文章
Miss Chen
2018年02月04日
Description: This perennial wildflower produces ascending stems 2-6" long that branch occasionally. These stems are surrounded by finger-like leaves that are ascending to widely spreading; the stems are light green, glabrous, and succulent. The leaves are up to 3" long, terete in cross-section, and succulent; they are green to blue-gray and glabrous. Occasionally, the upper stems produce cymes of flowers on long slender stalks (peduncles); these stalks are 4-10" long. Each cyme is open and widely spreading (up to 12" across); its branching structure is dichotomous or trichotomous. Pairs of tiny lanceolate bracts occur along the branches of each cyme. Usually, each cyme has about 5-50 flowers, although poorly developed cymes may have fewer flowers than this. Each flower spans about 1" across, consisting of 5 petals, 2 sepals, 30-45 stamens, and a pistil with a single slender style. The widely spreading petals are deep rose pink and well-rounded, while the sepals are light green to membranous and ovate to oval-orbicular in shape. The petals are much longer than the sepals. The style of each flower is about twice the length of the stamens; there is a knobby stigma at the end of the style.
The blooming period occurs intermittently during the summer for 1-3 months; sometimes several flowers bloom at the same time. The flowers open on sunny days during the early afternoon for about 2 hours; individual flowers last only a single day and they lack fragrance. Each fertile flower is replaced by a seed capsule that is up to 1/3" (8 mm.) in length; it is ovoid-globoid in shape, and divides into 3 parts to release the tiny seeds inside. Individual seeds are about 1 mm. in length; they are reniform and flattened in shape with smooth outer surfaces. The seeds are small enough to be blown about by the wind. The root system consists of a thickened taproot with fibrous secondary roots.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, dry conditions, and soil that is rocky, gravelly, or sandy. This species is adaptable to a sunny rock garden and it is intolerant of competition from tall aggressive plants.
Range & Habitat: Large-Flowered Rock Pink has been found in only a single county in SW Illinois, where it is extremely rare (see Distribution Map). This native species is state-listed as endangered. Large-Flowered Rock Pink occurs primarily in the southern plains; Illinois lies at the NE range limit for this species. In Illinois, habitats are restricted to sunny ledges of sandstone cliffs. In others states, habitats include rocky glades, hill prairies, and barren upland savannas. Occasionally, this species is cultivated in gardens because of the attractive flowers and foliage.
Faunal Associations: Very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. The webmaster observed a medium-sized dark bee collecting pollen from the flowers while they were being photographed.
Photographic Location: A flower garden at the Arboretum of the University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Other common names include Large Flower-of-an-Hour and Fame-Flower. The flowers are beautiful, but short-lived. Two other species in this genus that occur in Illinois are Phemeranthus parviflorus (Small-Flowered Rock Pink) and Phemeranthus rugospermus (Sand Rock Pink). The flowers of these latter species are smaller in size (less than ¾") and the styles of their flowers are about the same length as the stamens. In contrast, Large-Flowered Rock Pink has flowers about 1" across and the styles of its flowers are about twice the length of the stamens. Without observing the flowers, it is very difficult to distinguish these species. Interestingly, each of these species blooms during a different time of the day: Small-Flowered Rock Pink blooms during the morning, Sand Rock Pink blooms during the late afternoon, while Large-Flowered Rock Pink blooms during the early afternoon. A scientific synonym of Large-Flowered Rock Pink is Talinum calycinum.
The blooming period occurs intermittently during the summer for 1-3 months; sometimes several flowers bloom at the same time. The flowers open on sunny days during the early afternoon for about 2 hours; individual flowers last only a single day and they lack fragrance. Each fertile flower is replaced by a seed capsule that is up to 1/3" (8 mm.) in length; it is ovoid-globoid in shape, and divides into 3 parts to release the tiny seeds inside. Individual seeds are about 1 mm. in length; they are reniform and flattened in shape with smooth outer surfaces. The seeds are small enough to be blown about by the wind. The root system consists of a thickened taproot with fibrous secondary roots.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, dry conditions, and soil that is rocky, gravelly, or sandy. This species is adaptable to a sunny rock garden and it is intolerant of competition from tall aggressive plants.
Range & Habitat: Large-Flowered Rock Pink has been found in only a single county in SW Illinois, where it is extremely rare (see Distribution Map). This native species is state-listed as endangered. Large-Flowered Rock Pink occurs primarily in the southern plains; Illinois lies at the NE range limit for this species. In Illinois, habitats are restricted to sunny ledges of sandstone cliffs. In others states, habitats include rocky glades, hill prairies, and barren upland savannas. Occasionally, this species is cultivated in gardens because of the attractive flowers and foliage.
Faunal Associations: Very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. The webmaster observed a medium-sized dark bee collecting pollen from the flowers while they were being photographed.
Photographic Location: A flower garden at the Arboretum of the University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Other common names include Large Flower-of-an-Hour and Fame-Flower. The flowers are beautiful, but short-lived. Two other species in this genus that occur in Illinois are Phemeranthus parviflorus (Small-Flowered Rock Pink) and Phemeranthus rugospermus (Sand Rock Pink). The flowers of these latter species are smaller in size (less than ¾") and the styles of their flowers are about the same length as the stamens. In contrast, Large-Flowered Rock Pink has flowers about 1" across and the styles of its flowers are about twice the length of the stamens. Without observing the flowers, it is very difficult to distinguish these species. Interestingly, each of these species blooms during a different time of the day: Small-Flowered Rock Pink blooms during the morning, Sand Rock Pink blooms during the late afternoon, while Large-Flowered Rock Pink blooms during the early afternoon. A scientific synonym of Large-Flowered Rock Pink is Talinum calycinum.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年02月04日
Description: This annual plant is 1-4' tall, branching occasionally. It is more or less erect, often bending toward the light in partially shaded locations. The stems are light green to red, terete, relatively stout, and glabrous; they have a tendency to zigzag between the alternate leaves. The leaves are up to 7" long and 2½" across; they are medium to dark green, glabrous on both the upper and lower sides (for this variety), narrowly lanceolate to lanceolate in shape, and smooth to minutely ciliate along their margins. On rare occasions, the leaves are marked with chevrons that are faintly darkened, otherwise they are unmarked. The petioles are up to 1" long, usually light green, glabrous, and plano-convex (flattened above and convex below). At the bases of petioles, there are ring-like ochrea (membranous sheaths) that surround the stems. These ochrea are ¼–¾" long, light green to light brown (depending on their age), longitudinally veined, and translucent; their upper rims are truncate to asymmetric and devoid of bristles. The upper stems terminate in 1-2 spike-like racemes of flowers that are about ¾-2½" long and cylindrical in appearance; these racemes are usually straight and they are erect to ascending.
Small flowers and flower buds are densely crowded along the entire length of each raceme, surrounding its rachis (central stalk) in all directions. Along this rachis, are ochreolae (small membranous sheaths) that are spaced at short intervals from each other; several flowers are associated with each ochreola. Each flower is 3-4.5 mm. long (1/8" or slightly longer), consisting of 5 tepals, several stamens, and a pistil. The tepals are white, light pink, or rosy pink; they are joined together along the lower one-half of their length, while their tips are ovate and erect. The anthers are white or pink. The peduncles of the racemes are ¾–3½" long, light green to reddish green, terete, glandular-pubescent, and either unbranched or dichotomously forked. Peduncles that are forked produce 2 racemes of flowers. The blooming period occurs during the summer or early autumn, lasting about 1 month for a colony of plants. There is no noticeable floral scent. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by achenes (one achene per flower). These achenes are 2-3.5 mm. long and almost as much across; they are dark brown to black, flattened-orbicular in shape, smooth, and shiny. The root system consists of a taproot with smaller and more shallow lateral roots. Colonies of plants are often formed at favorable locations.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, moist conditions, and rich loamy soil. Standing water is tolerated if it is temporary. This robust plant is rather weedy and easy to grow – it has more tolerance to drought than many other smartweeds. The leaves are rarely blemished by disease, although they are sometimes attacked by insects.
Range & Habitat: The native Pennsylvania Smartweed occurs in every county of Illinois, where it is common (see Distribution Map). Habitats include wet prairies, prairie swales, swamps, low areas near ponds or rivers, edges of marshes, degraded seasonal wetlands, abandoned fields, low areas along railroads, roadside ditches, vacant lots, fence rows, and waste areas. This annual plant thrives on the reduced competition resulting from disturbance.
Faunal Associations: The flowers of Pennsylvania Smartweed attract many kinds of insects, including honeybees, bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp., Triepeolus spp.), digger bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees, Andrenid bees, Sphecid wasps, Vespid wasps, spider wasps (Anoplius spp.), Syrphid flies, Tachinid flies, flesh flies (Ravinia spp.), and miscellaneous butterflies and moths (Robertson, 1929). Most of these insects feed on the nectar and they help to cross-pollinate the flowers. Other insects feed on the leaves, roots, plant juices, and other parts of Pennsylvania Smartweed and other smartweeds (Persicaria spp.). These species include the Red-headed Flea Beetle (Systena frontalis) and other leaf beetles, larvae and adults of various weevils, the Polygonum Aphid (Capitophorus hippophaes) and other aphids, larvae of the Dock Sawfly (Ametastegia glabrata) and other sawflies (Ametastegia spp.), larvae of the Bent-line Carpet (Orthonama centrostrigaria) and other moths, and larvae of the Bronze Copper (Lycaena hyllus) and other butterflies. See the Insect Table for a listing of these and other species.
Among vertebrate animals, the seeds of Pennsylvania Smartweed and other smartweeds are an important source of food to many bird species, including waterfowl, upland game birds, and granivorous songbirds (see the Bird Table). The seeds are also eaten by small rodents, including the White-footed Mouse and wild House Mouse (Whitaker, 1966). According to Ernst et al. (1994), several turtles feed on smartweeds (probably the foliage to a minor extent); this includes such turtles as the Snapping Turtle (Chelydrina serpentina), Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta), Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina), and Slider (Trachemys scripta). Mammalian herbivores usually avoid the foliage of Pennsylvania Smartweed and most other smartweeds because their leaves are somewhat bitter and peppery.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a vacant lot near Urbana, Illinois, and a seasonal wetland at Judge Webber Park of the same city.
Comments: This native plant, along with other members of the genus, is often undervalued because it is considered too common, and the flowers are not thought to be sufficient large and pretty. In fact, Pennsylvania Smartweed is rather attractive when the flowers are bright pink, and its ecological value to birds, moths, butterflies, and other insects, regardless of the color of the flowers, is quite high. Different varieties of this smartweed have been described by some authors (e.g., Mohlenbrock, 2002); Persicaria pensylvanica laevigata is the most common variety in Illinois, which is distinguished from the others by the glabrous lower surface of its leaves. Distinguishing Pennsylvania Smartweed from other smartweed species (Persicaria spp.) can be difficult, in part because of its variability across different populations of plants. This variability includes such features as the color of flowers (white, light pink, rosy pink), the hairiness of the foliage, and the width of the leaves. Pennsylvania Smartweed has the following features that are sometimes helpful in making a correct identification as to species: 1) the ochrea on its stems lack bristles along their upper rims, 2) the peduncles of its inflorescences are usually glandular pubescent, 3) its spike-like racemes are usually straight and more or less erect, rather than curved and nodding, 4) it usually forms taller plants than most smartweed species and its leaves are more long and wide, and 5) its flattened seeds are usually larger in size. Other common names for this smartweed are 'Pinkweed' and 'Big-seeded Smartweed.' Another scientific name of this plant is Polygonum pensylvanicum laevigatum.
Small flowers and flower buds are densely crowded along the entire length of each raceme, surrounding its rachis (central stalk) in all directions. Along this rachis, are ochreolae (small membranous sheaths) that are spaced at short intervals from each other; several flowers are associated with each ochreola. Each flower is 3-4.5 mm. long (1/8" or slightly longer), consisting of 5 tepals, several stamens, and a pistil. The tepals are white, light pink, or rosy pink; they are joined together along the lower one-half of their length, while their tips are ovate and erect. The anthers are white or pink. The peduncles of the racemes are ¾–3½" long, light green to reddish green, terete, glandular-pubescent, and either unbranched or dichotomously forked. Peduncles that are forked produce 2 racemes of flowers. The blooming period occurs during the summer or early autumn, lasting about 1 month for a colony of plants. There is no noticeable floral scent. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by achenes (one achene per flower). These achenes are 2-3.5 mm. long and almost as much across; they are dark brown to black, flattened-orbicular in shape, smooth, and shiny. The root system consists of a taproot with smaller and more shallow lateral roots. Colonies of plants are often formed at favorable locations.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, moist conditions, and rich loamy soil. Standing water is tolerated if it is temporary. This robust plant is rather weedy and easy to grow – it has more tolerance to drought than many other smartweeds. The leaves are rarely blemished by disease, although they are sometimes attacked by insects.
Range & Habitat: The native Pennsylvania Smartweed occurs in every county of Illinois, where it is common (see Distribution Map). Habitats include wet prairies, prairie swales, swamps, low areas near ponds or rivers, edges of marshes, degraded seasonal wetlands, abandoned fields, low areas along railroads, roadside ditches, vacant lots, fence rows, and waste areas. This annual plant thrives on the reduced competition resulting from disturbance.
Faunal Associations: The flowers of Pennsylvania Smartweed attract many kinds of insects, including honeybees, bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp., Triepeolus spp.), digger bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees, Andrenid bees, Sphecid wasps, Vespid wasps, spider wasps (Anoplius spp.), Syrphid flies, Tachinid flies, flesh flies (Ravinia spp.), and miscellaneous butterflies and moths (Robertson, 1929). Most of these insects feed on the nectar and they help to cross-pollinate the flowers. Other insects feed on the leaves, roots, plant juices, and other parts of Pennsylvania Smartweed and other smartweeds (Persicaria spp.). These species include the Red-headed Flea Beetle (Systena frontalis) and other leaf beetles, larvae and adults of various weevils, the Polygonum Aphid (Capitophorus hippophaes) and other aphids, larvae of the Dock Sawfly (Ametastegia glabrata) and other sawflies (Ametastegia spp.), larvae of the Bent-line Carpet (Orthonama centrostrigaria) and other moths, and larvae of the Bronze Copper (Lycaena hyllus) and other butterflies. See the Insect Table for a listing of these and other species.
Among vertebrate animals, the seeds of Pennsylvania Smartweed and other smartweeds are an important source of food to many bird species, including waterfowl, upland game birds, and granivorous songbirds (see the Bird Table). The seeds are also eaten by small rodents, including the White-footed Mouse and wild House Mouse (Whitaker, 1966). According to Ernst et al. (1994), several turtles feed on smartweeds (probably the foliage to a minor extent); this includes such turtles as the Snapping Turtle (Chelydrina serpentina), Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta), Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina), and Slider (Trachemys scripta). Mammalian herbivores usually avoid the foliage of Pennsylvania Smartweed and most other smartweeds because their leaves are somewhat bitter and peppery.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a vacant lot near Urbana, Illinois, and a seasonal wetland at Judge Webber Park of the same city.
Comments: This native plant, along with other members of the genus, is often undervalued because it is considered too common, and the flowers are not thought to be sufficient large and pretty. In fact, Pennsylvania Smartweed is rather attractive when the flowers are bright pink, and its ecological value to birds, moths, butterflies, and other insects, regardless of the color of the flowers, is quite high. Different varieties of this smartweed have been described by some authors (e.g., Mohlenbrock, 2002); Persicaria pensylvanica laevigata is the most common variety in Illinois, which is distinguished from the others by the glabrous lower surface of its leaves. Distinguishing Pennsylvania Smartweed from other smartweed species (Persicaria spp.) can be difficult, in part because of its variability across different populations of plants. This variability includes such features as the color of flowers (white, light pink, rosy pink), the hairiness of the foliage, and the width of the leaves. Pennsylvania Smartweed has the following features that are sometimes helpful in making a correct identification as to species: 1) the ochrea on its stems lack bristles along their upper rims, 2) the peduncles of its inflorescences are usually glandular pubescent, 3) its spike-like racemes are usually straight and more or less erect, rather than curved and nodding, 4) it usually forms taller plants than most smartweed species and its leaves are more long and wide, and 5) its flattened seeds are usually larger in size. Other common names for this smartweed are 'Pinkweed' and 'Big-seeded Smartweed.' Another scientific name of this plant is Polygonum pensylvanicum laevigatum.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年02月04日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is 2-3½' tall, branching sparingly. The slender stems are round and hairless. The alternate compound leaves occur sparingly along the stems; they are doubly pinnate, and about 8" long and half as wide. The slender leaflets are up to 1/8" (3 mm.) across. They often have 1-3 lobes, but their margins are smooth. The upper stems terminate in compound umbels with small white flowers. A typical umbel is about 6" across and has about 12 umbellets; these umbellets are loosely arranged, rather than compressed together. An umbellet is about 1" across and has 7-21 flowers.
Each flower is about 1/8" (3 mm.) across, with 5 white petals that are notched in the middle, and 5 green sepals that are small and triangular. There are also up to 5 white stamens with 5 white anthers that are potentially observable; frequently, there appears to be fewer than 5 of these reproductive structures because they are fragile and short-lived. The blooming period occurs during early summer and lasts about 2 weeks. There is no noticeable floral scent. The root system is tuberous, which enables this plant to develop quickly during the spring and early summer. After blooming, it quickly fades away and becomes dormant for the rest of the year.
Cultivation: The preference is light shade to full sun, and moist to slightly dry conditions. Wild Dill often grows in soil that is rich and loamy; it also tolerates some clay or rocky material. This plant should be cultivated more often in wildflower gardens.
Range & Habitat: The native Wild Dill occurs occasionally in NE and central Illinois, but it is rare or absent elsewhere (see Distribution Map). Habitats include mesic black soil prairies, openings or edges near woodlands, areas along woodland paths, thickets, limestone glades, and bluffs. It often grows in grassy areas, but is easy to overlook, except during the short blooming period. This plant is more typical of high quality habitats than disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts many small bees, wasps, flies, and beetles. Among the flies, are such visitors as biting midges, Syrphid flies, thick-headed flies, Tachinid flies, flesh flies, bottle flies, Muscid flies, Chloropid flies, and others. Among the wasps, are such unusual visitors as cuckoo wasps and various parasitoid wasps, including the Chalcid, Perilampid, Eucoilid, Figitid, and Ichneumonid wasps. Little is known about this plant's relationship to mammalian herbivores; because the foliage is not known to be toxic, it is probably consumed by them occasionally.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois, and at Prospect Cemetery Prairie in Ford County, Illinois.
Comments: This is an ethereal plant that is lovely while in bloom; unfortunately, this doesn't last very long. From a distance, Wild Dill may appear to be an early blooming Daucus carota (Wild Carrot), but closer inspection of the foliage and flowers will reveal significant differences between these two plants. What sets Wild Dill apart from many other white-flowered members of the Carrot family is the season of bloom (early summer) and the slender, delicate leaves (not wider than 1/8" across). Also, it should not be confused with Anethum graveolens (Cultivated Dill); this familiar annual herb from the Old World has yellow flowers. Another common name for Perideridia americana is 'Thicket Parsley.'
Each flower is about 1/8" (3 mm.) across, with 5 white petals that are notched in the middle, and 5 green sepals that are small and triangular. There are also up to 5 white stamens with 5 white anthers that are potentially observable; frequently, there appears to be fewer than 5 of these reproductive structures because they are fragile and short-lived. The blooming period occurs during early summer and lasts about 2 weeks. There is no noticeable floral scent. The root system is tuberous, which enables this plant to develop quickly during the spring and early summer. After blooming, it quickly fades away and becomes dormant for the rest of the year.
Cultivation: The preference is light shade to full sun, and moist to slightly dry conditions. Wild Dill often grows in soil that is rich and loamy; it also tolerates some clay or rocky material. This plant should be cultivated more often in wildflower gardens.
Range & Habitat: The native Wild Dill occurs occasionally in NE and central Illinois, but it is rare or absent elsewhere (see Distribution Map). Habitats include mesic black soil prairies, openings or edges near woodlands, areas along woodland paths, thickets, limestone glades, and bluffs. It often grows in grassy areas, but is easy to overlook, except during the short blooming period. This plant is more typical of high quality habitats than disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts many small bees, wasps, flies, and beetles. Among the flies, are such visitors as biting midges, Syrphid flies, thick-headed flies, Tachinid flies, flesh flies, bottle flies, Muscid flies, Chloropid flies, and others. Among the wasps, are such unusual visitors as cuckoo wasps and various parasitoid wasps, including the Chalcid, Perilampid, Eucoilid, Figitid, and Ichneumonid wasps. Little is known about this plant's relationship to mammalian herbivores; because the foliage is not known to be toxic, it is probably consumed by them occasionally.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois, and at Prospect Cemetery Prairie in Ford County, Illinois.
Comments: This is an ethereal plant that is lovely while in bloom; unfortunately, this doesn't last very long. From a distance, Wild Dill may appear to be an early blooming Daucus carota (Wild Carrot), but closer inspection of the foliage and flowers will reveal significant differences between these two plants. What sets Wild Dill apart from many other white-flowered members of the Carrot family is the season of bloom (early summer) and the slender, delicate leaves (not wider than 1/8" across). Also, it should not be confused with Anethum graveolens (Cultivated Dill); this familiar annual herb from the Old World has yellow flowers. Another common name for Perideridia americana is 'Thicket Parsley.'
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年02月02日
Description: This perennial wildflower is 1-2½' tall, branching occasionally. The stems are terete and either glabrous or slightly pubescent. Alternate trifoliate leaves occur along the stems on petioles that are ½-2" in length. At the base of each petiole, there is a pair of narrowly lanceolate stipules less than ¼" long. The rather narrow leaflets are 1-3" long and ¼-¾" across; they are ellipsoid to oblong in shape and smooth along their margins. The upper surfaces of the leaflets are medium green and hairless (or nearly so). In each trifoliate leaf, the lateral leaflets are nearly sessile, while the terminal leaflet has a short petiolule (stalklet) at its base. Spike-like racemes of flowers about 1½–4" long develop from some of the leaf axils. These racemes are held more or less erect above the foliage on long naked peduncles about 3-6" long. The peduncles are glabrous or slightly pubescent. The flowers are arranged somewhat densely all around the raceme; they vary in color from blue-violet to white. Usually, the buds near the apex of a raceme are more blue-violet than the flowers in bloom below, which tend to be more white. Individual flowers are ¼" long, consisting of 5 petals, a short tubular calyx with 5 teeth, and the reproductive organs. The arrangement of the petals is typical for species in the Bean family: there is an upright banner and a pair of lateral wings that project forward to enclose the keel (consisting of two smaller petals).
The blooming period occurs from early to mid-summer and lasts about 3 weeks. The flowers are replaced by small seedpods (a little less than ¼" in length) that are flattened and nearly circular in shape. The sides of each pod have transverse wrinkles. Each seedpod contains a single seed. The root system consists of a taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, mesic to dry conditions, and an acidic soil that is sandy or rocky.
Range & Habitat: The native Sampson's Snakeroot is occasional in southern Illinois, while in the rest of the state it is absent (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the northern range limit for this flowering plant. Habitats include mesic to dry prairies, sand prairies, sandstone glades, rocky upland woodlands, savannas, and thinly wooded bluffs. This wildflower benefits from occasional disturbance that reduces the encroachment of woody vegetation.
Faunal Associations: In general, very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. The flowers are pollinated primarily by bees, which seek nectar and pollen. A Carder bee, Anthidium psoraleae, is one of the bee visitors of the flowers; it is a weak oligolege (specialist pollinator) of flowering plants in the Fabaceae (Bean family). A similar species, Anthidium maculifrons, may be another oligolectic visitor of the flowers. The caterpillars of the moth, Cyclophora pendulinaria (Sweetfern Geometer), have been observed to feed on Sampson's Snakeroot.
Photographic Location: The flowering plants were photographed by Keith & Patty Horn (Copyright © 2009) at a prairie in Fayette County, Illinois. The trifoliate leaf was photographed by the webmaster at the top of a semi-shaded sandstone cliff in southern Illinois.
Comments: Sampson's Snakeroot is a fairly typical example of a species in the Bean family: it has trifoliate leaves and racemes of pea-like flowers. The seedpods are perhaps its most unusual feature: they are nearly circular in shape and contain a single seed. More typically, the seedpods of species in this family are more elongated in shape and contain several seeds. In Illinois, the closest relative of Sampson's Snakeroot is Orbexilum onobrychis (Sanfoin), which is found in habitats that are more moist (e.g., river-bottom prairies). This latter species is larger in size (3-4' tall) than Sampson's Snakeroot, its leaflets are more wide (often exceeding 1" across), and its flowers are usually a deeper shade of blue-violet. Another similar species, Psoralidium tenuiflorum (Scurfy Pea), has palmately compound leaves with as many as 5 leaflets and the flowers of its racemes are more loosely arranged on shorter peduncles. An older scientific name of Sampson's Snakeroot is Psoralea psoralioides.
The blooming period occurs from early to mid-summer and lasts about 3 weeks. The flowers are replaced by small seedpods (a little less than ¼" in length) that are flattened and nearly circular in shape. The sides of each pod have transverse wrinkles. Each seedpod contains a single seed. The root system consists of a taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, mesic to dry conditions, and an acidic soil that is sandy or rocky.
Range & Habitat: The native Sampson's Snakeroot is occasional in southern Illinois, while in the rest of the state it is absent (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the northern range limit for this flowering plant. Habitats include mesic to dry prairies, sand prairies, sandstone glades, rocky upland woodlands, savannas, and thinly wooded bluffs. This wildflower benefits from occasional disturbance that reduces the encroachment of woody vegetation.
Faunal Associations: In general, very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. The flowers are pollinated primarily by bees, which seek nectar and pollen. A Carder bee, Anthidium psoraleae, is one of the bee visitors of the flowers; it is a weak oligolege (specialist pollinator) of flowering plants in the Fabaceae (Bean family). A similar species, Anthidium maculifrons, may be another oligolectic visitor of the flowers. The caterpillars of the moth, Cyclophora pendulinaria (Sweetfern Geometer), have been observed to feed on Sampson's Snakeroot.
Photographic Location: The flowering plants were photographed by Keith & Patty Horn (Copyright © 2009) at a prairie in Fayette County, Illinois. The trifoliate leaf was photographed by the webmaster at the top of a semi-shaded sandstone cliff in southern Illinois.
Comments: Sampson's Snakeroot is a fairly typical example of a species in the Bean family: it has trifoliate leaves and racemes of pea-like flowers. The seedpods are perhaps its most unusual feature: they are nearly circular in shape and contain a single seed. More typically, the seedpods of species in this family are more elongated in shape and contain several seeds. In Illinois, the closest relative of Sampson's Snakeroot is Orbexilum onobrychis (Sanfoin), which is found in habitats that are more moist (e.g., river-bottom prairies). This latter species is larger in size (3-4' tall) than Sampson's Snakeroot, its leaflets are more wide (often exceeding 1" across), and its flowers are usually a deeper shade of blue-violet. Another similar species, Psoralidium tenuiflorum (Scurfy Pea), has palmately compound leaves with as many as 5 leaflets and the flowers of its racemes are more loosely arranged on shorter peduncles. An older scientific name of Sampson's Snakeroot is Psoralea psoralioides.
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Miss Chen
2018年02月02日
Description: This perennial wildflower is 2-3½' tall and either unbranched or sparingly branched. The central stem and any lateral stems are medium green, terete, and sparsely short-pubescent. The alternate leaves are trifoliate; their petioles are 2-6" long, somewhat angular, medium green, and sparsely short-pubescent. At the base of each petiole, there is a pair of stipules about 8 mm. (0.3") long; they are linear-lanceolate in shape and early-deciduous. The leaflets of the trifoliate leaves are 2-4' long and 1-2" across; they are lanceolate-ovate to ovate in shape, while their margins are smooth (entire) and slightly ciliate. The bases of these leaflets are rounded, while their tips are rather slender and pointed. The upper leaflet surface is medium green and sparsely short-pubescent to glabrous, while the lower leaflet surface is pale to medium green and sparsely short-pubescent. Leaflet venation is pinnate. The terminal leaflets have petiolules (basal stalklets) about ½-1" long, while the petiolules of the lateral leaflets are less than 1/8" in length.
Both axillary and terminal racemes of flowers are produced on peduncles about 2-8" in length. These racemes are 2-6" long and spike-like in appearance; the density of flowers along each raceme is intermediate. The central stalk of each raceme is pale green and sparsely covered with short fine pubescence. Each flower is about ¼" long and relatively narrow in shape, consisting of 5 blue, purple, or nearly white petals, a short-tubular calyx with 5 teeth, and the reproductive organs. The petals form an upright banner, a pair of forward-projecting wings, and a small keel that is largely hidden by the wings. At the base of the banner, there is a small patch of yellow with fine purple veins. The calyx is pale green to pale purplish yellow and sparsely short-pubescent. The pedicels of the flowers are very short (less than 1/8" in length). The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer, lasting about 1 month. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by short seedpods about 8-12 mm. long. These seedpods are obovoid, somewhat compressed (flattened), and asymmetric (more curved on one sideLeaflet Underside than the other); they are single-seeded. Individual seeds are 4-6 mm. long, reniform (kidney-shaped), and somewhat compressed, becoming dark brown at maturity. The root system is rhizomatous, often forming clonal colonies of plants.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, mesic to dry-mesic conditions, and loamy soil. This wildflower can be propagated by seed or division of its rhizomes.
Range & Habitat: The native French Grass is uncommon to occasional in central Illinois, becoming rare or absent in the southern and northern sections of the state (see Distribution Map). It is found primarily in the lower Midwest (Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and eastern Missouri). Habitats include black soil prairies, pioneer cemetery prairies, lower slopes of hill prairies, riverbanks, upland open woodlands, poorly maintained embankments along country roads, and fallow fields. French Grass is found in both high quality habitats (mostly prairie remnants) and more disturbed habitats that have a history of neglect.
Faunal Associations: Aside from flower-visiting insects, very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. Robertson (1929) observed honeybees, bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Coelioxys spp.), leaf-cutter bees (Megachile spp.), mason bees (Osmia spp.) Halictid bees, plasterer bees (Colletes spp.), Sphecid wasps, Vespid wasps, bee flies (Bombyliidae), thick-headed flies (Conopidae), butterflies, skippers, and moths visiting the flowers for nectar. Some of the bees also collected pollen from the flowers. Robertson also observed an uncommon carder bee, Anthidium psoralaeae, visiting the flowers of French Grass. This latter bee is an oligolege (specialist pollinator) of some prairie species (Orbexilum spp., Psoralidium spp., etc.) in the Bean family. There is also a newly discovered, but still unnamed, moth caterpillar (Schinia sp.) that feeds on French Grass in the lower Midwest. This caterpillar is pale yellowish green with pairs of large black dots along its sides.
Photographic Location: An overgrown embankment along a gravelly road in Vermilion County, Illinois.
Comments: In spite of the common name, this species is a legume in the Bean family, rather than a grass. The foliage of French Grass has a striking similarity to the foliage of cultivated Soybeans (Glycine max). However, both the inflorescences and seeds of these two species bear little resemblance to each other. French Grass appears to be a species that is often neglected in prairie and savanna restorations, even though it is probably not difficult to cultivate. Another species that is native to Illinois, Orbexilum pedunculatum (Sampson's Snakeroot), is a smaller plant with more narrow leaves and its flowers are usually more white or pinkish white than those of French Grass. Sometimes 'Sanfoin' is used as a common name for Orbexilum onobrychis. A scientific synonym of this species is Psoralea onobrychis.
Both axillary and terminal racemes of flowers are produced on peduncles about 2-8" in length. These racemes are 2-6" long and spike-like in appearance; the density of flowers along each raceme is intermediate. The central stalk of each raceme is pale green and sparsely covered with short fine pubescence. Each flower is about ¼" long and relatively narrow in shape, consisting of 5 blue, purple, or nearly white petals, a short-tubular calyx with 5 teeth, and the reproductive organs. The petals form an upright banner, a pair of forward-projecting wings, and a small keel that is largely hidden by the wings. At the base of the banner, there is a small patch of yellow with fine purple veins. The calyx is pale green to pale purplish yellow and sparsely short-pubescent. The pedicels of the flowers are very short (less than 1/8" in length). The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer, lasting about 1 month. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by short seedpods about 8-12 mm. long. These seedpods are obovoid, somewhat compressed (flattened), and asymmetric (more curved on one sideLeaflet Underside than the other); they are single-seeded. Individual seeds are 4-6 mm. long, reniform (kidney-shaped), and somewhat compressed, becoming dark brown at maturity. The root system is rhizomatous, often forming clonal colonies of plants.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, mesic to dry-mesic conditions, and loamy soil. This wildflower can be propagated by seed or division of its rhizomes.
Range & Habitat: The native French Grass is uncommon to occasional in central Illinois, becoming rare or absent in the southern and northern sections of the state (see Distribution Map). It is found primarily in the lower Midwest (Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and eastern Missouri). Habitats include black soil prairies, pioneer cemetery prairies, lower slopes of hill prairies, riverbanks, upland open woodlands, poorly maintained embankments along country roads, and fallow fields. French Grass is found in both high quality habitats (mostly prairie remnants) and more disturbed habitats that have a history of neglect.
Faunal Associations: Aside from flower-visiting insects, very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. Robertson (1929) observed honeybees, bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Coelioxys spp.), leaf-cutter bees (Megachile spp.), mason bees (Osmia spp.) Halictid bees, plasterer bees (Colletes spp.), Sphecid wasps, Vespid wasps, bee flies (Bombyliidae), thick-headed flies (Conopidae), butterflies, skippers, and moths visiting the flowers for nectar. Some of the bees also collected pollen from the flowers. Robertson also observed an uncommon carder bee, Anthidium psoralaeae, visiting the flowers of French Grass. This latter bee is an oligolege (specialist pollinator) of some prairie species (Orbexilum spp., Psoralidium spp., etc.) in the Bean family. There is also a newly discovered, but still unnamed, moth caterpillar (Schinia sp.) that feeds on French Grass in the lower Midwest. This caterpillar is pale yellowish green with pairs of large black dots along its sides.
Photographic Location: An overgrown embankment along a gravelly road in Vermilion County, Illinois.
Comments: In spite of the common name, this species is a legume in the Bean family, rather than a grass. The foliage of French Grass has a striking similarity to the foliage of cultivated Soybeans (Glycine max). However, both the inflorescences and seeds of these two species bear little resemblance to each other. French Grass appears to be a species that is often neglected in prairie and savanna restorations, even though it is probably not difficult to cultivate. Another species that is native to Illinois, Orbexilum pedunculatum (Sampson's Snakeroot), is a smaller plant with more narrow leaves and its flowers are usually more white or pinkish white than those of French Grass. Sometimes 'Sanfoin' is used as a common name for Orbexilum onobrychis. A scientific synonym of this species is Psoralea onobrychis.
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Miss Chen
2018年02月01日
Description: This perennial plant is 1-3' tall, producing multiple erect to spreading shoots from the root system. The stems are whitish green, terete, densely appressed-pubescent, and moderately hairy; they are either unbranched, sparingly branched, or occasionally branched. Spreading alternate leaves occur along these stems that are 1½–3½" long and ½–1" across. These leaves are elliptic, broadly elliptic, or lanceolate-elliptic in shape, while their margins are toothless and ciliate; they are usually sessile. The upper leaf surface is medium green or grayish green; it is sparsely to moderately covered with appressed to ascending hairs. The lower leaf surface is light green and appressed-pubescent; it also has spreading hairs along the major veins. The uppermost leaves are usually more hairy than the remaining leaves. Individual leaves have 3-7 primary veins that are more or less parallel to each other; they are very conspicuous on both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves. The central stem (and upper lateral stems, if present) terminates in a coiled raceme of flowers up to 1' long. The flowers occur along only one side of the raceme, facing more or less downward while they are in bloom.
Each flower has a white corolla that is ½–¾" long, a hairy green calyx with 5 slender lobes, 5 inserted stamens, and a pistil with a strongly exerted white style. The corolla is cylindrical-angular in shape, becoming slightly and gradually wider toward its tip. At the tip of the corolla, there are 5 triangular lobes that extend outward and inward, effectively closing off the opening of the corolla, except for the exerted style. These lobes are often tinted green or yellow. The outer sides of the corolla are densely canescent, except where its lobes occur; the latter are hairy throughout. The lobes of the calyx are linear-lanceolate to linear-oblong in shape. Including its lobes, the calyx is about two-thirds as long as the corolla. The pedicels of the flowers are up to ¼" long (rarely longer); they are whitish green, terete, appressed-pubescent, and covered with appressed to slightly spreading hairs. At the bases of these pedicels, there are solitary bracts up to 1" long that resemble the leaves. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer, lasting about 3 weeks. There is no noticeable floral scent. Afterwards, the raceme uncoils itself and becomes more straight and erect; each flower is replaced by 0-4 nutlets (often, there is only a single nutlet per flower). Mature nutlets are 3.5–4.5 mm. long, 2.5–3.5 mm. across, and ovoid in shape; their tips are bluntly acute, while their bottoms are more or less truncate and discolored. There is no ring-like constriction near the base of each nutlet. The sides of these nutlets are pale brown to white and either dull or shiny; they are usually devoid of small pits, although sometimes a few scattered pits may occur. The nutlets are also quite hard. The root system consists of a deep taproot. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and soil containing gravel, sand, or rocky material. While this plant readily adapts to more fertile loamy soil, it is typically found on more barren ground because of the reduced competition from other kinds of ground vegetation. Most growth and development occurs during the spring and the first half of summer; this plant has a C3 metabolism. The hard seeds may lie in the ground for several years before they germinate.
Range & Habitat: Western Marbleseed is found in the western half of Illinois and at the Shawnee Hills in the southern section of the state (see Distribution Map). It is native to the state and uncommon. Illinois lies along the eastern range-limit of this species. Western Marbleseed has a rather large range that extends across the Great Plains and into some of the western states. In Illinois, habitats for this species includes upland sand prairies, upland gravel prairies, hill prairies, upland savannas, rocky glades, and upland pastures. This plant is normally found in high quality natural areas, although it appears to thrive better when there are occasional wildfires or cattle grazing.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by bumblebees. Other insect visitors of the flowers include honeybees, Halictid bees, ants, and true bugs (Williams, 1998). Both nectar and pollen are available as floral rewards. Other insects feed on the foliage, stems, sap, and other parts of Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle). Adult flea beetles (Epitrix spp., Longitarsus spp.) feed on the leaves, while their larvae feed on the roots. One species, the Marbleseed Flea Beetle (Longitarsus subrufus), is oligophagous on Marbleseed. Other insect feeders include polyphagous stink bugs that feed on the sap of the stems, stem-boring larvae of gall flies (Neolasioptera spp.), and pollen-feeding larvae of a sap beetle (Afrogethes saevus). Species that feed on sap from the leaves include the Two-striped Planthopper (Acanalonia bivittata), Meadow Spittlebug (Philaenus spumarius), and Girdled Leafhopper (Aphrodes bicincta). The larvae of a moth, the Marbleseed Leafminer (Acrocercops pnosmodiella), is oligophagous on marbleseed. Larvae of another moth, the Streaked Ethmia Moth (Ethmia longimaculella longimaculella), feed on the leaves of marbleseed and puccoons (Lithospermum spp.). Larvae of some polyphagous tiger moths and larvae of a polyphagous butterfly, the Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui), also feed on the leaves marbleseed. For more information, see Williams (1998), Powell (1973), and Needham et al. (1928). The foliage of marbleseed is not a preferred source of food for mammalian herbivores because of its bristly hairs. This plant usually becomes more abundant in upland pastures that are occasionally grazed by cattle (Williams, 1997). Like other species in the Borage family, the foliage of marbleseed may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are toxic to the liver.
Photographic Location: The wildflower garden of the webmaster in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Western Marbleseed is another plant that is native to Illinois prairies. Its flowers are somewhat odd-looking because of their closed corollas. The taxonomy of marbleseed (Onosmodium) has been unstable and the different species, subspecies, and/or varieties can be difficult to distinguish from each other, especially when their nutlets are unavailable for observation. For example, Western Marbleseed has been classified as Onosmodium occidentale, Onosmodium molle occidentale, Onosmodium bejariense occidentale, and even Lithospermum occidentale. Another marbleseed that has been reported from Illinois, Rough Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle hispidissimum), has a more eastern distribution and its nutlets have conspicuous ring-like constrictions near their bases, unlike Western Marbleseed. The typical variety, Soft-haired Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle molle), apparently doesn't occur in Illinois. It has softer foliage than the preceding varieties of this species, and its nutlets are conspicuously pitted. Another variety of this species, Bexar Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle bejariense), has corolla lobes with longer and more tapered tips than the preceding varieties. This variety is native to Texas. According to Mackenzie (1905), Bexar Marbleseed has smaller nutlets (about 3 mm. in length) that have slight to strong ring-like constrictions near their bases. Yet another variety, Glabrous-stemmed Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle subsetosus), has stems that are glabrous to sparsely hairy. It is found in a few states in the south-central region of the United States.
Each flower has a white corolla that is ½–¾" long, a hairy green calyx with 5 slender lobes, 5 inserted stamens, and a pistil with a strongly exerted white style. The corolla is cylindrical-angular in shape, becoming slightly and gradually wider toward its tip. At the tip of the corolla, there are 5 triangular lobes that extend outward and inward, effectively closing off the opening of the corolla, except for the exerted style. These lobes are often tinted green or yellow. The outer sides of the corolla are densely canescent, except where its lobes occur; the latter are hairy throughout. The lobes of the calyx are linear-lanceolate to linear-oblong in shape. Including its lobes, the calyx is about two-thirds as long as the corolla. The pedicels of the flowers are up to ¼" long (rarely longer); they are whitish green, terete, appressed-pubescent, and covered with appressed to slightly spreading hairs. At the bases of these pedicels, there are solitary bracts up to 1" long that resemble the leaves. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer, lasting about 3 weeks. There is no noticeable floral scent. Afterwards, the raceme uncoils itself and becomes more straight and erect; each flower is replaced by 0-4 nutlets (often, there is only a single nutlet per flower). Mature nutlets are 3.5–4.5 mm. long, 2.5–3.5 mm. across, and ovoid in shape; their tips are bluntly acute, while their bottoms are more or less truncate and discolored. There is no ring-like constriction near the base of each nutlet. The sides of these nutlets are pale brown to white and either dull or shiny; they are usually devoid of small pits, although sometimes a few scattered pits may occur. The nutlets are also quite hard. The root system consists of a deep taproot. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and soil containing gravel, sand, or rocky material. While this plant readily adapts to more fertile loamy soil, it is typically found on more barren ground because of the reduced competition from other kinds of ground vegetation. Most growth and development occurs during the spring and the first half of summer; this plant has a C3 metabolism. The hard seeds may lie in the ground for several years before they germinate.
Range & Habitat: Western Marbleseed is found in the western half of Illinois and at the Shawnee Hills in the southern section of the state (see Distribution Map). It is native to the state and uncommon. Illinois lies along the eastern range-limit of this species. Western Marbleseed has a rather large range that extends across the Great Plains and into some of the western states. In Illinois, habitats for this species includes upland sand prairies, upland gravel prairies, hill prairies, upland savannas, rocky glades, and upland pastures. This plant is normally found in high quality natural areas, although it appears to thrive better when there are occasional wildfires or cattle grazing.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by bumblebees. Other insect visitors of the flowers include honeybees, Halictid bees, ants, and true bugs (Williams, 1998). Both nectar and pollen are available as floral rewards. Other insects feed on the foliage, stems, sap, and other parts of Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle). Adult flea beetles (Epitrix spp., Longitarsus spp.) feed on the leaves, while their larvae feed on the roots. One species, the Marbleseed Flea Beetle (Longitarsus subrufus), is oligophagous on Marbleseed. Other insect feeders include polyphagous stink bugs that feed on the sap of the stems, stem-boring larvae of gall flies (Neolasioptera spp.), and pollen-feeding larvae of a sap beetle (Afrogethes saevus). Species that feed on sap from the leaves include the Two-striped Planthopper (Acanalonia bivittata), Meadow Spittlebug (Philaenus spumarius), and Girdled Leafhopper (Aphrodes bicincta). The larvae of a moth, the Marbleseed Leafminer (Acrocercops pnosmodiella), is oligophagous on marbleseed. Larvae of another moth, the Streaked Ethmia Moth (Ethmia longimaculella longimaculella), feed on the leaves of marbleseed and puccoons (Lithospermum spp.). Larvae of some polyphagous tiger moths and larvae of a polyphagous butterfly, the Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui), also feed on the leaves marbleseed. For more information, see Williams (1998), Powell (1973), and Needham et al. (1928). The foliage of marbleseed is not a preferred source of food for mammalian herbivores because of its bristly hairs. This plant usually becomes more abundant in upland pastures that are occasionally grazed by cattle (Williams, 1997). Like other species in the Borage family, the foliage of marbleseed may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are toxic to the liver.
Photographic Location: The wildflower garden of the webmaster in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Western Marbleseed is another plant that is native to Illinois prairies. Its flowers are somewhat odd-looking because of their closed corollas. The taxonomy of marbleseed (Onosmodium) has been unstable and the different species, subspecies, and/or varieties can be difficult to distinguish from each other, especially when their nutlets are unavailable for observation. For example, Western Marbleseed has been classified as Onosmodium occidentale, Onosmodium molle occidentale, Onosmodium bejariense occidentale, and even Lithospermum occidentale. Another marbleseed that has been reported from Illinois, Rough Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle hispidissimum), has a more eastern distribution and its nutlets have conspicuous ring-like constrictions near their bases, unlike Western Marbleseed. The typical variety, Soft-haired Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle molle), apparently doesn't occur in Illinois. It has softer foliage than the preceding varieties of this species, and its nutlets are conspicuously pitted. Another variety of this species, Bexar Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle bejariense), has corolla lobes with longer and more tapered tips than the preceding varieties. This variety is native to Texas. According to Mackenzie (1905), Bexar Marbleseed has smaller nutlets (about 3 mm. in length) that have slight to strong ring-like constrictions near their bases. Yet another variety, Glabrous-stemmed Marbleseed (Onosmodium molle subsetosus), has stems that are glabrous to sparsely hairy. It is found in a few states in the south-central region of the United States.
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Miss Chen
2018年02月01日
Description: This is a herbaceous perennial plant, producing one or more erect stems that are ¾–2' tall. Each stem is light green to reddish purple, terete, and unbranched below the inflorescence; it is usually glabrous below and sparsely short-hairy above. Several alternate leaves occur along each stem, becoming significantly smaller in size as they ascend; they are up to 6" long and 1/3" (1 cm.) across (rarely larger). Relative to the stem, the blade orientation of lower leaves is widely spreading to ascending, while the blade orientation of middle to upper leaves is ascending. The leaf blades are linear-oblanceolate, linear-elliptic, and linear in shape; they are entire (toothless) to sparingly and shallowly toothed along the sides of their outer margins. The upper and lower surfaces of leaf blades are medium green and glabrous. The lower leaves taper gradually into petiole-like bases, while the upper leaves are sessile. Each stem terminates in a flat-headed panicle of flowerheads spanning up to 6" across; the branching structure of this inflorescence is corymbiform (corymb-like). The branches of this inflorescence are light green to reddish purple and sparsely short-hairy. Sometimes there are solitary leafy bracts where these branches diverge; these bracts are up to 1" long and linear in shape.
Each flowerhead spans about ¾–1" across, consisting of 10-25 pistillate ray florets that surround numerous perfect disk florets. The petaloid rays (ligules) are widely spreading, elliptic or oblong-elliptic in shape, and bright white; sometimes they are slightly notched at their tips. The corollas of the disk florets are about 4 mm. long, short-tubular in shape, 5-lobed, and dull white; their conjoined stamens are yellow. The base of the flowerhead is surrounded by appressed phyllaries (floral scales) that are arranged in about 4 overlapping series. These phyllaries are about 4 mm. long, linear-oblong to oblong in shape, light to medium green, and glabrous; their margins are a deeper shade of green above than below. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early autumn, lasting about 1-2 months for a local population of plants. Afterwards, the flowerheads become light brown and their florets are replaced by small achenes with white tufts of hair. Individual achenes are about 1-1.5 mm. long, bullet-shaped, and glabrous; their apices are truncate where the tufts of hair occur. The root system consists of a branching caudex.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist to dry conditions, and calcareous barren ground that is sandy, gravelly, or rocky. This plant can be cultivated in rock gardens.
Range & Habitat: The native White Goldenrod is uncommon in northern Illinois and sandy areas of mid-central Illinois, while in the rest of the state it is rare or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include hill prairies, gravel prairies, sand prairies, and moist sand flats (pannes) along Lake Michigan. Other habitats outside of Illinois include alvars (limestone pavements) along the Great Lakes, rocky cliffs, rocky crevices, river outcrop prairies, sandy Jack Pine plains, and fens. This plant is found in high quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: Very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. A rare butterfly, Karner's Blue (Lycaeides melissa samuelis), a rare skipper, Poweshiek Skipperling (Oarisma poweshiek), and the common Pennsylvania Soldier Beetle (Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus) have been observed to visit the flowerheads of White Goldenrod (Oligoneuron album); see Grundel & Pavlovic (2000), Semmler (2010), and Williams (2006). The butterfly and skipper feed on nectar, while the soldier beetle probably feeds on pollen. Many other insects undoubtedly visit its flowerheads as well.
Photographic Location: A moist sand flat near Lake Michigan at Illinois Beach State Park in NE Illinois.
Comments: This goldenrod is very unusual because it looks like an aster, and it was even classified as an aster, Aster ptarmicoides, for many years. Other scientific names of White Goldenrod (Oligoneuron album) include Solidago ptarmicoides and Unamia alba. In spite of its deceptive appearance, it was discovered that this species forms naturally occurring hybrids with such flat-topped goldenrods as Oligoneuron rigidum, Oligoneuron riddellii, and Oligoneuron ohiense. In contrast, there is no evidence that it can form hybrids with other goldenrods (Solidago spp.) and asters (Aster spp.). Several common names have been used to refer to this plant, including Prairie Goldenrod, Stiff Aster, Stiff Goldenrod (also used for Oligoneuron rigidum), White Upland Aster, White Upland Goldenrod, and White Flat-topped Goldenrod.
Each flowerhead spans about ¾–1" across, consisting of 10-25 pistillate ray florets that surround numerous perfect disk florets. The petaloid rays (ligules) are widely spreading, elliptic or oblong-elliptic in shape, and bright white; sometimes they are slightly notched at their tips. The corollas of the disk florets are about 4 mm. long, short-tubular in shape, 5-lobed, and dull white; their conjoined stamens are yellow. The base of the flowerhead is surrounded by appressed phyllaries (floral scales) that are arranged in about 4 overlapping series. These phyllaries are about 4 mm. long, linear-oblong to oblong in shape, light to medium green, and glabrous; their margins are a deeper shade of green above than below. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early autumn, lasting about 1-2 months for a local population of plants. Afterwards, the flowerheads become light brown and their florets are replaced by small achenes with white tufts of hair. Individual achenes are about 1-1.5 mm. long, bullet-shaped, and glabrous; their apices are truncate where the tufts of hair occur. The root system consists of a branching caudex.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist to dry conditions, and calcareous barren ground that is sandy, gravelly, or rocky. This plant can be cultivated in rock gardens.
Range & Habitat: The native White Goldenrod is uncommon in northern Illinois and sandy areas of mid-central Illinois, while in the rest of the state it is rare or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include hill prairies, gravel prairies, sand prairies, and moist sand flats (pannes) along Lake Michigan. Other habitats outside of Illinois include alvars (limestone pavements) along the Great Lakes, rocky cliffs, rocky crevices, river outcrop prairies, sandy Jack Pine plains, and fens. This plant is found in high quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: Very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. A rare butterfly, Karner's Blue (Lycaeides melissa samuelis), a rare skipper, Poweshiek Skipperling (Oarisma poweshiek), and the common Pennsylvania Soldier Beetle (Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus) have been observed to visit the flowerheads of White Goldenrod (Oligoneuron album); see Grundel & Pavlovic (2000), Semmler (2010), and Williams (2006). The butterfly and skipper feed on nectar, while the soldier beetle probably feeds on pollen. Many other insects undoubtedly visit its flowerheads as well.
Photographic Location: A moist sand flat near Lake Michigan at Illinois Beach State Park in NE Illinois.
Comments: This goldenrod is very unusual because it looks like an aster, and it was even classified as an aster, Aster ptarmicoides, for many years. Other scientific names of White Goldenrod (Oligoneuron album) include Solidago ptarmicoides and Unamia alba. In spite of its deceptive appearance, it was discovered that this species forms naturally occurring hybrids with such flat-topped goldenrods as Oligoneuron rigidum, Oligoneuron riddellii, and Oligoneuron ohiense. In contrast, there is no evidence that it can form hybrids with other goldenrods (Solidago spp.) and asters (Aster spp.). Several common names have been used to refer to this plant, including Prairie Goldenrod, Stiff Aster, Stiff Goldenrod (also used for Oligoneuron rigidum), White Upland Aster, White Upland Goldenrod, and White Flat-topped Goldenrod.
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Miss Chen
2018年01月31日
Description: This perennial plant is is usually ½-2' tall. The light green stems are terete, covered with appressed pubescence, and either erect or sprawling. The central stem is usually little branched, except near the apex of the plant, where the flowers occur. The alternate leaves are up to 2-3" long and ¾" across. They are lanceolate, elliptic, or oblanceolate in shape, while their margins are smooth (entire), dentate, or shallowly pinnatifid. Some leaves may have paired basal lobes. The leaves are either sessile against their stems or they have petioles up to 1" in length. Both the upper and lower leaf surfaces are light to medium green and either glabrous or sparsely appressed-pubescent.
About 1-3 flowers develop from the axils of the upper leaves. The appressed-pubescent flower buds are rather long and spindle-shaped. The showy flowers open up during the daytime, and they are 2-3½" across. Each flower has 4 broad petals, 8 stamens with white or yellow anthers, and a long white stigma that is 4-cleft at its tip, resembling a white cross. These flowers are usually pinkish white; they have fine pink lines that radiate outward from their throats across the rather wrinkled petals. The throats of these flowers are usually yellow. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer, lasting about a month, although individual flowers are short-lived. The flowers are replaced by elongated 4-angled capsules that contain numerous seeds. The root system is highly rhizomatous, forming sizable colonies at some sites.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and dry conditions. This plant often grows on poor, rocky soil, but it can tolerate other kinds of soil as well. This plant can spread aggressively at dry, sunny locations, and it becomes rather ragged in appearance after the blooming period is over.
Range & Habitat: Showy Evening Primrose is widely scattered across Illinois, where it has been reported most often from the Chicago area, central Illinois, and SW Illinois (see Distribution Map). It is native to the Great Plains and other areas that lie west of Illinois. Habitats include upland areas of degraded prairies, glades, old homesteads and abandoned fields, areas along railroads and roadsides, and dry waste areas. In Illinois, Showy Evening Primrose occurs primarily in disturbed areas. Many local populations are undoubtedly cultivated plants that have managed to escape for one reason or another. This species has been naturalized in Illinois for a long time.
Faunal Associations: Small bees collect pollen from the flowers, but they are unlikely to pollinate them. The size and length of the stamens and style suggest that hummingbirds, large butterflies, or day-flying Sphinx moths are more likely to pollinate the flowers while seeking nectar, although this is somewhat speculative. Some insects feed destructively on the foliage and other parts of Showy Evening Primrose and other Oenothera spp. (Evening Primrose species). These insect species include the flea beetles Altica texana and Altica polita, the aphids Anoecia oenotherae and Aphis oestlundi, the weevil Acanthoscelidius acephalus, and the larvae of several moths. Among these moths, there are several Mompha spp. that feed on the seed capsules or bore through the stems, the flower-eating Schinia florida (Primrose Moth), and the foliage-eating Proserpinus juanita (Green-Banded Day Sphinx). The foliage is occasionally browsed by various mammalian herbivores, including rabbits, groundhogs, deer, and livestock.
Photographic Location: A flower garden in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Considering the size of Showy Evening Primrose as a plant, the flowers seem impossibly large. They are also very bright and showy. For this reason, this species is often cultivated in flower gardens in areas far outside its normal range in the Great Plains and southwestern states. It can be distinguished from other Oenothera spp. by its large pinkish white flowers. Other species in this genus typically have yellow flowers.
About 1-3 flowers develop from the axils of the upper leaves. The appressed-pubescent flower buds are rather long and spindle-shaped. The showy flowers open up during the daytime, and they are 2-3½" across. Each flower has 4 broad petals, 8 stamens with white or yellow anthers, and a long white stigma that is 4-cleft at its tip, resembling a white cross. These flowers are usually pinkish white; they have fine pink lines that radiate outward from their throats across the rather wrinkled petals. The throats of these flowers are usually yellow. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer, lasting about a month, although individual flowers are short-lived. The flowers are replaced by elongated 4-angled capsules that contain numerous seeds. The root system is highly rhizomatous, forming sizable colonies at some sites.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and dry conditions. This plant often grows on poor, rocky soil, but it can tolerate other kinds of soil as well. This plant can spread aggressively at dry, sunny locations, and it becomes rather ragged in appearance after the blooming period is over.
Range & Habitat: Showy Evening Primrose is widely scattered across Illinois, where it has been reported most often from the Chicago area, central Illinois, and SW Illinois (see Distribution Map). It is native to the Great Plains and other areas that lie west of Illinois. Habitats include upland areas of degraded prairies, glades, old homesteads and abandoned fields, areas along railroads and roadsides, and dry waste areas. In Illinois, Showy Evening Primrose occurs primarily in disturbed areas. Many local populations are undoubtedly cultivated plants that have managed to escape for one reason or another. This species has been naturalized in Illinois for a long time.
Faunal Associations: Small bees collect pollen from the flowers, but they are unlikely to pollinate them. The size and length of the stamens and style suggest that hummingbirds, large butterflies, or day-flying Sphinx moths are more likely to pollinate the flowers while seeking nectar, although this is somewhat speculative. Some insects feed destructively on the foliage and other parts of Showy Evening Primrose and other Oenothera spp. (Evening Primrose species). These insect species include the flea beetles Altica texana and Altica polita, the aphids Anoecia oenotherae and Aphis oestlundi, the weevil Acanthoscelidius acephalus, and the larvae of several moths. Among these moths, there are several Mompha spp. that feed on the seed capsules or bore through the stems, the flower-eating Schinia florida (Primrose Moth), and the foliage-eating Proserpinus juanita (Green-Banded Day Sphinx). The foliage is occasionally browsed by various mammalian herbivores, including rabbits, groundhogs, deer, and livestock.
Photographic Location: A flower garden in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Considering the size of Showy Evening Primrose as a plant, the flowers seem impossibly large. They are also very bright and showy. For this reason, this species is often cultivated in flower gardens in areas far outside its normal range in the Great Plains and southwestern states. It can be distinguished from other Oenothera spp. by its large pinkish white flowers. Other species in this genus typically have yellow flowers.
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Miss Chen
2018年01月31日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is up to 2' tall and sometimes bushy. The stems are covered with conspicuous white hairs. The sessile alternate leaves are up to 3" long and 1" wide, lanceolate or ovate, with smooth to slightly dentate margins. They are pubescent on both the upper and lower surfaces. The inflorescence at the top of the plant consists of a short cluster of flowers or hairy buds. These flowers are bright yellow and individually about 2" across. Each one has four large petals, large showy stamens, and fine white or transparent lines that radiate outward from the center of the flower. These lines function as nectar guides, and are more visible to insects than humans in the ultraviolet spectrum. The blooming period occurs during late spring or early summer and lasts about a month. The flowers bloom during the day and have a pleasant fragrance. The seeds are without tufts of hairs, while the root system is highly rhizomatous. In disturbed areas, colonies of plants are readily formed. The new growth during early spring and older foliage during the fall often acquire reddish tints.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist conditions, and a loamy soil with high organic content. This plant develops quickly during the spring and flowers readily. Later in the year, it becomes dormant and less attractive in appearance, but can tolerate some drought. This plant is easy to grow if it is not too dry, and can spread aggressively.
Range & Habitat: The native Prairie Sundrops occurs occasionally in the majority of counties in Illinois; it is uncommon or absent in central and NW Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include moist to mesic black soil prairies, edges of pothole marshes, abandoned pastures, and prairie remnants along railroads.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated primarily by long-tongued bees, butterflies, and skippers. Halictid bees and Syrphid flies often visit the flowers, but they are attracted by the abundant pollen and cannot be considered very effective at pollination. Among the long-tongued bees, are such visitors as Little Carpenter bees and large Leaf-Cutting bees, which suck nectar or collect pollen. The foliage is eaten occasionally by rabbits, and probably other mammalian herbivores.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the webmaster's wildflower garden in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This lovely plant should be grown more often. During the 19th century, this was a more popular garden plant, but it has since passed from favor and is not widely available. Prairie Sundrops resembles Oenothera fruticosa, but differs from the latter by its hairy leaves. The latter species has a range that lies east and south of Illinois, and is widely available through horticultural sources.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist conditions, and a loamy soil with high organic content. This plant develops quickly during the spring and flowers readily. Later in the year, it becomes dormant and less attractive in appearance, but can tolerate some drought. This plant is easy to grow if it is not too dry, and can spread aggressively.
Range & Habitat: The native Prairie Sundrops occurs occasionally in the majority of counties in Illinois; it is uncommon or absent in central and NW Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include moist to mesic black soil prairies, edges of pothole marshes, abandoned pastures, and prairie remnants along railroads.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated primarily by long-tongued bees, butterflies, and skippers. Halictid bees and Syrphid flies often visit the flowers, but they are attracted by the abundant pollen and cannot be considered very effective at pollination. Among the long-tongued bees, are such visitors as Little Carpenter bees and large Leaf-Cutting bees, which suck nectar or collect pollen. The foliage is eaten occasionally by rabbits, and probably other mammalian herbivores.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the webmaster's wildflower garden in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This lovely plant should be grown more often. During the 19th century, this was a more popular garden plant, but it has since passed from favor and is not widely available. Prairie Sundrops resembles Oenothera fruticosa, but differs from the latter by its hairy leaves. The latter species has a range that lies east and south of Illinois, and is widely available through horticultural sources.
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Miss Chen
2018年01月31日
Description: This perennial wildflower is 8-24" long, unbranched or sparingly branched, and erect to ascending. The stems are light green to pale red and terete; they are often pubescent above, becoming glabrous below. The alternate leaves are up to 2½" long and ¾" across; they are medium green, glabrous to slightly pubescent, and narrowly ovate or elliptic. The base of each leaf is sessile, while its tip is blunt. In addition to the alternate leaves, the basal leaves are often present at the bottom of each plant. The central stem (and any lateral stems) terminates in a leafy spike of several flowers; it is usually several inches long. Individual flowers usually alternate along the spike, although sometimes they occur in pairs. At the base of each flower, there is a leafy bract about ½–1" long that is linear-oblong. The central stalk of the spike is often pubescent.
Each flower is about ½–¾" across, consisting of 4 yellow petals, 4 green or reddish green calyx lobes, a slender calyx tube that is often reddish, and an ovary that is located below the calyx tube. There are also several yellow stamens and a central style with a cross-shaped stigma. The well-rounded petals are often slightly notched at their tips. Each petal has a central vein, from which several lateral veins radiate from both sides; these veins are pale-colored and rather inconspicuous. The calyx lobes are lanceolate in the shape and pubescent on their outer surfaces; they eventually hang downward from the petals and turn yellow. The calyx tube is about the same length or a little shorter than the ovary. The blooming period occurs from early to mid-summer and lasts about a month; the flowers are diurnal. After the blooming period, each fertile flower is replaced by a pubescent seed capsule about ½" long; it is ovoid-obovoid with 4 strongly winged margins along its sides that are reddish green. Each capsule contains numerous seeds.
Distribution MapCultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, moist to dry-mesic conditions, and sandy or gravelly soil.
Range & Habitat: Small Sundrops is a boreal species that is restricted to NE Illinois, where it is native. This plant is rare in Illinois and state-listed as 'endangered.' Habitats include sand prairies, gravel prairies, sandy savannas and open woodlands, and abandoned sandy fields. In some parts of its range, this wildflower is found in damp depressions of various kinds. Occasional wildfires and brush-removal are beneficial because they reduce competition from woody vegetation.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated by bees, skippers, and butterflies; a Halictid bee, Lasioglossum oenotherae, is an oligolege (specialist pollinator) of Oenothera spp. These insects suck nectar from the flowers, and some bees also collect pollen for their larvae. There are several insects that feed on Oenothera spp. They include the caterpillars of Eudryas unio (Pearly Wood Nymph), Schinia florida (Primrose Moth), and some Mompha spp. (Momphid Moths). Other insect feeders include the seed-eating weevils Tyloderma aereum and Tyloderma foveolatum, the weevil Chalcodermus collaris, and the aphid Anoecia oenotherae. The seeds of Oenothera spp. are eaten to a minor extent by the Eastern Goldfinch and Mourning Dove, while the foliage is sometimes eaten by White-Tailed Deer.
Photographic Location: A nature preserve in Cook County, Illinois. The photograph was taken by Lisa Culp (Copyright © 2009).
Comments: Small Sundrops is a pretty little plant that blooms during the day. It resembles the often cultivated Oenothera fruticosa (Common Sundrops), but this latter plant has larger flowers (1" across or more) that bloom together in rather flat-topped clusters. In contrast, the flowers of Small Sundrops bloom along a more elongated floral spike. Other Oenothera spp. have seed capsules that lack the strongly winged margins that are characteristic of Small Sundrops' seed capsules. Some Oenothera spp. have night-blooming flowers that are pollinated by Sphinx moths; they are commonly referred to as 'Evening Primroses' rather than Sundrops.
Each flower is about ½–¾" across, consisting of 4 yellow petals, 4 green or reddish green calyx lobes, a slender calyx tube that is often reddish, and an ovary that is located below the calyx tube. There are also several yellow stamens and a central style with a cross-shaped stigma. The well-rounded petals are often slightly notched at their tips. Each petal has a central vein, from which several lateral veins radiate from both sides; these veins are pale-colored and rather inconspicuous. The calyx lobes are lanceolate in the shape and pubescent on their outer surfaces; they eventually hang downward from the petals and turn yellow. The calyx tube is about the same length or a little shorter than the ovary. The blooming period occurs from early to mid-summer and lasts about a month; the flowers are diurnal. After the blooming period, each fertile flower is replaced by a pubescent seed capsule about ½" long; it is ovoid-obovoid with 4 strongly winged margins along its sides that are reddish green. Each capsule contains numerous seeds.
Distribution MapCultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, moist to dry-mesic conditions, and sandy or gravelly soil.
Range & Habitat: Small Sundrops is a boreal species that is restricted to NE Illinois, where it is native. This plant is rare in Illinois and state-listed as 'endangered.' Habitats include sand prairies, gravel prairies, sandy savannas and open woodlands, and abandoned sandy fields. In some parts of its range, this wildflower is found in damp depressions of various kinds. Occasional wildfires and brush-removal are beneficial because they reduce competition from woody vegetation.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated by bees, skippers, and butterflies; a Halictid bee, Lasioglossum oenotherae, is an oligolege (specialist pollinator) of Oenothera spp. These insects suck nectar from the flowers, and some bees also collect pollen for their larvae. There are several insects that feed on Oenothera spp. They include the caterpillars of Eudryas unio (Pearly Wood Nymph), Schinia florida (Primrose Moth), and some Mompha spp. (Momphid Moths). Other insect feeders include the seed-eating weevils Tyloderma aereum and Tyloderma foveolatum, the weevil Chalcodermus collaris, and the aphid Anoecia oenotherae. The seeds of Oenothera spp. are eaten to a minor extent by the Eastern Goldfinch and Mourning Dove, while the foliage is sometimes eaten by White-Tailed Deer.
Photographic Location: A nature preserve in Cook County, Illinois. The photograph was taken by Lisa Culp (Copyright © 2009).
Comments: Small Sundrops is a pretty little plant that blooms during the day. It resembles the often cultivated Oenothera fruticosa (Common Sundrops), but this latter plant has larger flowers (1" across or more) that bloom together in rather flat-topped clusters. In contrast, the flowers of Small Sundrops bloom along a more elongated floral spike. Other Oenothera spp. have seed capsules that lack the strongly winged margins that are characteristic of Small Sundrops' seed capsules. Some Oenothera spp. have night-blooming flowers that are pollinated by Sphinx moths; they are commonly referred to as 'Evening Primroses' rather than Sundrops.
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Miss Chen
2018年01月31日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is up to 1½' tall, and unbranched or sparingly so. The short stems are more or less erect. The alternate leaves are up to 6" long and 1" across; they are rather densely crowded along the stems. Their margins are smooth, or slightly dentate with widely spaced teeth; they often curve upward. The leaves are narrowly lanceolate or oblanceolate, with white veins; the upper surface of young leaves is often shiny. Lower leaves have petioles up to 1" long, while upper leaves are often sessile.
The large flowers develop singly from the upper axils of the leaves. Each flower has a winged capsule containing the ovaries that is 1½–2" long; it is located adjacent to the leaf axil. A calyx tube from 2-6" connects the capsule to the rest of the flower. At the apex of the calyx tube, the flower has 4 yellow petals; it spans about 5" across. These petals are subtended by a division of the calyx into lanceolate tips that curve downward; these are purple-spotted. At the throat of the flower, are 8 stamens with linear anthers, and a long style with a stigma that is cleft into a cross-like shape. These reproductive parts are yellow. The flower buds are about 1-4" long, depending on their maturity, and quite conspicuous. They are purple-spotted and orbicular, tapering at both ends. The flowers open during the evening and close the following morning, each one lasting a single day. The blooming period occurs from early to mid-summer, and lasts about 2 months. There is a mild floral fragrance. The seeds are irregularly shaped and crested. The root system consists of a deep taproot. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, dry conditions, and lean soil that is either rocky or sandy. Most growth occurs during the first half of the year, afterwhich it forms seeds and becomes dormant (although it doesn't necessarily die down). This plant will grow in more fertile soil if it is well-drained, but has difficulty competing with taller plants.
Range & Habitat: In Illinois, the native Missouri Evening Primrose has been observed in natural habitat in only St. Clair county, where it may be extirpated (see Distribution Map). Habitats include hill prairies and limestone glades. Outside of the state, this plant is also observed in dry prairies and barrens with sparse vegetation; these habitats often have gravelly or sandy soil. Missouri Evening Primrose is often grown in flower gardens.
Faunal Associations: Sphinx moths pollinate the flowers while seeking nectar. Various bees may visit the flowers to collect pollen during the early morning or evening, but they are too small to be effective pollinators. Little information is available about this plant's relationships to birds or mammals.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Crystal Lake Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Missouri Evening Primrose has striking flowers that are quite large for the size of the plant. It can be confused with no other plant that occurs (or used to occur) in the natural habitats of Illinois.
The large flowers develop singly from the upper axils of the leaves. Each flower has a winged capsule containing the ovaries that is 1½–2" long; it is located adjacent to the leaf axil. A calyx tube from 2-6" connects the capsule to the rest of the flower. At the apex of the calyx tube, the flower has 4 yellow petals; it spans about 5" across. These petals are subtended by a division of the calyx into lanceolate tips that curve downward; these are purple-spotted. At the throat of the flower, are 8 stamens with linear anthers, and a long style with a stigma that is cleft into a cross-like shape. These reproductive parts are yellow. The flower buds are about 1-4" long, depending on their maturity, and quite conspicuous. They are purple-spotted and orbicular, tapering at both ends. The flowers open during the evening and close the following morning, each one lasting a single day. The blooming period occurs from early to mid-summer, and lasts about 2 months. There is a mild floral fragrance. The seeds are irregularly shaped and crested. The root system consists of a deep taproot. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, dry conditions, and lean soil that is either rocky or sandy. Most growth occurs during the first half of the year, afterwhich it forms seeds and becomes dormant (although it doesn't necessarily die down). This plant will grow in more fertile soil if it is well-drained, but has difficulty competing with taller plants.
Range & Habitat: In Illinois, the native Missouri Evening Primrose has been observed in natural habitat in only St. Clair county, where it may be extirpated (see Distribution Map). Habitats include hill prairies and limestone glades. Outside of the state, this plant is also observed in dry prairies and barrens with sparse vegetation; these habitats often have gravelly or sandy soil. Missouri Evening Primrose is often grown in flower gardens.
Faunal Associations: Sphinx moths pollinate the flowers while seeking nectar. Various bees may visit the flowers to collect pollen during the early morning or evening, but they are too small to be effective pollinators. Little information is available about this plant's relationships to birds or mammals.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Crystal Lake Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Missouri Evening Primrose has striking flowers that are quite large for the size of the plant. It can be confused with no other plant that occurs (or used to occur) in the natural habitats of Illinois.
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Miss Chen
2018年01月31日
Description: This plant is an annual about ½–2' long that often sprawls across the ground, or it is weakly ascending (particularly near the tips of its branches). Small plants are usually unbranched, while larger plants produce lateral stems occasionally. Each stem is terete, light green, and more or less hairy. Along each stem, there are alternate leaves up to 4" longFlower & Upper Leaves and 1" across. The leaves are oblong-lanceolate to oblong-oblanceolate and pinnatifid; they are hairy, although less so along their upper surfaces. The middle to upper leaves are sessile, while the lower leaves have short petioles. From the axils of the middle to upper leaves, there develops individual flowers that are sessile. Each flower spans about 1" across when it is fully open, consisting of 4 yellow petals, a narrowly cylindrical calyx (about 2" long) with 4 narrowly triangular lobe-segments at its apex, a narrowly cylindrical ovary/fruit (about 1–1½" long), 8 stamens, and a central united style with cross-shaped stigmata. The flowers bloom at night and become closed during the morning. Even though it appears that each flower has a stalk-like pedicel about 3" long, this is actually the narrowly cylindrical calyx and ovary/fruit of the flower. The lobe-segments of the calyx hang downward. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer and lasts about 1½–2 months. Only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. After pollination of a flower, the entire calyx becomes pale salmon pink and falls off the fruit. The cylindrical fruit (or developing seed capsule) is straight to slightly curved and ascends upward; it is terete, slightly 4-ribbed, and more or less pubescent along its length. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself; the surfaces of the small seeds are pitted.
Cultivation: The preference is full sunlight, mesic to dry conditions, and sandy soil where the ground vegetation is low and sparse. Most growth and development occurs during the cool weather of spring.
Range & Habitat: Ragged Evening Primrose is occasional throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map), where it is native. Habitats include sand prairies, hill prairies, sandy fields and meadows, areas along railroads, roadsides, and waste areas. Usually this wildflower is found in disturbed sandy habitats, although it is occasionally found in barren gravelly areas. It is somewhat weedy.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated by Sphinx moths and, to a lesser extent, by bumblebees, honeybees, and other long-tongued bees. Small bees and Syrphid flies may also visit the flowers, where they collect or feed on the pollen, but these latter insects are less effective at cross-pollination. Insects that feed on Ragged Evening Primrose and other Oenothera spp. include several aphids, flea beetles, weevils, moths, and other insects (see the Insect Table for a listing of these species). The Mourning Dove has been observed eating the seeds, while the Cottontail Rabbit and White-Tailed Deer often browse on the foliage.
Photographic Location: A sandy meadow at the Heron Boardwalk in Vermilion County, Illinois. Because the photograph was taken during the early morning, the flower and foliage were still covered with dew; the flower is already beginning to close.
Comments: Because the flowers usually bloom at night, Ragged Evening Primrose is a fairly low and inconspicuous plant. These flowers are very similar in appearance to those of Oenothera biennis (Common Evening Primrose) and other species in this genus. It is primarily the pinnatifid shape of the leaves that sets Ragged Evening Primrose apart; they have conspicuous lateral lobes. The leaf-margins of other Oenothera spp. in Illinois are usually less wavy. Another common name of Oenothera laciniata is Cutleaf Evening Primrose.
Cultivation: The preference is full sunlight, mesic to dry conditions, and sandy soil where the ground vegetation is low and sparse. Most growth and development occurs during the cool weather of spring.
Range & Habitat: Ragged Evening Primrose is occasional throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map), where it is native. Habitats include sand prairies, hill prairies, sandy fields and meadows, areas along railroads, roadsides, and waste areas. Usually this wildflower is found in disturbed sandy habitats, although it is occasionally found in barren gravelly areas. It is somewhat weedy.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated by Sphinx moths and, to a lesser extent, by bumblebees, honeybees, and other long-tongued bees. Small bees and Syrphid flies may also visit the flowers, where they collect or feed on the pollen, but these latter insects are less effective at cross-pollination. Insects that feed on Ragged Evening Primrose and other Oenothera spp. include several aphids, flea beetles, weevils, moths, and other insects (see the Insect Table for a listing of these species). The Mourning Dove has been observed eating the seeds, while the Cottontail Rabbit and White-Tailed Deer often browse on the foliage.
Photographic Location: A sandy meadow at the Heron Boardwalk in Vermilion County, Illinois. Because the photograph was taken during the early morning, the flower and foliage were still covered with dew; the flower is already beginning to close.
Comments: Because the flowers usually bloom at night, Ragged Evening Primrose is a fairly low and inconspicuous plant. These flowers are very similar in appearance to those of Oenothera biennis (Common Evening Primrose) and other species in this genus. It is primarily the pinnatifid shape of the leaves that sets Ragged Evening Primrose apart; they have conspicuous lateral lobes. The leaf-margins of other Oenothera spp. in Illinois are usually less wavy. Another common name of Oenothera laciniata is Cutleaf Evening Primrose.
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Miss Chen
2018年01月30日
Description: This annual or biennial wildflower initially forms a low rosette of basal leaves spanning 3-6" across. It later bolts, developing little-branched flowering stalks about 1-2' tall (less often, up to 3' tall). The light green stems are densely covered with appressed white hairs. The alternate leaves are up to 2½" long and ½" across; they are ascending to widely spreading. Most leaves are sessile, although some lower leaves have short petioles. The leaf blades are linear-lanceolate, lanceolate, or oblong in shape; their margins are smooth or remotely dentate with barely perceptible teeth. Upper leaf surfaces are medium green and sparsely covered with appressed white hairs, while lower leaf surfaces are pale green and more densely covered with appressed white hairs.
The central stem terminates in a leafy spike of flowers about 3-9" long; secondary spikes of flowers may be produced from lower lateral stems. Like the central stem, the flowering stalk is light green and densely covered with appressed white hairs. Flowers and developing seed capsules are densely arranged around the stalk. Individual flowers span ½–1¼" across when they are fully open. Each flower has 4 yellow pointed petals, 4 linear sepals, a narrowly cylindrical calyx tube, 8 stamens, a central style (actually 4 united styles) with a cross-shaped stigma, and a sessile ovary. Individual petals and sepals are 1/4–5/8" (6-15 mm.) long; they are both deciduous. Pale thin lines radiate across the petals from the center of the flower – these function as nectar guides. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about 1½–3 months. The flowers bloom during the night and also on cloudy days. After individual flowers bloom, their ovaries begin to swell in size and become seed capsules. Individual seed capsules are up to ¾" long with a slightly curved and cylindrical shape; they are 4-celled and bluntly 4-lobed. The surface of each capsule is either glabrous or sparsely covered with appressed white hairs. Two rows of small seeds are contained in each cell of the capsule. Individual seeds are obovoid in shape. The root system consists of a taproot. This wildflower reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, dry-mesic to dry conditions, and sandy soil.
Range & Habitat: The native Cleland's Evening Primrose is occasional in sandy areas of northern and west-central Illinois, while elsewhere in the state it is rare or absent (see Distribution Map). The distribution map doesn't distinguish between Cleland's Evening Primrose and the more western Sand Evening Primrose (Oenothera rhombipetala); most observations are the former species. Habitats include upland sand prairies, sandy hill prairies, sand dunes, upland sandy savannas, abandoned sandy fields, areas along sandy paths, and areas along railroads. Slightly disturbed areas are preferred; occasional wildfires are beneficial in reducing the encroachment of woody vegetation.
Faunal Associations: The nocturnal flowers are pollinated by Sphinx moths; they are also visited by the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird and various long-tongued bees, including the oligolectic bees Lasioglossum oenotherae and Anthedonia compta. These visitors seek mostly nectar from the flowers, although some bees also collect pollen for their larvae. Various insects feed on the leaves, seed capsules, or plant juices of Cleland's Evening Primrose and similar species. These insect feeders include the caterpillars of several moths: Hyles lineata (White-Lined Sphinx), Proserpinus juanita (Green-Banded Day Sphinx), Schinia florida (Primrose Moth), Eudryas unio (Pearly Wood Nymph), Phtheochroa oenotherana (Tortricid Moth sp.), and two Mompha spp. (Momphid Moths). Other insect feeders include several flea beetles (Altica spp.), weevils (Tyloderma spp., Chalcoderma collaris, Acanthoscelidius acephalus), and aphids (Anoecia spp., Aphis oestlundi). White-Tailed Deer chomp off the flowering stalks of this wildflower (causing it to branch), while the Common Goldfinch eats the seeds to a minor extent. The foliage is also edible to cattle and other hoofed mammalian herbivores.
Photographic Location: A sandy hill prairie at Hooper Branch Savanna Nature Preserve in Iroquois County, Illinois.
Comments: On cloudy days, this can be a very showy wildflower. The petals of its flowers are unusual because they are bluntly pointed, rather than well-rounded. Cleland's Evening Primrose is very similar to the more western Oenothera rhombipetala (Sand Evening Primrose). Until recently, these two wildflowers were regarded as the same species. Sand Evening Primrose is more robust and its flowers are larger in size (1¼–2" across). However, some field specimens with mixed characteristics may be difficult to classify as one species or the other. Another common name for either of these two species is Four-Point Evening Primrose.
The central stem terminates in a leafy spike of flowers about 3-9" long; secondary spikes of flowers may be produced from lower lateral stems. Like the central stem, the flowering stalk is light green and densely covered with appressed white hairs. Flowers and developing seed capsules are densely arranged around the stalk. Individual flowers span ½–1¼" across when they are fully open. Each flower has 4 yellow pointed petals, 4 linear sepals, a narrowly cylindrical calyx tube, 8 stamens, a central style (actually 4 united styles) with a cross-shaped stigma, and a sessile ovary. Individual petals and sepals are 1/4–5/8" (6-15 mm.) long; they are both deciduous. Pale thin lines radiate across the petals from the center of the flower – these function as nectar guides. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about 1½–3 months. The flowers bloom during the night and also on cloudy days. After individual flowers bloom, their ovaries begin to swell in size and become seed capsules. Individual seed capsules are up to ¾" long with a slightly curved and cylindrical shape; they are 4-celled and bluntly 4-lobed. The surface of each capsule is either glabrous or sparsely covered with appressed white hairs. Two rows of small seeds are contained in each cell of the capsule. Individual seeds are obovoid in shape. The root system consists of a taproot. This wildflower reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, dry-mesic to dry conditions, and sandy soil.
Range & Habitat: The native Cleland's Evening Primrose is occasional in sandy areas of northern and west-central Illinois, while elsewhere in the state it is rare or absent (see Distribution Map). The distribution map doesn't distinguish between Cleland's Evening Primrose and the more western Sand Evening Primrose (Oenothera rhombipetala); most observations are the former species. Habitats include upland sand prairies, sandy hill prairies, sand dunes, upland sandy savannas, abandoned sandy fields, areas along sandy paths, and areas along railroads. Slightly disturbed areas are preferred; occasional wildfires are beneficial in reducing the encroachment of woody vegetation.
Faunal Associations: The nocturnal flowers are pollinated by Sphinx moths; they are also visited by the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird and various long-tongued bees, including the oligolectic bees Lasioglossum oenotherae and Anthedonia compta. These visitors seek mostly nectar from the flowers, although some bees also collect pollen for their larvae. Various insects feed on the leaves, seed capsules, or plant juices of Cleland's Evening Primrose and similar species. These insect feeders include the caterpillars of several moths: Hyles lineata (White-Lined Sphinx), Proserpinus juanita (Green-Banded Day Sphinx), Schinia florida (Primrose Moth), Eudryas unio (Pearly Wood Nymph), Phtheochroa oenotherana (Tortricid Moth sp.), and two Mompha spp. (Momphid Moths). Other insect feeders include several flea beetles (Altica spp.), weevils (Tyloderma spp., Chalcoderma collaris, Acanthoscelidius acephalus), and aphids (Anoecia spp., Aphis oestlundi). White-Tailed Deer chomp off the flowering stalks of this wildflower (causing it to branch), while the Common Goldfinch eats the seeds to a minor extent. The foliage is also edible to cattle and other hoofed mammalian herbivores.
Photographic Location: A sandy hill prairie at Hooper Branch Savanna Nature Preserve in Iroquois County, Illinois.
Comments: On cloudy days, this can be a very showy wildflower. The petals of its flowers are unusual because they are bluntly pointed, rather than well-rounded. Cleland's Evening Primrose is very similar to the more western Oenothera rhombipetala (Sand Evening Primrose). Until recently, these two wildflowers were regarded as the same species. Sand Evening Primrose is more robust and its flowers are larger in size (1¼–2" across). However, some field specimens with mixed characteristics may be difficult to classify as one species or the other. Another common name for either of these two species is Four-Point Evening Primrose.
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Miss Chen
2018年01月30日
Description: This biennial plant can be 7' tall, although it is often shorter. There is usually a central stem with alternate leaves, but sometimes there will be multiple stems in open areas, creating a bushy appearance. The stems are light green or red, and are covered with white hairs. The light or olive green leaves are up to 8" long and 2" wide, but usually smaller. They are lanceolate and resemble willow leaves. The margins of the leaves are smooth or slightly dentate, and are nearly hairless. Smaller secondary leaves often appear at the axils of major leaves on the central stem. A panicle of pale yellow flowers occurs at the apex of the plant (or at the ends of major stems, if the plant is bushy). Each flower is about 1" across when fully open, with 4 petals and prominent stamens, and a long green calyx. The flowers remain open from evening to early morning, but will remain open longer on cloudy days. They have a mild lemony scent, and bloom from mid-summer to fall on mature plants. Long narrow seedpods develop, which split open from the top to release many tiny, irregular brown seeds. They are small enough to be dispersed by the wind, and can remain viable in the soil after 70 years. The root system consists of a fleshy taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, average moisture, and a soil that is somewhat sandy, but other growing conditions are acceptable. This plant forms a stubby rosette during the first year, but becomes tall during the second year, at which time it flowers, sets seed, and dies. Common Evening Primrose is easy to grow, but often becomes rather unsightly as the season progresses. Disease can cause small brown spots to form on the leaves, while drought causes the lower leaves to turn yellow and fall off the plant.
Range & Habitat: Common Evening Primrose occurs in every county of Illinois (see Distribution Map), where it is native. This common plant is particularly conspicuous during late summer or fall. Disturbed areas are favored in both natural and developed habitats, including mesic to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, thickets, glades, lakeshore dunes, abandoned fields, roadsides and railroads, slopes of drainage ditches, vacant lots, etc. Sometimes this plant is cultivated in wildflower gardens, from which it may escape.
Faunal Associations: Moths pollinate the flowers, particularly Sphinx moths. Other occasional visitors include the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, honeybees, bumblebees, and Anthedonia compta (Primrose Miner Bee), the latter being an oligolege. These insects seek nectar, although some of the bees collect pollen. The caterpillars of several moths feed on the foliage. This includes Endryas unio (Pearly Wood Nymph), Desmia funeralis (Grape Leaffolder Moth), Hyles lineata (White-Lined Sphinx), and Mompha eloisella (Momphid Moth; bores through stems). Various beetles feed on the foliage, including Popillia japonica (Japanese Beetle), Grahops pubescens (Leaf Beetle sp.), Altica fusconenea (Flea Beetle sp.), and several Curculio beetles. The seeds are eaten by goldfinches.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a flower garden in Urbana, Illinois, and at Meadowbrook Park in the same city.
Comments: During the first year of growth, the roots can be cooked and eaten. This is by far the most common evening primrose (Oenothera) in Illinois. Although it favors disturbed weedy areas, this species is sometimes found in prairies and other natural areas. Common Evening Primrose can be distinguished from other Oenothera spp. on the basis of its tallness (often exceeding 3' in length), the shape of its seed capsules (rounded edges, rather than sharply angular), the shape of its leaves, and the size of its flowers. There is significant variation in the hairiness of individual plants. For more information about these distinctions, see Mohlenbrock (2002).
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, average moisture, and a soil that is somewhat sandy, but other growing conditions are acceptable. This plant forms a stubby rosette during the first year, but becomes tall during the second year, at which time it flowers, sets seed, and dies. Common Evening Primrose is easy to grow, but often becomes rather unsightly as the season progresses. Disease can cause small brown spots to form on the leaves, while drought causes the lower leaves to turn yellow and fall off the plant.
Range & Habitat: Common Evening Primrose occurs in every county of Illinois (see Distribution Map), where it is native. This common plant is particularly conspicuous during late summer or fall. Disturbed areas are favored in both natural and developed habitats, including mesic to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, thickets, glades, lakeshore dunes, abandoned fields, roadsides and railroads, slopes of drainage ditches, vacant lots, etc. Sometimes this plant is cultivated in wildflower gardens, from which it may escape.
Faunal Associations: Moths pollinate the flowers, particularly Sphinx moths. Other occasional visitors include the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, honeybees, bumblebees, and Anthedonia compta (Primrose Miner Bee), the latter being an oligolege. These insects seek nectar, although some of the bees collect pollen. The caterpillars of several moths feed on the foliage. This includes Endryas unio (Pearly Wood Nymph), Desmia funeralis (Grape Leaffolder Moth), Hyles lineata (White-Lined Sphinx), and Mompha eloisella (Momphid Moth; bores through stems). Various beetles feed on the foliage, including Popillia japonica (Japanese Beetle), Grahops pubescens (Leaf Beetle sp.), Altica fusconenea (Flea Beetle sp.), and several Curculio beetles. The seeds are eaten by goldfinches.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a flower garden in Urbana, Illinois, and at Meadowbrook Park in the same city.
Comments: During the first year of growth, the roots can be cooked and eaten. This is by far the most common evening primrose (Oenothera) in Illinois. Although it favors disturbed weedy areas, this species is sometimes found in prairies and other natural areas. Common Evening Primrose can be distinguished from other Oenothera spp. on the basis of its tallness (often exceeding 3' in length), the shape of its seed capsules (rounded edges, rather than sharply angular), the shape of its leaves, and the size of its flowers. There is significant variation in the hairiness of individual plants. For more information about these distinctions, see Mohlenbrock (2002).
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年01月30日
Description: This plant is a biennial or winter annual up to 1½' tall. Often, there are multiple leafy stems at the base of the plant, but the flowering stalks are little branched. Both the stems and flowering stalks are green to reddish green and glabrous. The leaves are up to 1½" long and 1/8" across. They are linear to oblong-linear, glabrous, smooth along the margins, and sessile. The leaves on the taller flowering stalks are alternate, while the leaves on the lower vegetative stems are usually opposite.
Each flowering stalk terminates in a spike-like raceme of flowers up to 8" long. Each flower is up to ½" long, consisting of a calyx with 5 teeth and a two-lipped corolla with a slender nectar spur. The calyx is green to purplish green and may be slightly pubescent. The corolla is light blue to medium blue-violet; its upper lip is divided into 2 rounded lobes, while the lower lip is divided into 3 lobes that are rounded and spreading. The throat of the corolla is white with 2 rounded ridges. The nectar spur can be straight or recurved. There is a short slender pedicel at the base of each flower; at the base of the pedicel, there is a single bract that is short and linear. The blooming period occurs from mid-spring to mid-summer and can last 2-3 months for a colony of plants. Only a few flowers bloom simultaneously on each raceme. Each flower is replaced by a seed capsule that splits open to release the flattened smooth seeds. These seeds can be blown about by the wind. The root system consists of a stout taproot. This plant spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and dry sandy soil where there is little competition from other plants. Rocky soil, mesic conditions, and a little shade are also tolerated.
Range & Habitat: The native Blue Toadflax occurs occasionally in sandy areas in the northern half of Illinois, otherwise it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include dry sand prairies, sand dunes, sandy savannas, thinly wooded bluffs, rocky glades, sandy shoulders of roads, and sandy fields. Disturbed areas are preferred; occasional wildfires are beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated by bumblebees and other long-tongued bees. Butterflies and skippers may visit the flowers for nectar, but they are less likely to be effective at cross-pollination. The caterpillars of the butterfly Junonia coenia (Buckeye) feed on the foliage of Blue Toadflax and many other members of the Figwort family. A stink bug, Cosmopepla carnifex Fab., has been found on the foliage of this species in sand prairies.
Photographic Location: Along a path in a burnt-over sandy savanna in Kankakee County, Illinois.
Comments: Blue Toadflax has reasonably attractive foliage and flowers. Its appearance is very similar to Nuttallanthus texensis (Southern Blue Toadflax), but the latter has larger flowers (up to 1" long) and bumpy seeds. Blue Toadflax is also related to the introduced Linaria vulgaris (Yellow Toadflax), but the latter has larger yellow flowers (up to 1" long or more). There are other Toadflaxes from Eurasia that occur primarily in sterile waste areas, but they usually have smaller flowers (¼" or less). Blue Toadflax superficially resembles Lobelia kalmii (Kalm's Lobelia), but the flowers of the latter lack nectar spurs and it usually blooms later in the year. Another scientific name for Blue Toadflax is Linaria canadensis.
Each flowering stalk terminates in a spike-like raceme of flowers up to 8" long. Each flower is up to ½" long, consisting of a calyx with 5 teeth and a two-lipped corolla with a slender nectar spur. The calyx is green to purplish green and may be slightly pubescent. The corolla is light blue to medium blue-violet; its upper lip is divided into 2 rounded lobes, while the lower lip is divided into 3 lobes that are rounded and spreading. The throat of the corolla is white with 2 rounded ridges. The nectar spur can be straight or recurved. There is a short slender pedicel at the base of each flower; at the base of the pedicel, there is a single bract that is short and linear. The blooming period occurs from mid-spring to mid-summer and can last 2-3 months for a colony of plants. Only a few flowers bloom simultaneously on each raceme. Each flower is replaced by a seed capsule that splits open to release the flattened smooth seeds. These seeds can be blown about by the wind. The root system consists of a stout taproot. This plant spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun and dry sandy soil where there is little competition from other plants. Rocky soil, mesic conditions, and a little shade are also tolerated.
Range & Habitat: The native Blue Toadflax occurs occasionally in sandy areas in the northern half of Illinois, otherwise it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include dry sand prairies, sand dunes, sandy savannas, thinly wooded bluffs, rocky glades, sandy shoulders of roads, and sandy fields. Disturbed areas are preferred; occasional wildfires are beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated by bumblebees and other long-tongued bees. Butterflies and skippers may visit the flowers for nectar, but they are less likely to be effective at cross-pollination. The caterpillars of the butterfly Junonia coenia (Buckeye) feed on the foliage of Blue Toadflax and many other members of the Figwort family. A stink bug, Cosmopepla carnifex Fab., has been found on the foliage of this species in sand prairies.
Photographic Location: Along a path in a burnt-over sandy savanna in Kankakee County, Illinois.
Comments: Blue Toadflax has reasonably attractive foliage and flowers. Its appearance is very similar to Nuttallanthus texensis (Southern Blue Toadflax), but the latter has larger flowers (up to 1" long) and bumpy seeds. Blue Toadflax is also related to the introduced Linaria vulgaris (Yellow Toadflax), but the latter has larger yellow flowers (up to 1" long or more). There are other Toadflaxes from Eurasia that occur primarily in sterile waste areas, but they usually have smaller flowers (¼" or less). Blue Toadflax superficially resembles Lobelia kalmii (Kalm's Lobelia), but the flowers of the latter lack nectar spurs and it usually blooms later in the year. Another scientific name for Blue Toadflax is Linaria canadensis.
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