctoria (Yellow Wild Indigo), are also present. This hybrid species occurs in high quality natural areas that are usually sandy. Like other Baptisia spp. (Wild Indigo species), it probably benefits from occasional wildfires.
Faunal Associations: Various insects and their larvae feed on Baptisia spp. (Wild Indigo species). These species include the seed-eating larvae of a weevil (Apion rostrum), leaf-mining larvae of leaf beetles (Pachybrachis luridus, Pachybrachis trinotatus), seed-eating broad-headed bugs (Alydus conspersus, Alydus eurinus, Alydus pilosulus, Megalotomus quinquespinosus), leaf-mining larvae of a fly (Liriomyza baptisiae), larvae of the skippers Achalarus lyciades (Hoary Edge) and Erynnis baptisiae (Wild Indigo Duskywing), larvae of the butterfly Callophrys irus (Frosted Elfin), larvae of the Pyralid moths Pococera baptisiella (Wild Indigo Webworm Moth) and Sitochroa dasconalis (Pearly Indigo Borer Moth), larvae of the Tortricid moth Grapholita tristrigana (Three-lined Grapholita), and the oligophagous Neohydatothrips baptisiae (Wild Indigo Thrips); see Panzer et al. (2006), Clark et al. (2004), Bouseman et al. (2006), Bouseman & Sternburg (2001), Schaefer (1980), and Spencer & Steyskal (1986). Mammalian herbivores avoid consumption of Wild Indigo foliage because it is toxic to them.
Photographic Location: The wildflower garden of the webmaster in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: There is some disagreement among taxonomists regarding the classification of this hybrid plant. The ITIS and USDA, for example, consider Baptisia × deamii (Deam's Wild Indigo) to be a junior synonym of Baptisia × serenae (Serene Wild Indigo), which was originally described as a distinct species (Baptisia serenae) occurring along the SE coast of the United States. This view has been rejected because Baptisia × serenae is now widely considered a hybrid between Baptisia albescens (Spiked Wild Indigo) and Baptisia tinctoria (Yellow Wild Indigo), while Baptisia × deamii is considered a hybrid between Baptisia alba macrophylla (White Wild Indigo) and Baptisia tinctoria (Yellow Wild Indigo). This latter viewpoint is consistent with BONAP and Mohlenbrock (2014). Because both Baptisia alba macrophylla and Baptisia tinctoria have relatively broad ranges in the eastern United States and they are somewhat variable, specimens of Deam's Wild Indigo may exhibit significant variation in the size, shape, and hairiness of its leaves (if they are present, such hairs are restricted to the lower leaf surfaces). Deam's Wild Indigo can be readily distinguished from White Wild Indigo by its yellow flowers and usually smaller leaves, and it can be distinguished from Yellow Wild Indigo by its longer racemes (easily exceeding 4" in length), lack of branching on the lower central stem, and usually slightly larger leaves. Serene Wild Indigo, which is not found in Illinois, can be distinguished by the more cylindrical shape and reddish brown to purplish brown color of its mature seedpods.
The leaflet bases are wedge-shaped (cuneate), while their tips are more or less rounded. Young leaflets are medium green and glabrous, but with age they become bluish green or grayish green on their upper surface and whitened on their lower surface. A reticulated network of fine veins is visible on the whitened lower surface of older leaves. The petioles of lower to middle trifoliate leaves are 4-8 mm. long, while the upper trifoliate leaves are nearly sessile. The petioles are light green to gray, slender, and finely grooved above. The petiolules of the terminal leaflets are very short (about 1 mm. in length), while the lateral leaflets are almost sessile. The central stem terminates in a spike-like raceme of flowers about 1' long, while the upper lateral stems terminate in spike-like racemes of flowers about 4-8" long. These racemes are usually erect, although some of the lateral racemes may be ascending. The flowers are distributed somewhat loosely along these racemes, facing in all directions. The central stalks (rachises and peduncles) of these racemes are grayish green to gray, terete, glabrous, and usually glaucous. Each flower is about ¾" long, ½" tall, and ½" across, consisting of 5 yellow petals, a grayish green to gray short-tubular calyx, 10 inserted stamens, and a pistil.
The petals are arranged in a typical pea-like floral structure, consisting of an upright banner and a forward-projecting pair of wings covering an interior keel. The lateral margins of the banner are curved away from the face of the flower, and the base of the banner may have a few small purplish splotches. The calyx is somewhat 2-lipped: its lower lip has 3 deltate-ovate teeth, while its upper lip is more or less convexly rounded. The slightly ascending pedicels of the flowers are 4-7 mm. long, slender, grayish green to gray, and glabrous. During the flower bud stage, there are also solitary floral bracts extending below the pedicels. These floral bracts are about the same length as the pedicels, linear-lanceolate in shape, and early-deciduous. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer, lasting about 3-4 weeks. There is no noticeable floral scent. Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by seedpods.
Mature seedpods are ¾" long, ½" across, obovoid-oblongoid in shape, somewhat inflated, and black; they are usually tapering in the front and abruptly rounded in the back. Each seedpod has a long slender stipe (about ½" long) that is straight and a short slender beak (about ¼" long) that is often somewhat curved. The walls of the mature pod are thin but firm; its usually contains a few seeds, otherwise it is hollow. The root system has thick rhizomes that are reddish brown and somewhat woody, from which more than one clonal plant can develop.
Cultivation: The preference is full to partial sun, mesic to dry conditions, and sandy loam, although heavier soils and the presence of gravel or rocky material is tolerated if drainage is good. Once danger of frost has passed, growth and development of an established plant is rapid. After the blooming period, this plant continues to grow, but at a much slower pace. This hybrid plant is adaptable to sunny situations, relatively long-lived, and easy to cultivate.
Range & Habitat: The native Deam's Wild Indigo is rare in Illinois, occurring as a natural hybrid in a single county (Kankakee County); see Distribution Map. It has also been found in a single county in NW Indiana, where it is also rare. In Illinois, Deam's Wild Indigo occurs in a sandy savanna and a sand prairie, where its two parent species, Baptisia alba macrophylla (White Wild Indigo) and Baptisia tinctoria (Yellow Wild Indigo), are also present. This hybrid species occurs in high quality natural areas that are usually sandy. Like other Baptisia spp. (Wild Indigo species), it probably benefits from occasional wildfires.
Faunal Associations: Various insects and their larvae feed on Baptisia spp. (Wild Indigo species). These species include the seed-eating larvae of a weevil (Apion rostrum), leaf-mining larvae of leaf beetles (Pachybrachis luridus, Pachybrachis trinotatus), seed-eating broad-headed bugs (Alydus conspersus, Alydus eurinus, Alydus pilosulus, Megalotomus quinquespinosus), leaf-mining larvae of a fly (Liriomyza baptisiae), larvae of the skippers Achalarus lyciades (Hoary Edge) and Erynnis baptisiae (Wild Indigo Duskywing), larvae of the butterfly Callophrys irus (Frosted Elfin), larvae of the Pyralid moths Pococera baptisiella (Wild Indigo Webworm Moth) and Sitochroa dasconalis (Pearly Indigo Borer Moth), larvae of the Tortricid moth Grapholita tristrigana (Three-lined Grapholita), and the oligophagous Neohydatothrips baptisiae (Wild Indigo Thrips); see Panzer et al. (2006), Clark et al. (2004), Bouseman et al. (2006), Bouseman & Sternburg (2001), Schaefer (1980), and Spencer & Steyskal (1986). Mammalian herbivores avoid consumption of Wild Indigo foliage because it is toxic to them.
Photographic Location: The wildflower garden of the webmaster in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: There is some disagreement among taxonomists regarding the classification of this hybrid plant. The ITIS and USDA, for example, consider Baptisia × deamii (Deam's Wild Indigo) to be a junior synonym of Baptisia × serenae (Serene Wild Indigo), which was originally described as a distinct species (Baptisia serenae) occurring along the SE coast of the United States. This view has been rejected because Baptisia × serenae is now widely considered a hybrid between Baptisia albescens (Spiked Wild Indigo) and Baptisia tinctoria (Yellow Wild Indigo), while Baptisia × deamii is considered a hybrid between Baptisia alba macrophylla (White Wild Indigo) and Baptisia tinctoria (Yellow Wild Indigo). This latter viewpoint is consistent with BONAP and Mohlenbrock (2014). Because both Baptisia alba macrophylla and Baptisia tinctoria have relatively broad ranges in the eastern United States and they are somewhat variable, specimens of Deam's Wild Indigo may exhibit significant variation in the size, shape, and hairiness of its leaves (if they are present, such hairs are restricted to the lower leaf surfaces). Deam's Wild Indigo can be readily distinguished from White Wild Indigo by its yellow flowers and usually smaller leaves, and it can be distinguished from Yellow Wild Indigo by its longer racemes (easily exceeding 4" in length), lack of branching on the lower central stem, and usually slightly larger leaves. Serene Wild Indigo, which is not found in Illinois, can be distinguished by the more cylindrical shape and reddish brown to purplish brown color of its mature seedpods.
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月16日
Description: This perennial plant is up to 1½' tall and 3' across. One or more stems originate from the root system of each plant; these stems branch occasionally and they are ascending to widely spreading. The stems are light green to light purple and terete; for var. bracteata they are either pubescent or hairy, while for var. glabrescens they are glabrous. Alternate trifoliate leaves occur at intervals along these stems. Individual leaflets are 1–3" long and ½–1" across; they are usually oblanceolate in shape, but sometimes they are broadly elliptic or rhombic-elliptic. Leaf margins are smooth (entire). The leaf surfaces are grayish green; for var. bracteata they are appressed-hairy, while for var. glabrescens they are glabrous (Mohlenbrock, 2002). Leaf venation is pinnate. The trifoliate leaves are usually sessile or nearly so; less often, they have pedicels up to 1½" long. At the base of each trifoliate leaf (or its pedicel), there is a pair of leafy stipules; sometimes these stipules are early-deciduous and absent. These stipules can be highly variable in size (less than ¼" to 1½" long); they are sessile and usually lanceolate in shape with smooth margins. Like the leaflets, the stipules are grayish green and appressed hairy to glabrous, depending on the variety. The upper and outer stems of this plant often terminate in racemes of flowers about 3-9" long. These racemes are widely spreading and they are either held above the ground or they sprawl across it. The pedicellate flowers of these racemes face upward toward the light.
Individual flowers are about 1" long and a little less across; they have a typical pea-like floral structure consisting of an upright banner (1 petal) and a pair of wings (2 petals) that enclose the keel (2 petals). These petals are white to pale yellow (more or less cream-colored) and hairless. In addition to a corolla consisting of 5 petals, each flower has a short-tubular calyx with 4-5 triangular teeth, 10 stamens, and a pistil with a single style. The calyx is light green to light purple and less than ½" long; depending on the variety of this plant, it is either appressed-hairy or glabrous. The pedicels of the flowers are about ¾–1½" long, light green to light purple, and either hairy or glabrous. At the bases of these pedicels, there occurs solitary floral bracts that are about ½–1" long, lanceolate in shape, smooth along their margins, and sessile; they are similar to the stipules. The blooming period occurs during mid- to late spring for about 3 weeks. Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by seedpods that are 1-2" long, short-oblongoid in shape, slightly flattened, and mostly hollow inside. These seedpods have conspicuous beaks at their tips. Immature seedpods are light green and short-pubescent to glabrous; they become black at maturity. Later in the year, an entire plant may break off at its base, and roll around in the wind as a means of dispersing its seeds. Each seedpod divides into 2 parts to release its seeds; typically there are 5-20 seeds per seedpod. Individual seeds are about 4 mm. long, light brown to black, reniform (kidney-shaped), and glabrous. The root system consists of a stout taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and soil containing some sand or loam. Cream Wild Indigo prefers open areas where there is reduced competition from taller vegetation. While it is possible to cultivate this plant in the garden using seeds or transplants, it develops slowly as most vegetative growth occurs during the cool weather of spring after the danger of hard frost has passed. Mature plants can be difficult to transplant because of their deep taproots.
Range & Habitat: The native Cream Wild Indigo occurs in scattered locations throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map), but it is uncommon, except at high quality sites. The typical variety, Baptisia bracteata bracteata, is more common in Illinois than Baptisia bracteata glabrescens. Natural habitats include mesic to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, cemetery prairies, railroad prairies, open rocky woodlands, and sandy savannas. Occasional wildfires are beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant.
Faunal Associations: This plant is cross-pollinated primarily by queen bumblebees after they emerge from hibernation during the spring. Worker bumblebees appear somewhat later. Other long-tongued bees that have been observed to visit the flowers include a digger bee (Synhalonia speciosa) and mason bee (Osmia bucephala bucephala). These insects usually seek nectar from the flowers, although they sometimes collect pollen (Robertson, 1929). Other insects feed on the leaves, seeds, and other parts of Cream Wild Indigo and other Baptisia spp. These species include the larvae of such skippers as the Wild Indigo Duskywing (Erynnis baptisiae) and Hoary Edge (Achalarus lyciades), the larvae of such moths as the Three-lined Grapholita (Grapholita tristrigana) and Black-spotted Prominent (Dasylophia anguina), and the larvae of such butterflies as the Frosted Elfin (Callophrys irus), Orange Sulphur (Colias eurytheme), and Marine Blue (Leptotes marina); see Bouseman et al. (2006), Miller (1987), Wagner (2005), and Bouseman & Sternburg (2001). Another insect feeder is the Wild Indigo Weevil (Apion rostrum); the adults feed destructively on the flowers and leaves, while the larvae feed on the seeds (Sauer, 2005). Other insects that use Cream Wild Indigo and other Baptisia spp. as host plants include a leaf beetle (Pachybrachis luridus), seed-eating broad-headed bugs (Alydus spp.), oligophagous thrips (Neohydatothrips baptisiae), Keeler's Grasshopper (Melanoplus keeleri luridus), and other grasshoppers (Melanoplus spp., etc.); see Clark et al. (2004), Schaefer (1980), Stannard (1968), and Campbell et al. (1974). Cream Wild Indigo is not normally bothered by mammalian herbivores because its foliage is toxic. When horses and cattle eat sufficient quantities of this plant, as well as other Baptisia spp. that may be present, they can become seriously poisoned.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the Loda Cemetery Prairie in Iroquois County, Illinois. The photographed plants are the typical variety of Cream Wild Indigo.
Comments: This is one of the earliest plants to bloom in the prairie, and it is quite showy and attractive. With the exception of the Blue Wild Indigo (Baptisia australis), other Baptisia spp. that occur in Illinois bloom later in the year. This latter species is rare in natural areas of the state, although it is relatively common in cultivation because of the showy blue flowers. Another species, White Wild Indigo (Baptisia alba macrophylla), is a taller plant with white flowers. It differs from Cream Wild Indigo by having erect racemes of flowers, rather than racemes that are widely spreading or sprawl across the ground. The foliage of this latter species is glabrous. Yellow Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria) is also rare in natural areas of the state, occurring in sand prairies and sandy savannas in Kankakee County. This species is about the same height as Cream Wild Indigo, but its flowers are smaller in size and more yellow, while its foliage is glabrous. Unlike the preceding species of this genus, Yellow Wild Indigo doesn't produce flowers in elongated racemes. Another scientific name of Cream Wild Indigo is Baptisia leucophaea.
Individual flowers are about 1" long and a little less across; they have a typical pea-like floral structure consisting of an upright banner (1 petal) and a pair of wings (2 petals) that enclose the keel (2 petals). These petals are white to pale yellow (more or less cream-colored) and hairless. In addition to a corolla consisting of 5 petals, each flower has a short-tubular calyx with 4-5 triangular teeth, 10 stamens, and a pistil with a single style. The calyx is light green to light purple and less than ½" long; depending on the variety of this plant, it is either appressed-hairy or glabrous. The pedicels of the flowers are about ¾–1½" long, light green to light purple, and either hairy or glabrous. At the bases of these pedicels, there occurs solitary floral bracts that are about ½–1" long, lanceolate in shape, smooth along their margins, and sessile; they are similar to the stipules. The blooming period occurs during mid- to late spring for about 3 weeks. Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by seedpods that are 1-2" long, short-oblongoid in shape, slightly flattened, and mostly hollow inside. These seedpods have conspicuous beaks at their tips. Immature seedpods are light green and short-pubescent to glabrous; they become black at maturity. Later in the year, an entire plant may break off at its base, and roll around in the wind as a means of dispersing its seeds. Each seedpod divides into 2 parts to release its seeds; typically there are 5-20 seeds per seedpod. Individual seeds are about 4 mm. long, light brown to black, reniform (kidney-shaped), and glabrous. The root system consists of a stout taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and soil containing some sand or loam. Cream Wild Indigo prefers open areas where there is reduced competition from taller vegetation. While it is possible to cultivate this plant in the garden using seeds or transplants, it develops slowly as most vegetative growth occurs during the cool weather of spring after the danger of hard frost has passed. Mature plants can be difficult to transplant because of their deep taproots.
Range & Habitat: The native Cream Wild Indigo occurs in scattered locations throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map), but it is uncommon, except at high quality sites. The typical variety, Baptisia bracteata bracteata, is more common in Illinois than Baptisia bracteata glabrescens. Natural habitats include mesic to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, cemetery prairies, railroad prairies, open rocky woodlands, and sandy savannas. Occasional wildfires are beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant.
Faunal Associations: This plant is cross-pollinated primarily by queen bumblebees after they emerge from hibernation during the spring. Worker bumblebees appear somewhat later. Other long-tongued bees that have been observed to visit the flowers include a digger bee (Synhalonia speciosa) and mason bee (Osmia bucephala bucephala). These insects usually seek nectar from the flowers, although they sometimes collect pollen (Robertson, 1929). Other insects feed on the leaves, seeds, and other parts of Cream Wild Indigo and other Baptisia spp. These species include the larvae of such skippers as the Wild Indigo Duskywing (Erynnis baptisiae) and Hoary Edge (Achalarus lyciades), the larvae of such moths as the Three-lined Grapholita (Grapholita tristrigana) and Black-spotted Prominent (Dasylophia anguina), and the larvae of such butterflies as the Frosted Elfin (Callophrys irus), Orange Sulphur (Colias eurytheme), and Marine Blue (Leptotes marina); see Bouseman et al. (2006), Miller (1987), Wagner (2005), and Bouseman & Sternburg (2001). Another insect feeder is the Wild Indigo Weevil (Apion rostrum); the adults feed destructively on the flowers and leaves, while the larvae feed on the seeds (Sauer, 2005). Other insects that use Cream Wild Indigo and other Baptisia spp. as host plants include a leaf beetle (Pachybrachis luridus), seed-eating broad-headed bugs (Alydus spp.), oligophagous thrips (Neohydatothrips baptisiae), Keeler's Grasshopper (Melanoplus keeleri luridus), and other grasshoppers (Melanoplus spp., etc.); see Clark et al. (2004), Schaefer (1980), Stannard (1968), and Campbell et al. (1974). Cream Wild Indigo is not normally bothered by mammalian herbivores because its foliage is toxic. When horses and cattle eat sufficient quantities of this plant, as well as other Baptisia spp. that may be present, they can become seriously poisoned.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the Loda Cemetery Prairie in Iroquois County, Illinois. The photographed plants are the typical variety of Cream Wild Indigo.
Comments: This is one of the earliest plants to bloom in the prairie, and it is quite showy and attractive. With the exception of the Blue Wild Indigo (Baptisia australis), other Baptisia spp. that occur in Illinois bloom later in the year. This latter species is rare in natural areas of the state, although it is relatively common in cultivation because of the showy blue flowers. Another species, White Wild Indigo (Baptisia alba macrophylla), is a taller plant with white flowers. It differs from Cream Wild Indigo by having erect racemes of flowers, rather than racemes that are widely spreading or sprawl across the ground. The foliage of this latter species is glabrous. Yellow Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria) is also rare in natural areas of the state, occurring in sand prairies and sandy savannas in Kankakee County. This species is about the same height as Cream Wild Indigo, but its flowers are smaller in size and more yellow, while its foliage is glabrous. Unlike the preceding species of this genus, Yellow Wild Indigo doesn't produce flowers in elongated racemes. Another scientific name of Cream Wild Indigo is Baptisia leucophaea.
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月16日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant sends up one or more leafy stems (usually several) that branch abundantly, forming a bushy appearance. The stems are light green or whitish green, terete, glabrous, and sometimes glaucous. Alternate trifoliate leaves occur along the entire length of each stem, changing little in size. Their leaflets are ¾–1½" long and about one-half to one-third as much across; they are oblanceolate to obovate in shape and entire (toothless) along their margins. The leaflet bottoms are wedge-shaped (cuneate), while their tips are more rounded and blunt. The upper and lower leaflet surfaces are grayish green, medium green, or bluish green; they are glabrous. The leaflets have prominent central veins; their surfaces are more or less inclined (angled upward) along both sides of these veins. The leaflets are sessile or nearly so. The petioles of the trifoliate leaves are up to ½" long; they are light green and glabrous. At the bases of petioles, there are pairs of leafy stipules. Individual stipules are up to ¾" long, although they are typically about ¼" long. The stipules are linear-lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate in shape and entire along their margins. The upper stems terminate in erect racemes of flowers about ½–1½' long; the flowers are moderately distributed along these racemes. The central stalks of these racemes are light green or whitish green, terete, glabrous, and sometimes glaucous. Each flower is about 1" long, consisting of a tubular calyx with 4-5 short teeth, a corolla consisting of 5 petals, 10 stamens, and a pistil with a single style. The calyx is light green or grayish green and glabrous; it is shorter than the corolla. The corolla is pale blue to dark blue; it has a typical pea-like floral structure, consisting of an upright banner and a pair of forward-projecting wings that enclose a keel containing the reproductive organs. The slender pedicels of the flowers are up to ½" long and ascending; at the bases of these pedicels, there are solitary leafy bracts up to 1¼" long that are linear-lanceolate in shape and early-deciduous. The blooming period occurs during mid- to late spring for about 3 weeks. There is no noticeable floral scent.
Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by inflated glabrous seedpods that become up to 2½" long and ¾" across. These seedpods are short-oblongoid in shape with slender beaked tips. Immature seedpods are light green or grayish green, but they become black at maturity, when they split in two to release their seeds. Each healthy seedpod contains 25-50 seeds, although fewer seeds may occur because of predation or adverse weather conditions. Individual seeds are 2–2.5 mm. long, kidney-shaped (reniform), and light to dark brown. The root system consists of a branching taproot that often forms clonal offsets.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and a slightly acidic soil that is gravelly or rocky. Blue Wild Indigo readily adapts to fertile loamy soil in gardens, but in naturalistic settings it may have difficulty competing with other plants. Blue Wild Indigo is somewhat slow in becoming established, but it is not difficult to cultivate. Once this plant becomes established, it is very tolerant of drought and long-lived. Like many other legumes, its root system binds nitrogen to the soil via symbiotic bacteria.
Range & Habitat: Blue Wild Indigo may be native to NE Illinois in the Chicago area, or it could be a horticultural escape (see Distribution Map). In either case, this plant is extremely rare, and perhaps extirpated from the state as wild populations have not been observed in many years. The primary range of Blue Wild Indigo extends northward to the Ohio River, although isolated populations of this plant have been found further to the north in several states. A dwarf variety of this species also occurs further to the west. Habitats include rocky open woodlands, gravel prairies, and rocky banks of rivers. Occasional wildfires are probably beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant by reducing competition from woody vegetation
Faunal Associations: Queen bumblebees are the primary pollinators of the flowers, where they feed on nectar primarily. Other insects feed destructively on the leaves, developing seeds, and other parts of Blue Wild Indigo and other Wild Indigos (Baptisia spp.). These species include larvae of two moths, the Three-lined Grapholita (Grapholita tristrigana) and Black-rimmed Prominent (Dasylophia anguina), larvae of two skippers, the Wild Indigo Duskywing (Erynnis baptisiae) and Hoary Edge (Achalarus lyciades), and larvae of three butterflies, the Frosted Elfin (Callophrys irus), Marine Blue (Leptotes marina), and Orange Sulfur (Colias eurytheme); see Miller (1987), Covell (1984/2005), Bouseman et al. (2006), and Bouseman & Sternburg (2001). Other insect feeders include the Wild Indigo Weevil (Apion rostrum) and another weevil (Tychius sordidus). The larvae of these weevils feed on the developing seeds, while the adults feed on the leaves and flowers. The Ash-Gray Blister Beetle (Epicauta fabricii) feeds on the flowers and young seed pods, while two leaf beetles, Pachybrachis luridus and Pachybrachis trinotatus, feed on the leaves of Wild Indigos. The Lupine Bug (Megalotomus quinquespinosus) and other broad-headed bugs (Alydus spp.) feed on the seeds. The thrips, Neohydatothrips baptisiae, also uses these plants as sources of food. See Sauer (2005), Evans et al. (1989), Clark et al. (2004), Schaeffer (1980), and Stannard (1968) for more information. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid the consumption of Blue Wild Indigo and other Wild Indigos because their foliage is somewhat toxic.
Photographic Location: The above photographs were taken from the webmaster's wildflower garden in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is a favorite garden plant because of its showy flowers and attractive foliage. There is a dwarf variety of Blue Wild Indigo, Baptisia australis minor, that occurs in prairies of the southern and central Great Plains. This variety is smaller in overall size, but it has slightly larger fragrant flowers. Sometimes this variety is classified as a distinct species, Baptisia minor. Both the typical variety and the dwarf variety have blue flowers. Other Wild Indigos (Baptisia spp.) can be distinguished by their differently colored flowers, varying from white to yellow. There are also some differences in the characteristics of their leaves, stipules, inflorescences, and growth form, making them fairly easy to differentiate. Lupines (Lupinus spp.) can be distinguished from Wild Indigos by the greater number of leaflets (more than 3) in their palmately compound leaves. Another interesting difference is the lack of nectaries in the flowers of lupines.
Afterwards, fertile flowers are replaced by inflated glabrous seedpods that become up to 2½" long and ¾" across. These seedpods are short-oblongoid in shape with slender beaked tips. Immature seedpods are light green or grayish green, but they become black at maturity, when they split in two to release their seeds. Each healthy seedpod contains 25-50 seeds, although fewer seeds may occur because of predation or adverse weather conditions. Individual seeds are 2–2.5 mm. long, kidney-shaped (reniform), and light to dark brown. The root system consists of a branching taproot that often forms clonal offsets.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and a slightly acidic soil that is gravelly or rocky. Blue Wild Indigo readily adapts to fertile loamy soil in gardens, but in naturalistic settings it may have difficulty competing with other plants. Blue Wild Indigo is somewhat slow in becoming established, but it is not difficult to cultivate. Once this plant becomes established, it is very tolerant of drought and long-lived. Like many other legumes, its root system binds nitrogen to the soil via symbiotic bacteria.
Range & Habitat: Blue Wild Indigo may be native to NE Illinois in the Chicago area, or it could be a horticultural escape (see Distribution Map). In either case, this plant is extremely rare, and perhaps extirpated from the state as wild populations have not been observed in many years. The primary range of Blue Wild Indigo extends northward to the Ohio River, although isolated populations of this plant have been found further to the north in several states. A dwarf variety of this species also occurs further to the west. Habitats include rocky open woodlands, gravel prairies, and rocky banks of rivers. Occasional wildfires are probably beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant by reducing competition from woody vegetation
Faunal Associations: Queen bumblebees are the primary pollinators of the flowers, where they feed on nectar primarily. Other insects feed destructively on the leaves, developing seeds, and other parts of Blue Wild Indigo and other Wild Indigos (Baptisia spp.). These species include larvae of two moths, the Three-lined Grapholita (Grapholita tristrigana) and Black-rimmed Prominent (Dasylophia anguina), larvae of two skippers, the Wild Indigo Duskywing (Erynnis baptisiae) and Hoary Edge (Achalarus lyciades), and larvae of three butterflies, the Frosted Elfin (Callophrys irus), Marine Blue (Leptotes marina), and Orange Sulfur (Colias eurytheme); see Miller (1987), Covell (1984/2005), Bouseman et al. (2006), and Bouseman & Sternburg (2001). Other insect feeders include the Wild Indigo Weevil (Apion rostrum) and another weevil (Tychius sordidus). The larvae of these weevils feed on the developing seeds, while the adults feed on the leaves and flowers. The Ash-Gray Blister Beetle (Epicauta fabricii) feeds on the flowers and young seed pods, while two leaf beetles, Pachybrachis luridus and Pachybrachis trinotatus, feed on the leaves of Wild Indigos. The Lupine Bug (Megalotomus quinquespinosus) and other broad-headed bugs (Alydus spp.) feed on the seeds. The thrips, Neohydatothrips baptisiae, also uses these plants as sources of food. See Sauer (2005), Evans et al. (1989), Clark et al. (2004), Schaeffer (1980), and Stannard (1968) for more information. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid the consumption of Blue Wild Indigo and other Wild Indigos because their foliage is somewhat toxic.
Photographic Location: The above photographs were taken from the webmaster's wildflower garden in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is a favorite garden plant because of its showy flowers and attractive foliage. There is a dwarf variety of Blue Wild Indigo, Baptisia australis minor, that occurs in prairies of the southern and central Great Plains. This variety is smaller in overall size, but it has slightly larger fragrant flowers. Sometimes this variety is classified as a distinct species, Baptisia minor. Both the typical variety and the dwarf variety have blue flowers. Other Wild Indigos (Baptisia spp.) can be distinguished by their differently colored flowers, varying from white to yellow. There are also some differences in the characteristics of their leaves, stipules, inflorescences, and growth form, making them fairly easy to differentiate. Lupines (Lupinus spp.) can be distinguished from Wild Indigos by the greater number of leaflets (more than 3) in their palmately compound leaves. Another interesting difference is the lack of nectaries in the flowers of lupines.
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月16日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is about 3-6' tall and forms an erect, sparsely branched bush, although it is herbaceous. The stout central stem and upper side stems are smooth, light green or reddish purple, and glaucous. The compound leaves are trifoliate. They are usually greyish green or blue green, and hairless. Each leaflet is ovate or oblanceolate and pointed at both ends, with smooth margins, and about 2" long and ¾" across. The white flowers occur in erect spike-like racemes up to 2' long and are quite showy. They are typical pea flowers in overall structure, and about 1" long. There is no floral scent. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer and lasts about 1-1½ months. The flowers are replaced by large oblong seedpods, which are also rather showy. They are about 2" long and initially green, but later turn black. There is a stout deep taproot, and rhizomes that may form vegetative offsets. Once established, White Wild Indigo grows very quickly during the spring – it often towers above the surrounding plants by blooming time.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and moist to slightly dry soil. The soil can contain significant amounts of loam, clay, gravelly material, or sand. This plant is not fussy about growing conditions, and is easy to grow. However, it dislikes alkaline soil and may fail to bloom in shady conditions. Like other wild indigos, this plant may take several years to reach blooming size, but it is long-lived. The roots increase nitrogen levels in the soil.
Range & Habitat: The native White Wild Indigo is widely distributed and occurs in almost every county of Illinois, but it is usually uncommon (see Distribution Map). In a few areas that are scattered around the state, this plant is locally common. Some local populations may be escaped cultivated plants, or the result of restoration efforts. Habitats include moist to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, thickets, edges of marshes and sandy marshes, borders of lakes, limestone glades, and dry clay hills. White Wild Indigo is typically found in less disturbed habitats, partly because of limited seed dispersion. Occasional wildfires are readily tolerated.
Faunal Associations: Worker bumblebees pollinate the flowers. The caterpillars of some skippers and butterflies occasionally feed on the foliage, including Erynnis baptisiae (Wild Indigo Duskywing), Achelerus lyciades (Hoary Edge), Colias cesonia (Southern Dogface), and Colias eurythema (Orange Sulfur). The caterpillars of the moth Dasylophus anguina (Black-spotted Prominent) can also be found on the foliage. Another insect, Apion rostrum (Wild Indigo Weevil), feeds on this plant and other Baptisia spp. The adult weevils eat both the leaves and flowers, while their grubs stay in the pods and eat the seeds. Because White Wild Indigo is poisonous, it is not much bothered by mammalian herbivores. If cattle, horses, or other kinds of livestock consume sufficient quantities of this plant, they can be seriously poisoned.
Photographic Location: The photographs of the racemes and leaf close-up were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Large specimens of this wildflower are very striking while they are in bloom. White Wild Indigo is considerably taller than the related Baptisia bracteata (Cream Wild Indigo), which has spreading racemes of flowers that bloom earlier in the year. Other species of this genus in Illinois have yellow or blue-violet flowers. Another scientific name of White Wild Indigo is Baptisia leucantha.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and moist to slightly dry soil. The soil can contain significant amounts of loam, clay, gravelly material, or sand. This plant is not fussy about growing conditions, and is easy to grow. However, it dislikes alkaline soil and may fail to bloom in shady conditions. Like other wild indigos, this plant may take several years to reach blooming size, but it is long-lived. The roots increase nitrogen levels in the soil.
Range & Habitat: The native White Wild Indigo is widely distributed and occurs in almost every county of Illinois, but it is usually uncommon (see Distribution Map). In a few areas that are scattered around the state, this plant is locally common. Some local populations may be escaped cultivated plants, or the result of restoration efforts. Habitats include moist to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, thickets, edges of marshes and sandy marshes, borders of lakes, limestone glades, and dry clay hills. White Wild Indigo is typically found in less disturbed habitats, partly because of limited seed dispersion. Occasional wildfires are readily tolerated.
Faunal Associations: Worker bumblebees pollinate the flowers. The caterpillars of some skippers and butterflies occasionally feed on the foliage, including Erynnis baptisiae (Wild Indigo Duskywing), Achelerus lyciades (Hoary Edge), Colias cesonia (Southern Dogface), and Colias eurythema (Orange Sulfur). The caterpillars of the moth Dasylophus anguina (Black-spotted Prominent) can also be found on the foliage. Another insect, Apion rostrum (Wild Indigo Weevil), feeds on this plant and other Baptisia spp. The adult weevils eat both the leaves and flowers, while their grubs stay in the pods and eat the seeds. Because White Wild Indigo is poisonous, it is not much bothered by mammalian herbivores. If cattle, horses, or other kinds of livestock consume sufficient quantities of this plant, they can be seriously poisoned.
Photographic Location: The photographs of the racemes and leaf close-up were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Large specimens of this wildflower are very striking while they are in bloom. White Wild Indigo is considerably taller than the related Baptisia bracteata (Cream Wild Indigo), which has spreading racemes of flowers that bloom earlier in the year. Other species of this genus in Illinois have yellow or blue-violet flowers. Another scientific name of White Wild Indigo is Baptisia leucantha.
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月15日
Small Clementine oranges (Citrus reticulata "Clementine") don't have seeds. Their thin peel is simple to remove, making them a welcome treat as they ripen in winter. Like most citrus varieties, Clementine only grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 11, but you can enjoy them in any climate by growing the trees indoors. Look for trees grafted onto dwarf or semi-dwarf root stocks -- often labeled as patio or container citrus by nurseries. "Clementine" grafted to dwarf root stock grows slowly and rarely reaches heights above 5 or 6 feet.
Plant Clementine in a 20- to 24-inch-diameter container at least as deep as it is wide. Select a container with bottom drainage, and place it on a wheeled cart so it's simpler to move the heavy plant. Use a well-draining potting soil rich in organic matter, and plant the tree so that the graft union, or raised knot on the lower trunk, is just above the soil surface in the pot.
Set the tree near a window that receives full, all-day sunlight. "Clementine" leaves yellow and the tree fails to fruit without sufficient sun. Set the container outside during frost-free summers to increase light exposure, and bring it indoors for winter. Alternatively, hang a full-spectrum fluorescent grow light 2 feet above the tree and leave it on all day to ensure the indoor plant receives sufficient light.
Feel the soil in the pot daily, and water when the top 1 inch begins to feel dry. Pour water onto the soil with a watering can just until the excess begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. Empty the excess water from the drip tray beneath the pot after watering, because standing water can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot problems.
Fertilize indoor potted Clementines year-round with a fertilizer formulated for citrus, such as a 13-7-13 blend. These trees don't enter a true dormant stage, so they require ongoing fertilization. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups on top of the soil, a few inches from the trunk, for trees under 3 feet tall, or up to 3 cups for trees up to 5 feet tall. Water immediately after application so the fertilizer soaks into the soil. Reapply the fertilizer every two to three months.
Trim off any suckers that grow along the trunk below the graft union. Cut these off flush to the trunk, using a shears sterilized in a 10 percent bleach solution.
Cut off broken or dead branches any time, removing them back the to trunk or the nearest healthy wood. You can trim off small, unsightly branches from along the trunk to give the Clementine a more balanced appearance. Pinch back the growing tips of the branches by 1 inch when new growth appears in the spring to encourage full, balanced growth. Indoor citrus trees tolerate pruning at any time for shape or size control.
Monitor the tree for common indoor pests, including aphids and mites. Take the tree outside or set it in a bathtub, and then spray the leaves with a sharp spray of water to dislodge and wash away these pests. If you take your Clementine outdoors in the summer, fully rinse the foliage before bringing the tree back indoors for winter.
Plant Clementine in a 20- to 24-inch-diameter container at least as deep as it is wide. Select a container with bottom drainage, and place it on a wheeled cart so it's simpler to move the heavy plant. Use a well-draining potting soil rich in organic matter, and plant the tree so that the graft union, or raised knot on the lower trunk, is just above the soil surface in the pot.
Set the tree near a window that receives full, all-day sunlight. "Clementine" leaves yellow and the tree fails to fruit without sufficient sun. Set the container outside during frost-free summers to increase light exposure, and bring it indoors for winter. Alternatively, hang a full-spectrum fluorescent grow light 2 feet above the tree and leave it on all day to ensure the indoor plant receives sufficient light.
Feel the soil in the pot daily, and water when the top 1 inch begins to feel dry. Pour water onto the soil with a watering can just until the excess begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. Empty the excess water from the drip tray beneath the pot after watering, because standing water can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot problems.
Fertilize indoor potted Clementines year-round with a fertilizer formulated for citrus, such as a 13-7-13 blend. These trees don't enter a true dormant stage, so they require ongoing fertilization. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups on top of the soil, a few inches from the trunk, for trees under 3 feet tall, or up to 3 cups for trees up to 5 feet tall. Water immediately after application so the fertilizer soaks into the soil. Reapply the fertilizer every two to three months.
Trim off any suckers that grow along the trunk below the graft union. Cut these off flush to the trunk, using a shears sterilized in a 10 percent bleach solution.
Cut off broken or dead branches any time, removing them back the to trunk or the nearest healthy wood. You can trim off small, unsightly branches from along the trunk to give the Clementine a more balanced appearance. Pinch back the growing tips of the branches by 1 inch when new growth appears in the spring to encourage full, balanced growth. Indoor citrus trees tolerate pruning at any time for shape or size control.
Monitor the tree for common indoor pests, including aphids and mites. Take the tree outside or set it in a bathtub, and then spray the leaves with a sharp spray of water to dislodge and wash away these pests. If you take your Clementine outdoors in the summer, fully rinse the foliage before bringing the tree back indoors for winter.
0
2
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月15日
Commonly called a money tree for its use in the practice of feng shui as a bringer of good fortune, Pachira aquatica is a tropical tree commonly used as a houseplant and bonsai specimen. The plant features clusters of showy oval evergreen leaves and can bear edible nuts. Often seen with braided or twisted trunks, a money tree can have the misfortune to fall prey to insects or mistakes in care that can leave it sick.
Step 1
Examine your sick money tree for signs that it is being either over watered or under watered. Leaves on a money tree that are over watered become yellow and droopy, according to online bonsai nursery JoeBonsai.com. Too-dry trees exhibit leaves that are wrinkled and curled. Watering issues are the most likely culprit behind any houseplant problems, according to Purdue University Cooperative Extension, so start here first.
Step 2
Repot your money tree in equal parts potting soil, peat and perlite in a pot with a drainage hole to avoid having its roots sit in water if your plant shows signs of being consistently wet. Allow soil in the new pot to dry completely between waterings.
Step 3
Move your sick money tree plant to a location that receives bright sunlight in either the morning or late afternoon and mid-afternoon shade. Spots and blisters on leaves are signs light is too intense for the plant. Yellowing in older leaves is a sign of insufficient light, according to Ohio State University Extension. A money tree can be damaged when it is left out in the cold -- below 50 degrees Fahrenheit -- or in a spot that is too warm -- above 86 F. The preferred temperature range for a money tree is from 77 to 86 F, according to Hrovatin Exotica, an online exotic plant resource.
Step 4
Add an all-purpose fertilizer once a month to a money tree with all-over yellowed leaves. The exception is a bonsai-sized money tree, which only needs added nutrients once in the spring and once in the fall. Leaves wilting and dropping from the money tree can be a sign of over fertilizing.
Step 5
Examine stems and leaves for specks, webbing, sticky residue, white bumps and branch dieback -- all signs of either spider mite, mealy bug or scale infestation, to which money plants are particularly susceptible.
Step 6
Set the plant in the shower and wash residue and webbing off the leaves and stems with a gentle spray of lukewarm water. Spray both sides of the leaves with insecticidal soap to eliminate mites and mealy bugs.
Step 7
Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab and dab it on the small bumps -- scale insects -- on the stems of your money tree if it is lightly infested. Use a spray with the active ingredient pyrethrin, a plant-derived insecticide, on plants with larger infestations. The spray works on mealy bugs as well.
Step 1
Examine your sick money tree for signs that it is being either over watered or under watered. Leaves on a money tree that are over watered become yellow and droopy, according to online bonsai nursery JoeBonsai.com. Too-dry trees exhibit leaves that are wrinkled and curled. Watering issues are the most likely culprit behind any houseplant problems, according to Purdue University Cooperative Extension, so start here first.
Step 2
Repot your money tree in equal parts potting soil, peat and perlite in a pot with a drainage hole to avoid having its roots sit in water if your plant shows signs of being consistently wet. Allow soil in the new pot to dry completely between waterings.
Step 3
Move your sick money tree plant to a location that receives bright sunlight in either the morning or late afternoon and mid-afternoon shade. Spots and blisters on leaves are signs light is too intense for the plant. Yellowing in older leaves is a sign of insufficient light, according to Ohio State University Extension. A money tree can be damaged when it is left out in the cold -- below 50 degrees Fahrenheit -- or in a spot that is too warm -- above 86 F. The preferred temperature range for a money tree is from 77 to 86 F, according to Hrovatin Exotica, an online exotic plant resource.
Step 4
Add an all-purpose fertilizer once a month to a money tree with all-over yellowed leaves. The exception is a bonsai-sized money tree, which only needs added nutrients once in the spring and once in the fall. Leaves wilting and dropping from the money tree can be a sign of over fertilizing.
Step 5
Examine stems and leaves for specks, webbing, sticky residue, white bumps and branch dieback -- all signs of either spider mite, mealy bug or scale infestation, to which money plants are particularly susceptible.
Step 6
Set the plant in the shower and wash residue and webbing off the leaves and stems with a gentle spray of lukewarm water. Spray both sides of the leaves with insecticidal soap to eliminate mites and mealy bugs.
Step 7
Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab and dab it on the small bumps -- scale insects -- on the stems of your money tree if it is lightly infested. Use a spray with the active ingredient pyrethrin, a plant-derived insecticide, on plants with larger infestations. The spray works on mealy bugs as well.
2
1
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月14日
Description: This perennial plant is 1½–3½' tall, branching occasionally. The ridged stems are pubescent. The alternate compound leaves are odd pinnate, and 5-9" long, with about 21-31 leaflets. The oblong leaflets are about 1½" long and 3/8" across, with smooth edges. From the upper axils of the compound leaves there occasionally develops a whorled raceme of flowers from a stout stalk. A raceme (including the stalk) is usually about 1-2" longer than the compound leaves subtending it, or about 7-11" long. A typical raceme is crowded with about 75 creamy flowers, which may have yellow or green tints. Each flower is about ¾" long and tubular-shaped, although jutting slightly upward toward the outer tip. It consists of five petals, including a curved upper hood, a lower keel, and close-fitting side petals. The blooming period occurs during the summer and lasts about 2-3 months. There is no noticeable floral scent. The flowers are replaced by stout oval pods with long pointed tips, which are held nearly erect on the stalk. The root system consists of a taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun and mesic conditions. Canada Milkvetch grows well on most kinds of soil, and probably fixes some nitrogen. It's a robust plant, although the foliage sometimes turns prematurely yellow. This plant has a tendency to sprawl, unless it receives support from adjacent vegetation.
Range & Habitat: The native Canada Milkvetch occurs occasionally in the northern half of Illinois, but it is rather uncommon in most areas of southern Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include moist to slightly dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, typical and sandy savannas, thickets and woodland borders, moist meadows near rivers, and abandoned fields.
Faunal Associations: Primarily bumblebees visit the flowers for nectar. Other long-tongued bee visitors include honeybees and Megachile spp. (Large Leaf-Cutting Bees). Insects with shorter mouthparts have trouble reaching the nectar, nor is the pollen easy to access. Unlike many milkvetches of the Western states, the foliage of Canada Milkvetch is non-toxic and palatable to mammalian herbivores, including deer, groundhogs, rabbits, and livestock. This plant may be difficult to establish where these animals occur in abundance. The seeds may be eaten occasionally by the Wild Turkey and other upland gamebirds, as well as small rodents, such as the Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrel; however, such observations are confined largely to the Western states, where Astragalus spp. are more abundant.
Photographic Location: The wildflower garden of the webmaster in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: There are very few Astragalus spp. that occur in Illinois. Canada Milkvetch has a distinctive appearance on account of its size (up to 3½' tall) and abundant creamy flowers (about 75 per raceme). Some pale-flowered vetches are superficially similar in appearance, such as Vicia carolina (Carolina Vetch). However, vetches are vine-like plants with tendrils, while Canada Milkvetch is a semi-erect plant without tendrils (although it may clamber over adjacent vegetation, nonetheless). Another difference is the inflorescence: the raceme of Canada Milkvetch is whorled with about 75 flowers, while Vicia spp. have one- or two-sided racemes with fewer flowers.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun and mesic conditions. Canada Milkvetch grows well on most kinds of soil, and probably fixes some nitrogen. It's a robust plant, although the foliage sometimes turns prematurely yellow. This plant has a tendency to sprawl, unless it receives support from adjacent vegetation.
Range & Habitat: The native Canada Milkvetch occurs occasionally in the northern half of Illinois, but it is rather uncommon in most areas of southern Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include moist to slightly dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, typical and sandy savannas, thickets and woodland borders, moist meadows near rivers, and abandoned fields.
Faunal Associations: Primarily bumblebees visit the flowers for nectar. Other long-tongued bee visitors include honeybees and Megachile spp. (Large Leaf-Cutting Bees). Insects with shorter mouthparts have trouble reaching the nectar, nor is the pollen easy to access. Unlike many milkvetches of the Western states, the foliage of Canada Milkvetch is non-toxic and palatable to mammalian herbivores, including deer, groundhogs, rabbits, and livestock. This plant may be difficult to establish where these animals occur in abundance. The seeds may be eaten occasionally by the Wild Turkey and other upland gamebirds, as well as small rodents, such as the Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrel; however, such observations are confined largely to the Western states, where Astragalus spp. are more abundant.
Photographic Location: The wildflower garden of the webmaster in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: There are very few Astragalus spp. that occur in Illinois. Canada Milkvetch has a distinctive appearance on account of its size (up to 3½' tall) and abundant creamy flowers (about 75 per raceme). Some pale-flowered vetches are superficially similar in appearance, such as Vicia carolina (Carolina Vetch). However, vetches are vine-like plants with tendrils, while Canada Milkvetch is a semi-erect plant without tendrils (although it may clamber over adjacent vegetation, nonetheless). Another difference is the inflorescence: the raceme of Canada Milkvetch is whorled with about 75 flowers, while Vicia spp. have one- or two-sided racemes with fewer flowers.
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月14日
Description: This perennial plant is 1½–2' tall and unbranched. The central stem is light green to light purplish green and more or less pubescent. Several pairs of opposite leaves occur along the entire length of the stem; they are more or less ascending. The leaves are often folded upward along their margins, where they are often wavy (up and down). Individual leaves are up to 5" long and 1½" across; they are linear-lanceolate to lanceolate in shape and smooth (entire) along their margins. The upper leaf surface is medium green, while the lower leaf surface is light green; both surfaces are short-pubescent to nearly glabrous. The petioles are about 3 mm. (1/8") long, light green to light reddish green, and pubescent. The primary veins of the leaves are pinnate, while their secondary veins form a reticulated network that is visible on their undersides. From the axils of middle to upper leaves, there are nodding umbels of flowers spanning 1–1¾" across (only one umbel per pair of leaves). These umbels have short pubescent peduncles up to 6 mm. (¼") long. A typical plant will have 1-4 umbels; each umbel has 15-45 flowers on hairy pedicels about ½" long. Individual umbels are broadly obconic to half-globoid in shape and dome-shaped in front, rather than flat-headed.
Each flower is about 8 mm. long and 3 mm. across, consisting of 5 erect hoods, 5 deflexed petals, 5 deflexed sepals, and the reproductive organs. The flowers are light green to green, becoming yellowish green or purplish green as they age. Individual hoods are lanceolate-oblong in shape; they are without horns. The hoods surround a central reproductive column on all sides; this column contains masses of winged pollinia (packets of pollen). The deflexed petals are lanceolate in shape; when the flower is fully open, they hide the shorter sepals. The sepals are linear-lanceolate in shape, light green to purplish green, and hairy. The blooming period occurs during early summer, lasting about 3 weeks. Afterwards, the flowers that have been cross-pollinated successfully (if any) are replaced by follicles (seedpods that open along one side). The follicles are up to 3½–5" long and ½–¾" across; they are narrowly lanceoloid and usually short-pubescent. During the autumn, these follicles split open to release their seeds. The seeds are dark brown, flattened-ovoid in shape, and winged along their margins. At their apices, the seeds have tufts of white hair; they are distributed by the wind. The root system consists of a central taproot. This plant usually occurs as scattered individuals, rarely forming colonies.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and dry-mesic to dry conditions. This plant will also tolerate partial sun and mesic conditions. If anything, poor soil is preferred, containing gravelly or sandy material, as this reduces competition from taller plants. However, rich loam is tolerated if it is well-drained. After the blooming period and during the development of seedpods, this plant gradually deteriorates.
Range & Habitat: The native Short Green Milkweed is widely distributed in Illinois, but it is absent from some eastern and central counties (see Distribution Map). In areas where it occurs, this plant is rare to occasional. Habitats include openings in upland forests that are rocky or sandy; upland black soil prairies, sand prairies, gravel prairies, and hill prairies; barrens, limestone glades, and sand dunes; and abandoned fields. Short Green Milkweed usually occurs in high quality habitats, rather than degraded areas. Occasional wildfires are probably beneficial by reducing competition from woody vegetation.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts primarily bumblebees, which are the primary pollinators (Robertson, 1929). Ants are also attracted to the nectar, but they are not effective at cross-pollination. Some insects feed destructively on Short Green Milkweed and other milkweeds (Asclepias spp.). For example, larvae of a long-horned beetle, Tetraopes texanus (Texas Milkweed Beetle), bore through the stems of Short Green Milkweed, while caterpillars of a butterfly, Danaus plexippus (Monarch), occasionally feed on the leaves. Other insects that feed on milkweeds are listed in the Insect Table. Mammalian herbivores avoid consumption of the foliage because its milky latex contains toxic cardiac glycosides and it is bitter-tasting. Because caterpillars of the Monarch butterfly are able to sequester these toxic chemicals, the adults of this insect are usually avoided by birds.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the Prospect Cemetery Prairie in Ford County, Illinois, and the Coneflower Hill Prairie in Shelby County, Illinois.
Comments: This non-showy plant is unlikely to receive favor from the mass market in horticulture, but it is nonetheless quite interesting to examine. This milkweed species is rather variable across different localities; there is a variety with narrow leaves that occurs in sandy areas near Lake Michigan. Short Green Milkweed (Asclepias viridiflora) can be distinguished from many species of milkweeds by its nodding umbels of greenish flowers. The rare Mead's Milkweed (Asclepias meadii) has this characteristic, but its flowers are more wide (about 6 mm. across) and the hoods of its flowers have horns. Another milkweed species, Tall Green Milkweed (Asclepias hirtella), produces nodding umbels of greenish flowers, but its umbels are more fully globoid in shape, and its leaves are usually more linear and narrow than those of Short Green Milkweed.
Each flower is about 8 mm. long and 3 mm. across, consisting of 5 erect hoods, 5 deflexed petals, 5 deflexed sepals, and the reproductive organs. The flowers are light green to green, becoming yellowish green or purplish green as they age. Individual hoods are lanceolate-oblong in shape; they are without horns. The hoods surround a central reproductive column on all sides; this column contains masses of winged pollinia (packets of pollen). The deflexed petals are lanceolate in shape; when the flower is fully open, they hide the shorter sepals. The sepals are linear-lanceolate in shape, light green to purplish green, and hairy. The blooming period occurs during early summer, lasting about 3 weeks. Afterwards, the flowers that have been cross-pollinated successfully (if any) are replaced by follicles (seedpods that open along one side). The follicles are up to 3½–5" long and ½–¾" across; they are narrowly lanceoloid and usually short-pubescent. During the autumn, these follicles split open to release their seeds. The seeds are dark brown, flattened-ovoid in shape, and winged along their margins. At their apices, the seeds have tufts of white hair; they are distributed by the wind. The root system consists of a central taproot. This plant usually occurs as scattered individuals, rarely forming colonies.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and dry-mesic to dry conditions. This plant will also tolerate partial sun and mesic conditions. If anything, poor soil is preferred, containing gravelly or sandy material, as this reduces competition from taller plants. However, rich loam is tolerated if it is well-drained. After the blooming period and during the development of seedpods, this plant gradually deteriorates.
Range & Habitat: The native Short Green Milkweed is widely distributed in Illinois, but it is absent from some eastern and central counties (see Distribution Map). In areas where it occurs, this plant is rare to occasional. Habitats include openings in upland forests that are rocky or sandy; upland black soil prairies, sand prairies, gravel prairies, and hill prairies; barrens, limestone glades, and sand dunes; and abandoned fields. Short Green Milkweed usually occurs in high quality habitats, rather than degraded areas. Occasional wildfires are probably beneficial by reducing competition from woody vegetation.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts primarily bumblebees, which are the primary pollinators (Robertson, 1929). Ants are also attracted to the nectar, but they are not effective at cross-pollination. Some insects feed destructively on Short Green Milkweed and other milkweeds (Asclepias spp.). For example, larvae of a long-horned beetle, Tetraopes texanus (Texas Milkweed Beetle), bore through the stems of Short Green Milkweed, while caterpillars of a butterfly, Danaus plexippus (Monarch), occasionally feed on the leaves. Other insects that feed on milkweeds are listed in the Insect Table. Mammalian herbivores avoid consumption of the foliage because its milky latex contains toxic cardiac glycosides and it is bitter-tasting. Because caterpillars of the Monarch butterfly are able to sequester these toxic chemicals, the adults of this insect are usually avoided by birds.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the Prospect Cemetery Prairie in Ford County, Illinois, and the Coneflower Hill Prairie in Shelby County, Illinois.
Comments: This non-showy plant is unlikely to receive favor from the mass market in horticulture, but it is nonetheless quite interesting to examine. This milkweed species is rather variable across different localities; there is a variety with narrow leaves that occurs in sandy areas near Lake Michigan. Short Green Milkweed (Asclepias viridiflora) can be distinguished from many species of milkweeds by its nodding umbels of greenish flowers. The rare Mead's Milkweed (Asclepias meadii) has this characteristic, but its flowers are more wide (about 6 mm. across) and the hoods of its flowers have horns. Another milkweed species, Tall Green Milkweed (Asclepias hirtella), produces nodding umbels of greenish flowers, but its umbels are more fully globoid in shape, and its leaves are usually more linear and narrow than those of Short Green Milkweed.
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月14日
Description: This perennial herbaceous plant is ½–2' tall and more or less erect; it is either unbranched or sparingly branched along the upper half of its central stem. The central stem is yellowish green or medium green and terete; it has vertical lines of short pubescence. Whorls of 4-6 leaves occur along the nodes of the central stem; because the internodes of this stem are fairly short, these leaves are produced in abundance. Relative to the orientation of the central stem, the leaves are usually ascending, although sometimes they are widely spreading or drooping. The leaves are 2-3" long, 2-3 mm. across, and linear in shape; their margins are entire (toothless) and strongly revolute (rolled downward). Sometimes whorls of smaller secondary leaves are produced from short lateral stems that develop from the axils of leaves along the central stem. The upper leaf surfaces are yellowish green or medium green and glabrous to sparsely short-pubescent; they are narrowly grooved along the middle where the midribs occur. The lower leaf surfaces are whitish green and short-pubescent; they are partially obscured by the rolled leaf margins. The leaves are sessile or they have very short petioles (less than 2 mm. long). From the axils of middle to upper leaves, umbels of flowers are produced on short peduncles (flowering stalks); there can be 1-4 umbels of flowers at each node. Individual umbels span ¾–1½" across, consisting of 7-20 pedicellate flowers.
Each flower is about 5-6 mm. across and 8-10 mm. long, consisting of 5 sepals, 5 petals, 5 hoods with horns, and a central reproductive column. The sepals are light green, short-pubescent, and lanceolate in shape; sometimes they are tinted purple toward their tips. These sepals are visible at the bases of flower buds, but they are hidden by the petals when the flowers bloom. The petals are white or greenish white, sometimes with pale purplish tints toward their tips; they are oblong-elliptic in shape and strongly declined (bent downward), curving slightly upward toward their tips. The erect white hoods are open-tubular in shape and somewhat oblique, their lower sides facing the center of the flower. The slender white horns are sickle-shaped and inwardly curved; there is one exserted horn per hood. The short reproductive column is white at its apex and light green below. The slender pedicels of the flowers are light green to nearly white, sometimes becoming purplish at their bases; they are 8-12 mm. long, terete, and short-pubescent. The peduncles are ½–1½" long, light to medium green, glabrous to short-pubescent, terete, and ascending. The blooming period occurs from early to late summer, lasting about 1-2 months. There is little or no floral scent. Afterwards, successfully cross-pollinated flowers are replaced by ascending to erect follicles (seedpods that open along one side). These follicles are 3-4" long and about ½" across; they are narrowly lanceoloid in shape and fairly smooth (lacking warts or soft prickles). At maturity during autumn or winter, these follicles split open to release their seeds to the wind. Mature seeds are about 4-5 mm. long, ovate-flattened in shape, brown, and narrowly winged along their margins; their apices have large tufts of white hair. The root system is fleshy-fibrous and long-rhizomatous. Colonies of clonal plants are often produced from the rhizomes.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and soil containing loam, clay-loam, sand, or gravel. Infertile soil is actually preferred because it reduces competition from taller plants. During hot dry weather, the lower leaves may turn yellow and fall off, or the foliage of the entire plant may become yellowish green. In open sunny areas with exposed soil, this plant can spread aggressively.
Range & Habitat: The native Whorled Milkweed occurs occasionally throughout most of Illinois, except for a few southern counties (see Distribution Map), where it is rare or absent. Habitats include upland prairies, sand prairies, gravel prairies, hill prairies, openings in rocky upland forests, sandy savannas, limestone glades, rocky bluffs along major rivers, bluegrass meadows, pastures and abandoned fields, grassy slopes along highways, and waste areas. Whorled Milkweed is a pioneer species that prefers open disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts many kinds of insects, including honeybees, bumblebees, Halictid bees (Halictus spp., Lasioglossum spp.), Halictid cuckoo bees (Sphecodes spp.), sand-loving wasps (Tachytes spp.), weevil wasps (Cerceris spp.), Sphecid wasps (Sphex spp., Prionyx spp.), Five-banded Tiphiid Wasp (Myzinum quinquecinctum), Northern Paper Wasp (Polites fuscatus), spider wasps (Anoplius spp.), Eumenine wasps (Euodynerus spp., etc.), Syrphid flies, thick-headed flies (Physocephala spp., etc.), Tachinid flies, flesh flies (Sarcophagidae), Muscid flies, Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) and other butterflies, Peck's Skipper (Polites peckius) and other skippers, Squash Vine Borer Moth (Melittia cucurbitae) and other moths, and Pennsylvania Soldier Beetle (Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus); sources of information include Robertson (1929) and personal observations. Among these floral visitors, bees and wasps are usually more effective at cross-pollination. Some insects feed destructively on the foliage, flowers, seedpods, and other parts of Whorled Milkweed. These species include the Small Milkweed Bug (Lygaeus kalmii), Milkweed Leaf Beetle (Labidomera clivicollis), Yellow Milkweed Aphid (Aphis nerii), and a moth, the Delicate Cycnia (Cycnia tenera). Although this insect does not occur in Illinois, in the southwestern United States, the Horsetail Milkweed Longhorn (Tetraopes discoideus) feeds on Whorled Milkweed and closely related milkweed species (Asclepias spp.); sources of information include Betz et al. (1997), Yanega (1996), and personal observations. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid the foliage of Whorled Milkweed as a food source because it is one of the more toxic milkweed species.
Photographic Location: Photographs were taken at the webmaster's wildflower garden in Urbana, Illinois, and a bluegrass meadow near Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: This small milkweed blooms later in the year than most milkweed species (Asclepias spp.), and its small umbels of flowers attract many kinds of insects, including butterflies. Whorled Milkweed (Asclepias verticillata) superficially resembles the common Field Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) because of its whorled linear leaves. It can be distinguished from this latter species by the milky latex of its foliage and the later development of its flowers and seedpods. Field Horsetail is a spore-bearing plant that lacks true flowers. Whorled Milkweed is readily distinguished from other milkweed species in Illinois by its more narrow leaves (only 2-3 mm. across). Narrow-leaved Milkweed (Asclepias stenophylla) is an exception, because its linear leaves are almost as narrow. However, this latter species has leaves that are alternate to nearly opposite along its stems, rather than whorled. So far, it has been found in only a few counties of western Illinois.
Each flower is about 5-6 mm. across and 8-10 mm. long, consisting of 5 sepals, 5 petals, 5 hoods with horns, and a central reproductive column. The sepals are light green, short-pubescent, and lanceolate in shape; sometimes they are tinted purple toward their tips. These sepals are visible at the bases of flower buds, but they are hidden by the petals when the flowers bloom. The petals are white or greenish white, sometimes with pale purplish tints toward their tips; they are oblong-elliptic in shape and strongly declined (bent downward), curving slightly upward toward their tips. The erect white hoods are open-tubular in shape and somewhat oblique, their lower sides facing the center of the flower. The slender white horns are sickle-shaped and inwardly curved; there is one exserted horn per hood. The short reproductive column is white at its apex and light green below. The slender pedicels of the flowers are light green to nearly white, sometimes becoming purplish at their bases; they are 8-12 mm. long, terete, and short-pubescent. The peduncles are ½–1½" long, light to medium green, glabrous to short-pubescent, terete, and ascending. The blooming period occurs from early to late summer, lasting about 1-2 months. There is little or no floral scent. Afterwards, successfully cross-pollinated flowers are replaced by ascending to erect follicles (seedpods that open along one side). These follicles are 3-4" long and about ½" across; they are narrowly lanceoloid in shape and fairly smooth (lacking warts or soft prickles). At maturity during autumn or winter, these follicles split open to release their seeds to the wind. Mature seeds are about 4-5 mm. long, ovate-flattened in shape, brown, and narrowly winged along their margins; their apices have large tufts of white hair. The root system is fleshy-fibrous and long-rhizomatous. Colonies of clonal plants are often produced from the rhizomes.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and soil containing loam, clay-loam, sand, or gravel. Infertile soil is actually preferred because it reduces competition from taller plants. During hot dry weather, the lower leaves may turn yellow and fall off, or the foliage of the entire plant may become yellowish green. In open sunny areas with exposed soil, this plant can spread aggressively.
Range & Habitat: The native Whorled Milkweed occurs occasionally throughout most of Illinois, except for a few southern counties (see Distribution Map), where it is rare or absent. Habitats include upland prairies, sand prairies, gravel prairies, hill prairies, openings in rocky upland forests, sandy savannas, limestone glades, rocky bluffs along major rivers, bluegrass meadows, pastures and abandoned fields, grassy slopes along highways, and waste areas. Whorled Milkweed is a pioneer species that prefers open disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts many kinds of insects, including honeybees, bumblebees, Halictid bees (Halictus spp., Lasioglossum spp.), Halictid cuckoo bees (Sphecodes spp.), sand-loving wasps (Tachytes spp.), weevil wasps (Cerceris spp.), Sphecid wasps (Sphex spp., Prionyx spp.), Five-banded Tiphiid Wasp (Myzinum quinquecinctum), Northern Paper Wasp (Polites fuscatus), spider wasps (Anoplius spp.), Eumenine wasps (Euodynerus spp., etc.), Syrphid flies, thick-headed flies (Physocephala spp., etc.), Tachinid flies, flesh flies (Sarcophagidae), Muscid flies, Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) and other butterflies, Peck's Skipper (Polites peckius) and other skippers, Squash Vine Borer Moth (Melittia cucurbitae) and other moths, and Pennsylvania Soldier Beetle (Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus); sources of information include Robertson (1929) and personal observations. Among these floral visitors, bees and wasps are usually more effective at cross-pollination. Some insects feed destructively on the foliage, flowers, seedpods, and other parts of Whorled Milkweed. These species include the Small Milkweed Bug (Lygaeus kalmii), Milkweed Leaf Beetle (Labidomera clivicollis), Yellow Milkweed Aphid (Aphis nerii), and a moth, the Delicate Cycnia (Cycnia tenera). Although this insect does not occur in Illinois, in the southwestern United States, the Horsetail Milkweed Longhorn (Tetraopes discoideus) feeds on Whorled Milkweed and closely related milkweed species (Asclepias spp.); sources of information include Betz et al. (1997), Yanega (1996), and personal observations. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid the foliage of Whorled Milkweed as a food source because it is one of the more toxic milkweed species.
Photographic Location: Photographs were taken at the webmaster's wildflower garden in Urbana, Illinois, and a bluegrass meadow near Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: This small milkweed blooms later in the year than most milkweed species (Asclepias spp.), and its small umbels of flowers attract many kinds of insects, including butterflies. Whorled Milkweed (Asclepias verticillata) superficially resembles the common Field Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) because of its whorled linear leaves. It can be distinguished from this latter species by the milky latex of its foliage and the later development of its flowers and seedpods. Field Horsetail is a spore-bearing plant that lacks true flowers. Whorled Milkweed is readily distinguished from other milkweed species in Illinois by its more narrow leaves (only 2-3 mm. across). Narrow-leaved Milkweed (Asclepias stenophylla) is an exception, because its linear leaves are almost as narrow. However, this latter species has leaves that are alternate to nearly opposite along its stems, rather than whorled. So far, it has been found in only a few counties of western Illinois.
0
0
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月14日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is 1-2½' tall. Young plants develop from a single central stem, while older plants tiller at the base, sending up multiple erect to ascending stems from a large taproot. These stems are unbranched below, becoming branched above where the flowers occur. The stems are light green to dull reddish purple, terete, and more or less covered with spreading hairs. Densely distributed along these stems, are alternate leaves that differ little in size. These leaves are 2½–3½" long and ½–¾" across; they are linear-oblong to lanceolate-oblong in shape, while their margins are entire (toothless). The tips of the leaves are acute, while their bases are slightly cordate, truncate, or rounded. The leaves are sessile, or they have short petioles up to 3 mm. long. The upper leaf surface is medium to dark green and glabrous to sparsely short-pubescent, while the lower leaf surface is light to light-medium green and mostly short-pubescent. Along the lower sides of the major veins, this pubescence is somewhat longer. The foliage of this plant lacks a milky latex. Usually several umbels of flowers develop from the upper stems and the axils of upper leaves. These umbels span 1–2½" across, consisting of 8-25 flowers each; they are slightly dome-shaped and often horizontally adjacent to each other.
Each flower consists of 5 sepals, 5 petals, 5 hoods with horns, and a central reproductive column that is white to light green and short. The sepals are light green, hairy, and lanceolate in shape; they are largely hidden when the flowers open. The petals are more or less orange, lanceolate in shape, and declined (bent downward). The hoods are more or less orange, erect, and curved-ovate, forming open oblique tubes. The horns are more or less orange, sickle-shaped, incurved, and exserted from the hoods (one horn per hood). Usually the petals, hoods, and horns are orange, but sometimes they are reddish orange or yellowish orange. The pedicels are ¾–1½" long, light green or light reddish purple, terete, and more or less covered with spreading hairs. At the base of these pedicels, there are several spreading bracts up to 8 mm. long; they are green, linear-lanceolate in shape, and pubescent. The peduncles of the umbels are ½–2½" long, light green to dull reddish purple, terete, and hairy. The flowers bloom during early to mid-summer and sometimes a second time during late summer to early autumn. The flowers are relatively long-lasting, but they have no noticeable fragrance. Flowers that have been successfully cross-pollinated are replaced by follicles (seedpods that open along one side). These follicles are 4-6" long and ½–¾" across at maturity; they are initially light green, but later turn brown. The follicle surface is smooth and short-pubescent. These follicles eventually split open to release their seeds to the wind. Mature seeds are about 4 mm. long, flattened-oval in shape, brown, and narrowly winged along their margins; the apices of these seeds have large tufts of white hair. The root system consists of a woody taproot that is thick and knobby. This taproot can extend several feet below the ground surface.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and an acidic soil that is sandy or rocky. However, this plant will adapt to other kinds of soil, including those that contain loam or clay, if they are well-drained. Although this plant develops somewhat slowly, it is easy to cultivate in open sunny areas once it becomes established. Tolerance to hot dry weather is excellent. If the taproot of a young plant is planted too close to the soil surface, it may become damaged by frost due to heaving of the soil.
Range & Habitat: The native Butterfly Milkweed is occasional to locally common in Illinois, except for the western section of the state, where it is less common (see Distribution Map). Habitats include upland sand prairies, hill prairies, cemetery prairies, sandy savannas, open rocky woodlands, shale and sandstone glades (in southern Illinois), abandoned sandy fields, roadside embankments, and areas along railroads. Because of the showy orange flowers, Butterfly Milkweed is often cultivated in gardens. This milkweed is found in both disturbed areas and high quality natural areas. Occasional wildfires are probably beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant as this reduces competition from woody vegetation and taller herbaceous vegetation.
Faunal Associations: The flower nectar attracts honeybees, digger bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees (including green metallic bees), thread-waisted wasps (Ammophila spp.) and other Sphecid wasps, and butterflies, including Fritillaries (Speyeria spp.), Swallowtails (Papilio spp.), and the Monarch (Danaus plexippus); see Robertson (1929). The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is also attracted to the flowers. Some insects feed destructively on the leaves, flowers and buds, seedpods, and other parts of Butterfly Milkweed. These insects include larvae of the Blackened Milkweed Beetle (Tetraopes melanurus), the Small Milkweed Bug (Lygaeus kalmii), the Large Milkweed Bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus), larvae of a butterfly, the Monarch (Danaus plexippus), and larvae of a moth, the Unexpected Cycnia (Cycnia inopinatus). Butterfly Milkweed is the preferred host plant of the preceding moth (see Yanega, 1996; Betz et al., 1997; Wagner, 2005). A polyphagous insect, the Curve-tailed Bush Katydid (Scudderia curvicauda), was observed to feed on the leaves of this milkweed (Gangwere, 1961); it may also feed on the flowers. While the foliage of Butterfly Milkweed lacks the toxic milky latex that is typical of other milkweeds (Asclepias spp.), mammalian herbivores nonetheless appear to avoid it.
Photographic Location: The above photographs were taken at the webmaster's wildflower garden, Urbana, Illinois, and a flower garden at the Anita Purvis Nature Center of the same city.
Comments: This is perhaps the showiest of the milkweeds (Asclepias spp.) because of the long-lasting and colorful flowers. Because Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is the only milkweed in Illinois that has orange flowers, it is easy to identify. This species is also unusual for a milkweed because its leaves are alternate and its foliage lacks a milky latex. Because of the absence of milky latex, it is often referred to as Butterfly Weed, rather than Butterfly Milkweed. The thick and bitter-tasting roots were used for various medicinal purposes in the past, including the treatment of pleurisy. As a result, another common name for this species is Pleurisy Root.
Each flower consists of 5 sepals, 5 petals, 5 hoods with horns, and a central reproductive column that is white to light green and short. The sepals are light green, hairy, and lanceolate in shape; they are largely hidden when the flowers open. The petals are more or less orange, lanceolate in shape, and declined (bent downward). The hoods are more or less orange, erect, and curved-ovate, forming open oblique tubes. The horns are more or less orange, sickle-shaped, incurved, and exserted from the hoods (one horn per hood). Usually the petals, hoods, and horns are orange, but sometimes they are reddish orange or yellowish orange. The pedicels are ¾–1½" long, light green or light reddish purple, terete, and more or less covered with spreading hairs. At the base of these pedicels, there are several spreading bracts up to 8 mm. long; they are green, linear-lanceolate in shape, and pubescent. The peduncles of the umbels are ½–2½" long, light green to dull reddish purple, terete, and hairy. The flowers bloom during early to mid-summer and sometimes a second time during late summer to early autumn. The flowers are relatively long-lasting, but they have no noticeable fragrance. Flowers that have been successfully cross-pollinated are replaced by follicles (seedpods that open along one side). These follicles are 4-6" long and ½–¾" across at maturity; they are initially light green, but later turn brown. The follicle surface is smooth and short-pubescent. These follicles eventually split open to release their seeds to the wind. Mature seeds are about 4 mm. long, flattened-oval in shape, brown, and narrowly winged along their margins; the apices of these seeds have large tufts of white hair. The root system consists of a woody taproot that is thick and knobby. This taproot can extend several feet below the ground surface.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and an acidic soil that is sandy or rocky. However, this plant will adapt to other kinds of soil, including those that contain loam or clay, if they are well-drained. Although this plant develops somewhat slowly, it is easy to cultivate in open sunny areas once it becomes established. Tolerance to hot dry weather is excellent. If the taproot of a young plant is planted too close to the soil surface, it may become damaged by frost due to heaving of the soil.
Range & Habitat: The native Butterfly Milkweed is occasional to locally common in Illinois, except for the western section of the state, where it is less common (see Distribution Map). Habitats include upland sand prairies, hill prairies, cemetery prairies, sandy savannas, open rocky woodlands, shale and sandstone glades (in southern Illinois), abandoned sandy fields, roadside embankments, and areas along railroads. Because of the showy orange flowers, Butterfly Milkweed is often cultivated in gardens. This milkweed is found in both disturbed areas and high quality natural areas. Occasional wildfires are probably beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant as this reduces competition from woody vegetation and taller herbaceous vegetation.
Faunal Associations: The flower nectar attracts honeybees, digger bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees (including green metallic bees), thread-waisted wasps (Ammophila spp.) and other Sphecid wasps, and butterflies, including Fritillaries (Speyeria spp.), Swallowtails (Papilio spp.), and the Monarch (Danaus plexippus); see Robertson (1929). The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is also attracted to the flowers. Some insects feed destructively on the leaves, flowers and buds, seedpods, and other parts of Butterfly Milkweed. These insects include larvae of the Blackened Milkweed Beetle (Tetraopes melanurus), the Small Milkweed Bug (Lygaeus kalmii), the Large Milkweed Bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus), larvae of a butterfly, the Monarch (Danaus plexippus), and larvae of a moth, the Unexpected Cycnia (Cycnia inopinatus). Butterfly Milkweed is the preferred host plant of the preceding moth (see Yanega, 1996; Betz et al., 1997; Wagner, 2005). A polyphagous insect, the Curve-tailed Bush Katydid (Scudderia curvicauda), was observed to feed on the leaves of this milkweed (Gangwere, 1961); it may also feed on the flowers. While the foliage of Butterfly Milkweed lacks the toxic milky latex that is typical of other milkweeds (Asclepias spp.), mammalian herbivores nonetheless appear to avoid it.
Photographic Location: The above photographs were taken at the webmaster's wildflower garden, Urbana, Illinois, and a flower garden at the Anita Purvis Nature Center of the same city.
Comments: This is perhaps the showiest of the milkweeds (Asclepias spp.) because of the long-lasting and colorful flowers. Because Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is the only milkweed in Illinois that has orange flowers, it is easy to identify. This species is also unusual for a milkweed because its leaves are alternate and its foliage lacks a milky latex. Because of the absence of milky latex, it is often referred to as Butterfly Weed, rather than Butterfly Milkweed. The thick and bitter-tasting roots were used for various medicinal purposes in the past, including the treatment of pleurisy. As a result, another common name for this species is Pleurisy Root.
0
1
文章
Miss Chen
2017年12月14日
Description: This perennial herbaceous plant is 2-3' tall and unbranched. The erect central stem is relatively stout, terete, light green, and glabrous. Pairs of opposite leaves occur along the entire length of the stem; they are widely spreading to ascending (usually the latter). These leaves are 3-6" long and 1½–3" across; they are broadly oblong to ovate-oblong in shape, entire (toothless) and sometimes wavy along their margins, and either sessile or short-pedicellate. The leaf bases are rounded, while the tips of leaves are round or obtuse, tapering abruptly to a short narrow point. The upper and lower surfaces of the leaves are light-medium green and glabrous; the leaf texture is slightly fleshy. Leaf venation is pinnate; the prominent central veins are light green, pink, or purple. Each fertile plant develops 1-3 umbels of flowers (rarely more) from the apex of the central stem and the axils of the uppermost leaves. These umbels span 2–3½" across and they are slightly dome-shaped, consisting of 15-25 flowers each (rarely more).
Each flower is about ½" across and ¾" long, or slightly smaller in size, consisting of 5 sepals, 5 petals, 5 hoods with horns, and a central reproductive column that is whitish. The sepals are light green to pinkish purple, lanceolate-ovate in shape, and glabrous. The petals are mostly pink to purplish pink (although white at their bases), lanceolate in shape, and declined (bent downward). The hoods are erect, open-tubular in shape, and pink to purplish pink. Each hood has an exserted horn that is sickle-shaped and incurved. The pedicels of the flowers are 1–1½" long, light green to reddish purple, and glabrous. The peduncles of the umbels are ½–3" long, light green, and terete. The blooming period occurs during early to mid-summer, lasting about 1 month. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance. Afterwards, cross-fertilized flowers (if any) are replaced by erect to ascending follicles (seedpods that open along one side) that are 3-4" long and 1–1¼" across at maturity. These follicles are light green (while immature), lanceoloid in shape, and smooth to bluntly warty. At maturity, the follicles split open to release their seeds to the wind. The seeds are brown, flattened-ovate in shape, and narrowly winged along their margins; they have large tufts of white hair at their apices. The root system is fleshy and rhizomatous, occasionally producing clonal offsets.
Cultivation: The preference is full sunlight, moist to mesic conditions, and a rich loamy soil. While it can spread by means of its rhizomes, this plant is far less aggressive than Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). During dry weather, some of the lower leaves may turn yellow and fall off the plant. This also happens when the seedpods develop, which is quite normal. Active growth occurs during the late spring and early summer.
Range & Habitat: The native Prairie Milkweed is uncommon to occasional in the majority of counties in Illinois, but it is rare or absent in many counties of southern and NW Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include black soil prairies, cemetery prairies, prairie remnants along railroads, moist meadows along rivers or near woodlands, thickets, and roadside ditches. Prairie Milkweed is an indicator plant of average to high quality prairies.
Faunal Associations: Various insects visit the flowers of Prairie Milkweed for nectar, including bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees (including green metallic bees), Halictid cuckoo bees (Sphecodes spp.), sand wasps (Bembix spp.), Sphecid wasps, Ichneumonid wasps, thick-headed flies (Conopidae), Tachinid flies, flesh flies (Sarcophagidae), butterflies, skippers, moths, and ants (Robertson, 1929). The Ruby-throated Hummingbird also visits the flowers for nectar. Among the various visitors, bumblebees and other long-tongued bees are the most effective in cross-pollinating the flowers. Other insects feed on the roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and seedpods of Prairie Milkweed and other milkweeds (Asclepias spp.). The larvae of one species, the Milkweed Leaf-miner Fly (Liriomyza asclepiadis), tunnels through the leaves of Prairie Milkweed (Betz et al., 1997). Other insects that feed on milkweeds include long-horned beetles (Tetraopes spp.), the Swamp Milkweed Leaf Beetle (Labidomera clivicollis), the Milkweed Stem Weevil (Rhyssomatus lineaticollis), the Small Milkweed Bug (Lygaeus kalmii), the Large Milkweed Bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus), the Yellow Milkweed Aphid (Aphis nerii) and other aphids, caterpillars of a moth, the Delicate Cycnia (Cycnia tenera), and caterpillars of a butterfly, the Monarch (Danaus plexippus). The Insect Table provides additional information about these species. Because the foliage of Prairie Milkweed contains a white latex that is bitter-tasting and toxic, mammalian herbivores avoid consumption of this plant.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the Loda Cemetery Prairie in Iroquois County, Illinois.
Comments: Prairie Milkweed (Asclepias sullivantii) somewhat resembles Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) in appearance, but the former species has flowers that are slightly larger in size and its leaves are hairless on their undersides. Prairie Milkweed is usually a shorter plant than Common Milkweed, and it produces fewer umbels of flowers from the axils of its leaves. Another similar species is Purple Milkweed (Asclepias purpurascens). This latter species differs by having seedpods that are always smooth (rather than bluntly warty) and it has short hairs on the undersides of its leaves. In addition, the flowers of Purple Milkweed are slightly smaller in size than those of Prairie Milkweed, and they are usually more purple. Sometimes Prairie Milkweed has difficulty in forming seedpods because many flower-visiting insects are not very effective in removing and transferring pollinia from one plant to another. In addition, it is not uncommon for some of these insects to become entrapped on the flowers and unable to escape. Another common name of this plant is Sullivant's Milkweed.
Each flower is about ½" across and ¾" long, or slightly smaller in size, consisting of 5 sepals, 5 petals, 5 hoods with horns, and a central reproductive column that is whitish. The sepals are light green to pinkish purple, lanceolate-ovate in shape, and glabrous. The petals are mostly pink to purplish pink (although white at their bases), lanceolate in shape, and declined (bent downward). The hoods are erect, open-tubular in shape, and pink to purplish pink. Each hood has an exserted horn that is sickle-shaped and incurved. The pedicels of the flowers are 1–1½" long, light green to reddish purple, and glabrous. The peduncles of the umbels are ½–3" long, light green, and terete. The blooming period occurs during early to mid-summer, lasting about 1 month. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance. Afterwards, cross-fertilized flowers (if any) are replaced by erect to ascending follicles (seedpods that open along one side) that are 3-4" long and 1–1¼" across at maturity. These follicles are light green (while immature), lanceoloid in shape, and smooth to bluntly warty. At maturity, the follicles split open to release their seeds to the wind. The seeds are brown, flattened-ovate in shape, and narrowly winged along their margins; they have large tufts of white hair at their apices. The root system is fleshy and rhizomatous, occasionally producing clonal offsets.
Cultivation: The preference is full sunlight, moist to mesic conditions, and a rich loamy soil. While it can spread by means of its rhizomes, this plant is far less aggressive than Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). During dry weather, some of the lower leaves may turn yellow and fall off the plant. This also happens when the seedpods develop, which is quite normal. Active growth occurs during the late spring and early summer.
Range & Habitat: The native Prairie Milkweed is uncommon to occasional in the majority of counties in Illinois, but it is rare or absent in many counties of southern and NW Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include black soil prairies, cemetery prairies, prairie remnants along railroads, moist meadows along rivers or near woodlands, thickets, and roadside ditches. Prairie Milkweed is an indicator plant of average to high quality prairies.
Faunal Associations: Various insects visit the flowers of Prairie Milkweed for nectar, including bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees (including green metallic bees), Halictid cuckoo bees (Sphecodes spp.), sand wasps (Bembix spp.), Sphecid wasps, Ichneumonid wasps, thick-headed flies (Conopidae), Tachinid flies, flesh flies (Sarcophagidae), butterflies, skippers, moths, and ants (Robertson, 1929). The Ruby-throated Hummingbird also visits the flowers for nectar. Among the various visitors, bumblebees and other long-tongued bees are the most effective in cross-pollinating the flowers. Other insects feed on the roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and seedpods of Prairie Milkweed and other milkweeds (Asclepias spp.). The larvae of one species, the Milkweed Leaf-miner Fly (Liriomyza asclepiadis), tunnels through the leaves of Prairie Milkweed (Betz et al., 1997). Other insects that feed on milkweeds include long-horned beetles (Tetraopes spp.), the Swamp Milkweed Leaf Beetle (Labidomera clivicollis), the Milkweed Stem Weevil (Rhyssomatus lineaticollis), the Small Milkweed Bug (Lygaeus kalmii), the Large Milkweed Bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus), the Yellow Milkweed Aphid (Aphis nerii) and other aphids, caterpillars of a moth, the Delicate Cycnia (Cycnia tenera), and caterpillars of a butterfly, the Monarch (Danaus plexippus). The Insect Table provides additional information about these species. Because the foliage of Prairie Milkweed contains a white latex that is bitter-tasting and toxic, mammalian herbivores avoid consumption of this plant.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the Loda Cemetery Prairie in Iroquois County, Illinois.
Comments: Prairie Milkweed (Asclepias sullivantii) somewhat resembles Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) in appearance, but the former species has flowers that are slightly larger in size and its leaves are hairless on their undersides. Prairie Milkweed is usually a shorter plant than Common Milkweed, and it produces fewer umbels of flowers from the axils of its leaves. Another similar species is Purple Milkweed (Asclepias purpurascens). This latter species differs by having seedpods that are always smooth (rather than bluntly warty) and it has short hairs on the undersides of its leaves. In addition, the flowers of Purple Milkweed are slightly smaller in size than those of Prairie Milkweed, and they are usually more purple. Sometimes Prairie Milkweed has difficulty in forming seedpods because many flower-visiting insects are not very effective in removing and transferring pollinia from one plant to another. In addition, it is not uncommon for some of these insects to become entrapped on the flowers and unable to escape. Another common name of this plant is Sullivant's Milkweed.
0
0
