Wildflowers of the United States

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Number of species: 649
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My favorite wildflower ID book, at Amazon:
Wildflowers of Tennessee, the Ohio Valley and the Southern Appalachians: 2nd Edition

Genus Name

Scientific Name

Common Names

Comment

Adam and EveAplectrum hyemale
(Native)
Puttyroot Orchid, Adam and EveThis orchid is easy to miss due to its small flowers which may blend into the background, and the fact that its leaves have withered by the time it blooms.

Connecticut: Special Concern
Massachusetts: Endangered
New Jersey: Endangered
New York: Endangered
Pennsylvania: Rare
Vermont: Threatened
Puttyroot Orchid, Adam and Eve
Adder's Mouth OrchidMalaxis unifolia
(Native)
Green Adder's Mouth(Syn. Microstylis unifolia.) There are over 250 species of Malaxis - Adder's Mouth - orchids in the world, most of them in Asia and the East Indies, but about 10 species are found in North America. Malaxis unifolia is the most widespread of the Adder's Mouth Orchids in the United States, found in swamps, bogs, barrens, and dry forests from Minnesota south to Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, and in all states eastward from there. It is listed for protection (Endangered, Threatened, etc.) in Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, New Hampshire, New York, and Rhode Island. (While M. unifolia is not found in Canada, there are two other species of Malaxis widely distributed in Canada.)

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Green Adder's Mouth
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AgrimonyAgrimonia gryposepala
(Native)
Tall Hairy Agrimony, Common Agrimony, Hooked Agrimony, Tall Hairy GrooveburrAgrimonia is a relatively small genus, with about 10 to 15 species worldwide. More than half of those are found in the United States, with about 7 native species. Agrimonia gryposepala is the most widely distributed of those native North American species, being found from coast to coast except in a swath of states from Montana to Texas - those in the Rocky Mountains. It is also missing in Florida. It prefers moderately to very moist habitats. These photos were taken in Cosby Campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, at an elevation of about 2500'.

The differences between some Agrimonia species are somewhat subtle. I think this is Agrimonia gryposepala because it has shiny, glandular hairs on the stem and inflorescence, I find no more than 5 major leaflets on the mid-cauline leaves (A. incisa and A. parviflora have 7 to 13), and the non-glandular (eglandular) hairs on the stem and inflorescence are erect (A. rostellata has ascending eglandular hairs in the inflorescence.) That leaves A. gryposepala and A. striata standing among the species found in the region where I found this specimen. Differences between these two species are noted in the descriptions of the photographs.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Tall Hairy Agrimony, Common Agrimony, Hooked Agrimony, Tall Hairy Grooveburr
AgrimonyAgrimonia parviflora
(Native)
Southern Agrimony, Harvest Lice, Swamp Agrimony, Small-flowered Agrimony
Agrimonia is a relatively small genus, with about 10 to 15 species worldwide. More than half of those are found in the United States, with about 7 native species. The species can be somewhat difficult to differentiate at a glance, with the keys to identification focusing on the type of hairs on the stems and leaves, and on the number of major and minor leaflets on the compound leaves. Agrimonia parviflora is one of the more widely distributed species, found in moist areas of 29 states from the eastern Great Plains to the East Coast in the United States, as well as in Ontario, Canada. Agrimonia species can be very difficult to determine to the species, with only subtle differences between them.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Southern Agrimony, Harvest Lice, Swamp Agrimony, Small-flowered Agrimony
AlfalfaMedicago lupulina
(Introduced)
Black Medic, Black Hay, Hop Clover, Hop Medic, Yellow TrefoilThis plant is a native to Eurasion and Africa, and after introduction to the United States has spread to every state, and also throughout most of Canada. Clearly is appropriately considered invasive.

The leaves are trifoliate, looking very much like those of species in the Trifolium (Clover) genus. As with Trifolium campestre the stem of the terminal leaflet is longer than those of the lateral leaflets. Leaflets of Medicago have a tiny tooth at their apex; those of Trifolium do not.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Black Medic, Black Hay, Hop Clover, Hop Medic, Yellow Trefoil
AlumrootHeuchera villosa
(Native)
Mapleleaf Alumroot, Hairy Alum Root, Rough HeucheraApproximately 32 Heuchera species are found in North America. The populations in the northern and southwestern states in the range (particularly Ohio, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Missouri, and Mississippi) seem to be very limited - only 1 or 2 counties in each of those states. From what I can tell, its presence in New York is questionable; BONAP distribution map indicates a presence in 1 county; New York Flora Association indicates that it is not known in the wild in New York. It is Threatened in Ohio and Endangered in Maryland. There is a variety (var. arkansana) which is found only in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. The inflorescence of var. arkansana may be smaller and more dense, and the flowers are glabrous or less hairy than the more widely distributed var. villosa.

The Heuchera genus is named for Johann Heinrich von Heucher, an Austrian-born botanist of the 17th and 18th centuries.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, IN, KY, MD, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Mapleleaf Alumroot, Hairy Alum Root, Rough Heuchera
American ToadflaxNuttallanthus canadensis
(Native)
Blue Toadflax, Canada Toadflax, Oldfield Toadflax
The three native North American and single native South American species of Linaria were separated into the four-species genus Nuttallanthus in 1988 by David A. Sutton in his comprehensive treatment of the tribe Antirrhineae which is now placed in the Plantaginaceae (formerly within Scrophulariaceae.) The remaining species of Linaria are Eurasian in origin. Some use American Toadflax as the genus common name for Nuttallanthus.

Of the three species found in the United States, Nuttallanthus floridanus is, as the name implies, primarily a Florida species, but also found in the adjoining Southeastern states of Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. N. texanus is a more western species, found sporadically in the Southeastern states, but mostly centered west of the Mississippi in the south central U.S, and scattered through most of the rest of the West, and into Canada. N. canadensis, the one presented here, is an eastern species, found in all states east of the Mississippi River and west to Texas and north to Minnesota and Canada. (There is some disagreement as to whether this plant is found in North and South Dakota.) While several reliable organizations report it as being in California, Oregon, and Washington, it is possible that is not present there. Some of the confusion on those western states might be because Nuttallanthus texanus was once classified as Linaria canadensis var. texana. I know that at least one source has (as of 2019-01-12) photos of what appears to me to be Nuttallanthus texanus but listed as Nuttallanthus canadensis.
Synonym: Linaria canadensis

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Blue Toadflax, Canada Toadflax, Oldfield Toadflax
AnemoneAnemone piperi
(Native)
Piper's Anemone, WindflowerAccording to the USDA Plants Database, there are 19 species in the Anemone genus that are native to the United States. Several of these are found in a relatively small region of the continent, and Piper's Anemone - Anemone piperi - is one of those, being found in only 5 northwestern states, and in British Columbia. It grows in shaded, moist forests to altitudes of up to nearly 10,000'. This one was photographed at an elevation of a little over 5,000'.

Found in:
ID, MT, OR, UT, WA
Piper's Anemone, Windflower
AnemoneAnemone quinquefolia
(Native)
Wood Anemone, Nightcaps, Twoleaf AnemoneAnemone quinquefolia is found in most of the eastern United States, ranging further west - to the Dakotas - in the northern part of the range, and even as far west as Alberta in Canada. There are two varieties recognized by Flora of North America - var. minima is found only in NC, TN, VA, and WV, and var. quinquefolia, the widely ranging variety. The lateral leaflets in var. minima are sometimes unlobed. However, since they are also sometimes lobed and you may need to get to measuring achene sizes to differentiate, it's probably not worth trying to determine the variety for most of us.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Wood Anemone, Nightcaps, Twoleaf Anemone
AnemoneAnemone virginiana
(Native)
Thimbleweed, Tall AnemoneAnemone virginiana is a tall - for an Anemone - summer-blooming plant, growing up to around three feet tall in rich open forests and thickets. There are three varieties; the one with by far the widest distribution in the United States is var. virginiana, which is widely distributed through the eastern two thirds of the United States, and in Ontario and Quebec in Canada.

The other two varieties are differentiated primarily by sepal length, anther length, and involucre bract shape. Var. cylindoridea is found only in Minnesota and New York in the U.S., but is found in all of the southern tier of provinces in Canada. Var. alba is found from Minnesota eastward in the Canada-bordering states, in New England, and the eastern seaboard south to New Jersey, in eastern Canada, and in Saskatchewan.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Thimbleweed, Tall Anemone
AnemoneAnemone acutiloba
(Native)
Sharp-lobed Hepatica, Liverleaf, Liverwort

The classification of Hepatica has been disputed. In the past it was considered as a single species with two varieties (some called them subspecies) of Hepatica nobilis. Hepatica nobilis var. acuta, Sharp-lobed Hepatica, and Round-lobed Hepatica, Hepatica nobilis var obtusa. They have also been classified in the past by some authorities as separate species in the Hepatica genus (H. acuta, H. acutiloba, H. americana, H. hepatica, and H. triloba.) Most authorities now consider these two plants to be separate species in the Anemone genus. H. nobilis var. acuta is now Anemone acutiloba, and H. nobilis var obtusa is now Anemone americana (Anemone hepatica by some authorities.) The classification within the USWildflowers' database here was changed to conform to more broadly accepted Anemone genus in February, 2016.

Sharp-Lobed Hepatica is listed as "Threatened" in Connecticut, and "Endangered" in Florida. According to USDA, it is "Possibly Extirpated" in Maine. The inclusion of listing the species in Florida may possibly be a relic of Hepatica nobilis, with var. obtusa being found in two counties along the northern border (Jackson and Gadsden.)

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Sharp-lobed Hepatica, Liverleaf, Liverwort
AnemoneAnemone americana
(Native)
Round-lobed Hepatica, Liverleaf

The classification of Anemone / Hepatica has been in flux. In the past it was considered as a single species with two varieties (some call them subspecies) of Hepatica nobilis. Hepatica nobilis var. acuta, Sharp-lobed Hepatica, and Round-lobed Hepatica, Hepatica nobilis var obtusa. They have also been classified in the past by some authorities as separate species in the Hepatica genus (H. acuta, H. acutiloba, H. americana, H. hepatica, and H. triloba.) Most authorities now consider these two plants to be separate species in the Anemone genus. Hepatica nobilis var. acuta is now Anemone acutiloba, and Hepatica nobilis var obtusa is now Anemone americana - the species presented here. It is closely related to the European Anemone hepatica species. The classification within the USWildflowers' database here now has moved these two plants listed from varieties of H. nobilis to Anemone americana and Anemone acutiloba.

Round-lobed Hepatica is "Endangered" in Florida and "Special Concern" in Rhode Island. It is found in both deciduous and evergreen forests, frequently in drier areas than A. acutiloba may be found.

Found in: AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Round-lobed Hepatica, Liverleaf
Angelica, Wild CeleryAngelica triquinata
(Native)
Mountain Angelica, Filmy AngelicaThere are about 24 species of Angelica in the North America, with only 18 of those in the central and western half of the continent. Angelica triquinata - Mountain Angelica - is one of four Angelica species found in the eastern United States (2 are only in eastern Canada). It has a fairly narrow distribution, being found in the Appalachian Mountains from far northeast Georgia up through Pennsylvania. It is Endangered in Kentucky and Maryland.

Of the other eastern species, A. atropurpurea is a more northern species has 20 to 45 umbellets vs 13 to 25 umbellets for A. triquinata, and the acute-tipped leaflets are mostly glabrous, while the acuminate leaflets of A. triquinata have ciliate margins. A. dentata is found only in southwestern Georgia and the panhandle of Florida, and both it and the most widely distributed eastern member of the genus, A. venenosa, have obtuse leaf tips, and A. venenosa is densely pubescent. The species name of this last species speaks to the poisonous nature of the plant; there are also indications that A. triquinata is poisonous, based on the drugged reaction of certain insects to the nectar.

Found in:
GA, KY, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Mountain Angelica, Filmy Angelica
ArrowheadSagittaria latifolia
(Native)
Common Arrowhead, Arrowleaf, Burhead, Wapato, Duck-potato, Broadleaf ArrowheadFound in every state except Nevada (probably too dry) and Alaska, it is native to the North American continent, but has been introduced and naturalized in Hawaii. It is also native to much of southern Canada. It is listed as Endangered in Illinois. The Southern Weed Science Society considers it to be weedy in some areas.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Common Arrowhead, Arrowleaf, Burhead, Wapato, Duck-potato, Broadleaf Arrowhead
AsterSymphyotrichum pilosum
(Native)
Hairy White Oldfield Aster, Frost Aster, White Heath Aster, Downy Aster
A different species of Symphyotrichum, S. ericoides, has the national name of White Heath Aster, but this species is also referred to by that common name in some places. Many species formerly classified in the Aster genus have been reclassified into Symphyotrichum and other genera within the Asteraceae family. This one was previously classified as Aster pilosus. Many of these small white aster species are difficult to tell apart (I'm not absolutely certain on this one.) The primary differentiator for S. pilosum one is the hairy stem, which is referenced by the species epithet "pilosum", from the Latin word for hair - pilus.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Hairy White Oldfield Aster, Frost Aster, White Heath Aster, Downy Aster
AsterSymphyotrichum patens
(Native)
Late Purple Aster, Spreading AsterFormerly classified as Aster patens. There are three varieties of Symphyotrichum patens - gracile, patens, and patentissimum. Var patens is the only one found in the northeastern states, var patentissimum isn't found in the coastal states. Some authorities do not recognize var gracile. The species is possibly extirpated in Maine; it is officially listed as Threatened in New Hampshire.

It is with some trepidation that I step into the arena of identifying Symphyotricum species. There are many very similar species in this large genus (90 species in the genus.) But this plant was so beautiful I wanted to give it a shot, so with the help of my trusty copy of Wildflowers Of Tennessee, The Ohio Valley and the Southern Appalachians and the Internet, I've given it a shot, and think this is likely Symphyotrichum patens - Late Purple Aster. It has too few ray flowers to be New England Aster. The pubescent purplish stem eliminates Smooth Aster. The entire leaves eliminate (in my mind) Purple-stemmed Aster. Since the leaves are not linear, this isn't Southern Prairie Aster. The leaves, in my opinion, encircle the stem too much for this to be Aromatic Aster (although I regret not crushing a leaf to check for an aroma.)
Late Purple Aster, Spreading Aster
AsterOclemena acuminata
(Native)
Whorled Wood Aster, Whorled Aster, Mountain Aster, Sharp-leaved AsterThe traditional Aster genus was quite large, with over 250 species in North America. Although the dissolution of Aster started in the 1830's, recent studies have resulted in changes to the classification of most (or, it appears to me, all) of those species into various other genera. While most are now in Symphyotricum or Eurybia, there are a few each in several other genera, with 3 of them in Oclemena - all in eastern North America.

Oclemena acuminata was formerly known as Aster acuminatus. It is Threatened in Kentucky, and Presumed Extirpated in Ohio where it was known historically only in Ashtabula County, in the far northeastern corner of the state. It is known in the Appalachian Mountain states from northeast Georgia north to Maine, and in a few eastern provinces in Canada. In the southern part of its range, it is found only in the higher elevations of the mountains, which is why one of the common names is Mountain Aster. The photographs on this page were taken around 6,000' elevation in western North Carolina.

Found in:
CT, GA, KY, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, TN, VA, VT, WV
Whorled Wood Aster, Whorled Aster, Mountain Aster, Sharp-leaved Aster
AsterSymphyotrichum novae-angliae
(Native)
New England Aster, Michaelmas-daisySymphyotrichum is a huge genus with around 90 species, with over 75 being found in North America. It was formerly part of the huge Aster genus, which received major reclassification in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, being split primarily between Symphyotrichum(90+ species) and Eurybia (23), with a few species also being reclassified into Ampelaster (1), Doellingeria (3), Ionactis (5), Oclemena (4), and Sericocarpus (5). Symphyotrichum novae-angliae has synonyms of Aster novae-angliae, Lasallea novae-angliae, and Virgulus novae-angliae.

New England Aster is perhaps one of the best known Asters, and with good reason. It is quite a showy plant, sometimes with hundreds of large, colorful deep purple to pink compound flowers on leafy plants growing to 4, 5, or occasionally even 6 feet tall, seen in open wooded areas, meadows, prairies, and along streams, but especially visible along many roadsides. It also has very wide distribution, being found in 42 of the 50 states, and most of Canada. (The reports of the plant in California may be historic or, as in Montana, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, of naturalized garden escapees.) It's especially common in the Upper Midwest and (reasonably) the New England states. It also has a fairly long blooming season, starting to bloom in early August and blooming until first frost.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
New England Aster, Michaelmas-daisy
AvensGeum canadense
(Native)
White Avens, Canada AvensGeum canadense - White Avens - is one of the most widely distributed of the Avens, being found in every state in the eastern 2 / 3 of the United States except for Florida, as well as most of eastern Canada. Florida and Hawaii are the only states without a Geum species. Some authorities - and this seems to be the trending direction - include what were formerly classified in the Waldsteinia genus (Barren Strawberry) within Geum, increasing the number of Geum species by four. While this is a member of the Rose family (Rosaceae,) I found it to be similar enough to some Buttercups (Ranununculus) that I spent a lot of time looking for white-petaled Ranunculaceae plants until Twitter friend @desmoinesdem posted a photo of a plant she was trying to identify - same as mine. That photo can be found here: Bleeding Heartland. Fortunately for us, @Lynzey515 identified it for us as White Avens.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
White Avens, Canada Avens
BalloonvineCardiospermum halicacabum
(Introduced)
Balloon Vine, Love in a Puff, HeartseedIntroduced and spreading in the continental United States, Cardiospermum halicacabum is native to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The only balloonvine native to the continental United States is Cardiospermum dissectum, native to southern Texas.

This vine, which may grow to 10 feet long, climbing on fences and other plants via tendrils, may not survive winter in colder climates, but is considered a perennial in milder climates and be weedy and invasive in those areas. It is officially listed as a pest or noxious weed in Alabama, Arkansas, South Carolina, and Texas.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MI, MO, MS, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA
Balloon Vine, Love in a Puff, Heartseed
BalsamrootBalsamorhiza sagittata
(Native)
Arrowleaf BalsamrootThere are 14 species of Balsamroot found in the United States, all of them in the west. This one, Arrowleaf Balsamroot, is characterized and named by the elongated arrowhead shape of the leaf. While it is in bloom it can turn large patches of the dry montane landscapes yellow with its dominant presence.Arrowleaf Balsamroot
BaneberryActaea pachypoda
(Native)
White Baneberry, Doll's EyesPoisonous, especially the berries. This member of the Buttercup family is found in every state in the eastern half of the United States. It is protected in New York and Florida.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
White Baneberry, Doll's Eyes
BarberryXanthorhiza simplicissima
(Native)
Shrub YellowrootShrub yellowroot gets its name from the yellow interior of the roots and stem. The root contains berberine, from which it gets its yellow color, and probably is what has led to its use in traditional medicines.

Found in:
AL, CT, FL, GA, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MS, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Shrub Yellowroot
BarberryMahonia repens
(Native)
Creeping Oregon Grape, Creeping BarberryThe Berberis genus at one time contained all the barberries, but relatively recently those with pinnate leaves have been reclassified into the Mahonia genus. Further, many of what were previously classified as separate species have been consolidated, leaving what had been over 20 species and varieties of Berberis as 13 species or subspecies in the Mahonia genus in the United States.

This species, Mahonia repens is listed as Endangered in California under the synonym Mahonia sonnei. It is found in 19 states, most of them in the west, although there are populations in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. These eastern populations might have been established from seeds brought back from the west. Seeds were brought east as early as the Lewis and Clark expeditions in the early 19th century.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, DE, ID, IN, MN, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, OR, PA, SD, TX, UT, WA, WY
Creeping Oregon Grape, Creeping Barberry
Barren StrawberryGeum donianum
(Native)
Southern Barren Strawberry, Appalachian Barren Strawberry, Small-petaled Barren Strawberry
The Barren Strawberry genus (Waldsteinia) has had a pretty confusing history of classification, and it appears that it may no longer exist, with most authorities now agreeing that it needs to be placed within Geum - Avens. Even when they were separated into Waldsteinia, there was much confusion as to whether Northern and Southern Barren Strawberry should be combined into a single species as Waldsteinia fragarioides or to separate Southern Barren Strawberry into its own genus, either as W. parviflora or as W. donianum. Finally in the 21st century, after genetic study and much discussion on the names, most (not all) authorities that care seem to agree that Waldsteinia should be combined with Geum, although with deciduous style (the rest of the Geum has a persistent style), in its own subgenus - Waldsteinia. Most publications still classify these plants in Waldsteinia, and the USDA map shown to the right combines Northern and Southern Barren Strawberry into a single genus.

Geum donianum - Southern Barren Strawberry - differs from Geum fragarioides - Northern Barren Strawberry - most obviously (if that term can be used) in the size of the flower, most easily noted by the petal size relative to the sepal size, with the petals of G. donianum being shorter than to just a bit longer than the sepals, and those of G. fragarioides being distinctly longer than the sepals. Their ranges overlap in Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina. There is another species (G. lobatum) in a small area of the southern Appalachians which has deeply lobed rather than compound leaves, and one in Idaho and Montana (G. idahoensis with shallower lobes and larger flowers.

Synonym: Waldsteinia fragarioides var. parviflora, Waldsteinia parviflora.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS (This list and the USDA map show the distribution for the combined G. donianum and G. fragarioides, since they are so similar and many publications combine them.)
Southern Barren Strawberry, Appalachian Barren Strawberry, Small-petaled Barren Strawberry
BeaksedgeRhynchospora latifolia
(Native)
Broadleaf White-topped Sedge, Sandswamp Whitetop Sedge
Rhynchospora (Beaksedge) is a large genus of sedges with over 250 member species worldwide, and nearly 70 in North America. Identification of sedges to the species can be very difficult unless you are truly an expert, and I'm certainly not. Fortunately the white-topped Beaksedges are very limited - only 3 in the United States, so that clears the field a lot. These white-topped species are in subgenus Diplostylae, section Dichromena. All species in that section were until fairly recently classified in the separate genus Dichromena. The white-topped species are R. floridensis, found only in the southern half of Florida, R. colorata, and R. latifolia. Both of the latter two species are found throughout most of Florida as well as in several other southeastern states.

These photographs were taken outside the range of R. floridensis, so these are either R. latifolia or R. colorata. Among the differences between the two species are the basal width of the longest involucral bracts, with R. latifolia usually being at least 5 mm wide, and R. colorata being less than 5 mm wide. The white portion of the R. latifolia lowest bract is also longer than that of R. colorata at 22-55mm vs 9-25mm. Unfortunately I did not measure the bracts, so I must rely on other characteristics, and I get mixed results. R. latifolia is described as being white on the lowest bract to midpoint and then narrowing abruptly to green, while the white on R. colorata ends a bit before midpoint and then tapering to the green tip - some of my photos seem to show white ending before midpoint with a gradual taper, implying R. colorata. However, several authorities reference the number of bracts, with R. colorata having up to 6 (occasionally 7), and R. latifolia usually having 6 to 10 (occasionally as few as 5), and my photos show 8 or more bracts in most cases. Since the number of bracts seems less subjective than "near midpoint" and "to midpoint" or "tapering gradually" and "tapering abruptly", I have chosen to rely on the number of bracts and list these as Rhynchospora latifolia, although I may be wrong. Note that Weakley's Flora lists R. latifolia as "common" vs "uncommon" for R. colorata in Florida. It is also possible that I may have photographed both species, but all photos are from the same location - along a sand road in Bradford County, Florida.

Rhynchospora latifolia is found in wet areas of the Southeastern Coastal Plains from North Carolina south to Florida and west to Texas. There was a report of it being found in Coffee County Tennessee in 1901 (my guess is at May Prairie, where other Coastal Plain plants are found, or at AEDC), but since the collected specimen was destroyed by fire and the description was not published, some experts believe that was likely to be R. colorata, which is found in nearby areas of Alabama.
Synonym Dichromena latifolia.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX
Broadleaf White-topped Sedge, Sandswamp Whitetop Sedge
BeardtonguePenstemon canescens
(Native)
Eastern Gray BeardtongueWoodland perennial to 30 inches tall with pale purple to and white blossoms, with purple lines in the interior.Eastern Gray Beardtongue
BeardtonguePenstemon payettensis
(Native)
Payette Beardtongue, Payette PenstemonOne of the more showy and beautiful Penstemon species, Payette Beardtongue is found only in Idaho, Montana, and Oregon. Unlike some Beardtongues, in P. payettensis the flowers circle the stem, which grows up to 2 feet tall, rather than forming on only one side of the stem.Payette Beardtongue, Payette Penstemon
BeardtonguePenstemon deustus
(Native)
Hot-rock Penstemon, Scabland penstemon, Hot-rock BeardtongueA plant found in 7 of our western states (CA, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY,) Hot-rock Penstemon is usually found in middle elevations in rocky soil, growing up to 2 feet tall. It is among the 249 species of Penstemon found in the United States.Hot-rock Penstemon,  Scabland penstemon, Hot-rock Beardtongue
BeardtonguePenstemon digitalis
(Native)
Foxglove Beardtongue, Tall White Beardtongue, Mississippi Penstemon, Smooth White Beardtongue, Talus slope BeardtonguePenstemon is a large genus with over 250 species, all endemic to North America (most in the western part of the continent), except perhaps a single species in Asia. Many of these species are similar, and differences in species can be down to minutiae in characteristics, such a shape and hair features of the stamens. The Penstemon genus had long been included in the Scrophulariaceae (Figwort) family based on morphological characteristics (stuff we can see), but relatively recent genetic work (1990s) determined that most plants classified in that family were not as closely related as previously thought. Along with species moved to other families, Penstemon was among a number of species moved to Plantaginaceae. There was disagreement about what the new family should be called; the scientists working on the effort preferred Veronicaceae, but due to a technicality in the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature (ICBN) that name was rejected (published in 1782, prior to the 1789 cutoff for this type of name) and the new group of species are within the family Plantaginaceae.

Penstemon digitalis is a widespread species, being found in every state east of the Mississippi River except Florida, as well as 10 states west of that river. It's also found in eastern Canada. Some authorities think that this species was originally native only to the Mississippi River Basin. It is found in moist areas of meadows and open forests.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Foxglove Beardtongue, Tall White Beardtongue, Mississippi Penstemon, Smooth White Beardtongue, Talus slope Beardtongue
BeautyberryCallicarpa americana
(Native)
American Beautyberry, French MulberryAmerican Beautyberry is a well-named shrub growing usually to around 5 feet tall, sometimes taller, and 5 to 10 feet wide. The beauty of this plant, native to the southeastern United States, makes it an attractive addition to a native garden.

According to the USDA, the roots, leaves, and branches were used by native Americans medicinally for treatment of fevers, rheumatism, stomachaches, dysentery, and other conditions.
American Beautyberry, French Mulberry
Bee PlantPeritoma serrulata
(Native)
Rocky Mountain Bee Plant, Stinking Clover, Skunk Weed, Navajo SpinachPeritoma is a small genus of about 6 species, all of which are endemic to North America. At some point each species in Peritoma has been considered to be a Cleome species, (Cleome serrulata is considered to be a synonym of Peritoma serrulata), but as it stands now, in most current classifications there is no Cleome species native to North America, and all species in Peritoma are native to this continent.
Distribution of Peritoma serrulata is fairly widespread across North American.. Even though its native range is not much east of the Rocky Mountains, it is occasionally found in the wild in the midwest and northeast. In those cases it is likely a garden escapee or the occasional waif, unlikely to be persistent.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, WI, WY
Rocky Mountain Bee Plant, Stinking Clover, Skunk Weed, Navajo Spinach
BeechdropsEpifagus virginiana
(Native)
Beechdrops, Cancer Drops, Clapwort, Virginia BroomrapeEpifagus is monotypic - E. virginiana is the only species in the genus. It is a member of Orobanchaceae - the largest parasitic plant family. The genus name is indicative of its preferential host species - Fagus is the genus of Beech trees. Epifagus virginiana is almost exclusively parasitic on American Beech - Fagus grandifolia. A study published in "The Michigan Botanist" confirmed this long-held belief, although there is some indication that when Maple trees are mixed with Beech, as is often the case, Epifagus may also, perhaps "accidentally" attach itself to the roots of Acer species as well as Fagus species.

Epifagus virginiana is found throughout most of the eastern United States and eastern Canada, as well as eastern Mexico. It has been used in herbal medicines to treat dysentery, cancer, and gonorrhea ("clap"), yielding the Cancer Drops and Clapwort common names.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Beechdrops, Cancer Drops, Clapwort, Virginia Broomrape
BeggarticksBidens aristosa
(Native)
Bearded Beggarticks, Tickseed Sunflower, Bur MarigoldBeautiful multi-branched, multi-blossomed flower seen in late summer along roads and fields. The specimens presented here probably would have been classified as B. polylepis prior to a 1977 Arkansas study which determined the primary differentiator between the two "species" - the number of calyx lobes - was a factor of the size of the plant within a colony, with the larger plants having B. polylepis characteristics and the shorter plants having B. aristosa characteristics. Since B. aristosa was an older classification, most authorities have merged B. polylepis into B. aristosa.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Bearded Beggarticks, Tickseed Sunflower, Bur Marigold
BeggarticksBidens pilosa
(Native)
Shepherd's Needles ,Spanish Needles, Romerillo, Common Beggar's-tick, Hairy Beggarticks, Cobbler's PegsSynonym: Bidens alba
Many authorities (and, frankly, most folks who are not authorities) continue to consider Bidens alba a separate species from Bidens pilosa, and the plants on this page would be B. alba under those circumstances. As of January, 2012 the USDA plants database continued to maintain the separation of species, but the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (along with the Flora of North Amertica) has adopted a more recent classification which rolls B. alba and B. odorata into B. pilosa. (I know that will be a disappointment to some.) The USDA map shown does not include Missouri (as of January 2012), since if the species are considered separate B. pilosa is not found in the state, but B. alba is found there. That map also shows the plant as non-native. Bidens alba is considered native to parts of the United States. If that plant is considered a separate species, then Bidens pilosa is a non-native species. If Bidens alba is rolled into Bidens pilosa, then Bidens pilosa will need to be considered a native species in those areas where Bidens alba was considered to be native. That logic may be difficult to follow, but that's why I indicate B. pilosa to be a native species while the USDA map shows it to be introduced.

On a December, 2011 trip to Florida Shepherd's Needles seemed to become the dominant flowering plant along the highways by the time we got as far south as Gainesville. It seemed to be everywhere, and is officially considered a weedy or invasive plant in Hawaii, where it is not native. It's also considered weedy and invasive in much of the rest of the tropical world, where it has spread as man's travel has spread. While the plant may (probably will!) spread where it is not wanted, it is reported to be a great attractor for butterflies.

Found in:
AL, AZ, CA, CT, FL, GA, HI, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NM, OR, PA, SC, TX, WI
Shepherd's Needles ,Spanish Needles, Romerillo, Common Beggar's-tick, Hairy Beggarticks, Cobbler's Pegs
BeggarticksBidens bipinnata
(Native)
Spanish Needles, Spanish Needles Beggars TicksBidens is a large genus of over 200 species found around the world. There is at least one Bidens species found in each of the United States. The name comes from the latin words for two teeth - in most Bidens species the seeds have two usually barbed awns at the end (although Bidens bipinnata usually has more than two.) These barbed awns allow the seeds to stick to hair, fur, and clothing, thus being distributed as far as the carrier may travel. The genus is closely related to Coreopsis, and classification changes will likely occur in the future.

Bidens bipinnata is one of the more widely distributed species in the genus, and is more tolerant of drier habitat than many other species in the genus. It is found in floodplains, fields, roadsides, gardens, and other disturbed areas throughout the eastern United States and in its southern range as far west as Arizona, south into Mexico. It may also be native to eastern Asia, and may be introduced in much of the rest of the world.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NV, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV, GS
Spanish Needles, Spanish Needles Beggars Ticks
BellflowerCampanula divaricata
(Native)
Southern Harebell, Small Bonny Bellflower, Southern Bellflower, Southern BluebellSouthern Harebell is a many-branched, somewhat weak-stemmed plant with many attractive, dangling, small, bell-shaped blue flowers. Primarily a species of the southeast, it is endangered or extirpated in Maryland.

Found in:
AL, CT, GA, KY, MD, NC, NH, SC, TN, VA, WV
Southern Harebell, Small Bonny Bellflower, Southern Bellflower, Southern Bluebell
BellflowerCampanulastrum americanum
(Native)
Tall Bellflower, American BellflowerThis species is perhaps more widely known as Campanula americana which would place it in the genus containing Southern Harebell (C. Divaricata) and Bluebell Bellflower (Campanula rotundifolia.) However, the Campanula species have distinctly bell-shaped flowers, which is not the case with Campanulastrum americanum, which has relatively flat flowers. That would have been one of the characteristics that resulted in creation of a new genus for American (aka Tall) Bellflower - Campanulastrum which has this single species in it.

The plant is found in most of the eastern half of the United States except for the New England states, New Jersey, and Delaware.
Tall Bellflower, American Bellflower
BellflowerCampanula rotundifolia
(Native)
Bluebell Bellflower, Bluebell, Harebell, Bluebell-of-Scotland, Blue Rain Flower, Heathbells, Witches ThimblesCampanula rotundifolia is a circumboreal species around the world in the northern hemisphere, and is thus found throughout much of northern North America, including Canada and the northern states in the United States from coast to coast. It is also found in the higher elevations in the Rockies (up to 12,000 feet) and Appalachians, so is completely absent only from a few midwestern states, Nevada (too dry), and the deep southeastern states. It is also found in the northern parts of Asia and Europe - it is well-known in Scotland. It grows in a variety of habitats, from dry meadows to moist beaches; the one photographed here on a rocky shore of a cove in Lake Huron, Ontario, Canada.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Bluebell Bellflower, Bluebell, Harebell, Bluebell-of-Scotland, Blue Rain Flower, Heathbells, Witches Thimbles
BellwortUvularia grandiflora
(Native)
Large-flowered BellwortThis member of the lily family is one of the mid-spring wildflowers. It has lovely yellow flowers and attractive foliage. It is found throughout much of the eastern half of the United States, but is listed as an endangered species in Connecticut and New Hampshire.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NH, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Large-flowered Bellwort
BellwortUvularia perfoliata
(Native)
Perfoliate Bellwort, Merry BellsPerfoliate Bellwort is one of two perfoliate - leaf-piercing stems - bellworts. The other is Large-flowered Bellwort, Uvularia grandiflora. Perfoliate Bellwort is a smaller plant, usually with smaller leaves and blossoms, in addition to usually being somewhat lower-growing.Perfoliate Bellwort, Merry Bells
BellwortUvularia sessilifolia
(Native)
Sessileleaf Bellwort, Wild OatsEarly- to mid-spring smooth-stemmed wildflower of deciduous woodlands.Sessileleaf Bellwort, Wild Oats
BellwortUvularia puberula
(Native)
Mountain Bellwort, Carolina Bellwort, Appalachian Bellwort, Coastal BellwortOf the five species in the Uvularia genus (all five Bellworts are endemic to eastern North America), there are two with perfoliate leaves, and three with sessile leaves. The species presented here, Uvularia puberula is one of those sessile-leaved Bellworts. Another of the sessile species, Uvularia floridana may overlap with the other species only in the most southern parts of their ranges - southern Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and northern Florida, the areas where the relatively rare Florida Bellwort is found. In most of the range of Uvularia puberula it is most likely to be confused with Uvularia sessilifolia, the third and most widely distributed of the sessile-leaved Bellworts. As is implied by the species epithet, U. puberula is hairier than U. sessilifolia - primarily in the lower leaf surface and upper stem.

Some authorities recognize two varieties of Uvularia puberula - a mountain variety (var. puberula, the one presented here) which has broader, rounded to slightly clasping leaves and hairs in line on the ridges of the stem, and a Piedmont variety (var. nitida), with narrower cuneate-based leaves and glabrous stems. You'll need to look at the underside of the leaves and details of the styles to differentiate var. nitida from U. sessilifolia if you are in the Piedmont or coastal plains.

It appears that sometime in the last 10 years Uvularia has been moved into the family Colchicaceae (Meadow Saffron) as part of the disassembly of Liliaceae. I have chosen to leave them in Liliaceae on USWildflowers.com until I get a chance to research that move in more depth.

Found in:
AL, GA, MD, NC, NJ, NY, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV, GS
Mountain Bellwort, Carolina Bellwort, Appalachian Bellwort, Coastal Bellwort
Bergamot, BeebalmMonarda fistulosa
(Native)
Wild BergamotThe Bergamots are also known as Bee Balm. This species is lavender with a hairy upper lip on the blossom. Wild Bergamot
Bergamot, BeebalmMonarda clinopodia
(Native)
White Bergamot, Basil Bee BalmWhite Bergamot can usually be found in many-flowered clusters of plants 18-36 inches tall in showy displays starting in late spring or early summer. Many authorities apply the name Basil Beebalm to M. clinopodia, but both the USDA Plants Database and ITIS database apply Basil Beebalm only to a separate species, M. clinopodioides, and only the name White Beebalm to M. clinopodia. The ranges of M. clinopodioides and M. clinopodia are contiguous, but do not overlap, according to the USDA Plants Database.White Bergamot, Basil Bee Balm
Bergamot, BeebalmMonarda didyma
(Native)
Crimson Bee Balm, Scarlet Bergamot, Scarlet Beebalm, Oswego TeaThere are 16 Beebalm (Monarda) species in the United States. All are native to the lower 48 states; Alaska and Hawaii are the only states without a Monarda species. Texas is the most favored state by Monarda; 12 of the species are found in that state, 4 of them being found exclusively in Texas.

Monarda didyma, Scarlet Beebalm, is one of the more widely distributed species, being found in most of the northeast quadrant of the United States, including several states west of the Mississippi River, and south to Georgia.

Found in:
CT, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Crimson Bee Balm, Scarlet Bergamot, Scarlet Beebalm, Oswego Tea
Birds BeakCordylanthus wrightii
(Native)
Wright's Bird's Beak, Club Flower
Cordylanthus - Bird's Beak or Club Flower - as currently described is a small genus of a dozen or so species found in western North America. Other species previously classifed in Cordylanthus have been moved to Chloropyron and Dicranostegia. The plants of Cordylanthus are hemi-parasitic - they have chlorophyll and thus provide some of their own food, but are also partially parasitic on the roots or shoots of another host plant, obtaining water and minerals from the other plant. This root parasitism has allowed Cordylanthus to grow in dry areas during drier times when most other annuals have died. Cordylanthus, along with many other parasitic former members of Scrophulariaceae has been moved to Orobanchaceae.

Cordylanthus wrightii grows in sandy areas in plains and pine forests of the four corners states in the southwestern United States, and in extreme western Texas. It blooms from July thru October.

Found in:
AZ, CO, NM, TX, UT
Wright's Bird's Beak, Club Flower
BittercressCardamine concatenata
(Native)
Cutleaf Toothwortsyn. Cardamine laciniata, Dentaria laciniata, Dentaria concatenata
Cutleaf Toothwort is one of the early spring wildflowers, blooming March through May.
Cutleaf Toothwort
BittercressCardamine dissecta
(Native)
Forkleaf Toothwort, Thread Leafed Toothwort, Fineleaf ToothwortForkleaf Toothwort gets the Forkleaf name because its leaves divide - fork - many times into narrow, untoothed segments. The narrow leaves give it the other common names listed. According to the Wildflower Center, the toothwort common name refers to the tooth-like projections on the underground stems.Forkleaf Toothwort, Thread Leafed Toothwort, Fineleaf Toothwort
BittercressCardamine angustata
(Native)
Slender ToothwortToothworts have previously been classified in the Dentaria genus, but recently, presumably based on DNA testing, have been moved en masse into the Cardamine - bittercress - genus. Many publications still list the plants in Dentaria.

C. agustata - Slender Toothwort - has long-stemmed basal leaves which are broader and more ovate than their single pair of opposing, 3-part stem leaves. The basal leaves are veined (but not as prominently as in C. diphylla) and are toothed. The stem leaves of C. angustata may be toothed or entire. Heterophylla, the species epithet used when this plant was classified in Dentaria, means "different leaves" - either referring to the difference between the stem and basal leaves, or with differences in the appearance of particularly the stem leaves on different plants within the species.

The plant is typically 8 to 16 inches tall. Toothworts grow from a rhizome. One differentiator between C. diphylla and C. angustata is that the rhizome of C. angustata has constrictions forming multiple segments, while the rhizome of C. diphylla is of uniform size. I do not encourage digging up native plants; populations have been lost by that activity.
Slender Toothwort
BittercressCardamine hirsuta
(Introduced)
Hairy Bittercress, Hoary Bittercress, Lamb's Cress, Spring Cress, Flickweed
Hairy Bittercress is a weedy plant of the Mustard family, introduced from Europe and Asia. Frequently found in moist fields, yards, and roadsides, it is one of the earliest bloomers, blooming in January or February. The foliage is edible.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WV
Hairy Bittercress, Hoary Bittercress, Lamb's Cress, Spring Cress, Flickweed
BlackberryRubus argutus
(Native)
Sawtooth Blackberry, Southern Blackberry, Highbush Blackberry The Rubus genus covers blackberries, dewberries, and raspberries. There are 273 species in the North America, according to the USDA Plants Database. Most of these species are not widely distributed or common where they are found. Rubus argutus is one of the more widely distributed species, and is the most commonly found blackberry in the southeastern United States.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Sawtooth Blackberry, Southern Blackberry, Highbush Blackberry
BlackberryRubus flagellaris
(Native)
Northern Dewberry, Common DewberryRubus flagellaris - Northern Dewberry - is plant with a trailing stem running along the ground for up to 15 feet. The stem has scattered hooked prickles, and is green when young, brown when older. The fruiting stems rise from the trailing stem, sometimes rising to 4 feet above the ground. The leaves are compound, usually trifoliate, with the three leaflets having a serrated edge.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Northern Dewberry, Common Dewberry
BlackberryRubus odoratus
(Native)
Purple-flowering Raspberry, ThimbleberryThe clusters of purple flowers with nice maple-shaped leaves make this an an attractive plant, found along roadsides and the edges of fertile forests. It is a shrub that grows thickly, to around 5 feet tall.

Endangered or Threatened in Illinois and Indiana.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, TN, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Purple-flowering Raspberry, Thimbleberry
BlackberryRubus parviflorus
(Native)
Thimbleberry, Western Thimbleberry, Salmonberry, Mountain Sorrel, White Flowering Raspberry, Western Thimble RaspberryWestern Thimbleberry is a native of the western part of the United States, and the north central region as far east as Michigan. There is a disjunct population in Massachusetts; I would suspect that this is a naturalized population rather than indigent.

When I photographed this I had hoped it was Bartonberry - Rubus bartonianus - a Rubus species found only in Hell's Canyon. While similar, the easy access location of this plant (Kleinschmidt Grade) didn't match to any of the known locations of Rubus bartonianus, and the leaves are somewhat different, so that left me with Thimbleberry rather than Bartonberry.

Thimbleberry is also a common name for an eastern Rubus species, Rubus odoratus.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, IA, ID, IL, MA, MI, MN, MT, NM, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WI, WY
Thimbleberry, Western Thimbleberry, Salmonberry, Mountain Sorrel, White Flowering Raspberry, Western Thimble Raspberry
BlackfootMelampodium leucanthum
(Native)
Blackfoot Daisy, Rock Daisy, Plains Blackfoot, ArnicaMelampodium is a fairly small genus, with about 36 species native to North and South America (some introduced in Europe), and 7 species found in North America. 5 of those 7 have yellow ray flowers; only Melampodium cinereum (Hoary Blackfoot), found in the United States only in south Texas, and the species shown here, M. leucanthum (Blackfoot Daisy), have white ray flowers. Blackfoot Daisy has a wider distribution (the widest distribution of any Melapodium in the United States), being found in Texas and 5 other states north and westward. Its range overlaps with M. cinereum in a few Texas counties, and there some plants have intermediate traits, leading some authorities to think they should be classified as a single species. Melampodium leucanthum grows in open grasslands and desert scrublands, blooming as early as March and as late as November at altitudes up to about 8,000 feet.

Found in:
AZ, CO, KS, NM, OK, TX
Blackfoot Daisy, Rock Daisy, Plains Blackfoot, Arnica
BladdernutStaphylea trifolia
(Native)
American BladdernutWalker County, Ga 04/19/2008. The seed capsule is an enlarged green papery-shelled 'bladder', giving it the 'bladdernut' common name.American Bladdernut
BladderwortUtricularia subulata
(Native)
Zigzag Bladderwort, Slender Bladderwort
The Bladderwort family (Lentibulariaceae is made up of 3 genera and somewhere around 300 species of carniivorous herbs. Of these, over 200 species are in the genus Utricularia, but fewer than 30 Utricularia species are found in the United States. The Bladdwort genus - Utricularia - capture tiny insects and protozoans in bladders held in the water or saturated soil in which the plants grow. The Utricularia plant osmotically pumps water out of the bladders, creating an effective vacuum. When the prey bumps a trigger hair, the hair mechanically opens the trap door to the bladder, which sucks in some water along with the victim, which will then be dissolved by secretions from the plant.

Utricularia subulata is described as the most widely distributed species in Utricularia, being found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world in both the northern and southern hemispheres - every continent except Antarctica. It is native and found through much of eastern part of the United States, as well as being naturalized (non-native) in northern California. It grows in wet, acidic areas such as peat bogs, moist sands, ditches, and wet pine savannas. It is found primarily in the coastal plain regions, but can also be found in the interior as far north as Arkansas and Tennessee.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OK, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA
Zigzag Bladderwort, Slender Bladderwort
BlanketflowerGaillardia pulchella
(Native)
Indian Blanket, Indian Blanketflower, FirewheelThere are 12 species of Blanketflower native to the United States, plus a hybrid cultivar (G. xgrandiflora) which has naturalized in several states. At least one species is found in every state, with Gaillardia pulchella being the most widespread of them.

This is a popular species for gardening due the the attractive flowers and hardy nature of the plant, being heat- and drought-tolerant. It is the basis for at least one cultivar. It can flower year round in parts of its range. Native to much of the continential United States, it is an introduced species in Hawaii and Canada. My speculation is that it is likely an introduced plant, perhaps a garden escapee, in Alaska and other parts of its northern range.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI
Indian Blanket, Indian Blanketflower, Firewheel
BlanketflowerGaillardia pinnatifida
(Native)
Red Dome Blanketflower, Hopi Blanketflower, Yellow Gaillardia, Slender Gaillardia, Cutleaf Blanketflower
There are about a dozen species of Blanketflower native to the United States, plus a hybrid cultivar (G. xgrandiflora) which has naturalized in several states. At least one species is found in every state. Most of these are in the western half of the country, and Gaillardia pinnatifida is one of those western species, found in well drained soils of the plains and open forests from Texas north to Kansas and west to Arizona and Nevada. Gaillardia pinnatifida blooms mostly from May through July, but may be found occasionally as early as March and as late as October.

Found in:
AZ, CO, NM, NV, OK, TX, UT
Red Dome Blanketflower, Hopi Blanketflower, Yellow Gaillardia, Slender Gaillardia, Cutleaf Blanketflower
Blazing StarLiatris spicata
(Native)
Dense Blazing Star, Marsh Gayfeather, Spike GayfeatherLiatris spicata is found in most of the eastern half of the United States, primarily east of the Mississippi River. The populations that are found west of the Mississippi are likely the result of naturalization from garden escapees. There are two varieties: var. resinosa and var. spicata. Var. resinosa is found in the coastal plains of the southeast, and is differentiated primarily by narrower leaves than in var. spicata, and more abrupt change from relatively wider leaves in the lower have of the stem to nearly linear, bractlike leaves in the upper stem.

Most likely to be found flowering in July thru September, it is found in a variety of habitats where it can receive full sun or perhaps a bit of shade. It is tolerant of a range of soil and moisture conditions, but probably most commonly seen on road margins. It is a good addition to native plant gardens.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WI, WV
Dense Blazing Star, Marsh Gayfeather, Spike Gayfeather
Bleeding HeartDicentra eximia
(Native)
Wild Bleeding Heart, Eastern Bleeding Heart, Turkey CornDicentra is a genus of about 20 species, of which 7 to 11 are found in North America, depending on which authorities you follow (and whether you include the highly cultivated Dicentra spectabilis species - which may now be classified as Lamprocapnos spectabilis.) Dicentra eximia is one of 3 or 4 species found in the eastern United States (Dicentra formosa may occasionally be found in the wild as a garden escapee, but those populations are unlikely to persist.)

While many publications refer to Dicentra eximia by the common name Turkey Corn, in my experience I've always heard it referred to as Bleeding Heart. Since the range of this lovely plant is on cliffs, rock outcrops, and rocky slopes of the Appalachian Mountains from New York south to South Carolina and Georgia, it is possible that it is called Turkey Corn in the northern part of its range. There are reports of disjunct populations in Illinois and Michigan, as well as outside of the Appalachians in other more eastern states. These are likely to be garden escapees rather than native or long-established naturalized populations since Dicentra eximia is a widely cultivated plant.

Synonyms: Fumaria eximia, Bicuculla eximia

Found in:
GA, IL, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV, GS
Wild Bleeding Heart, Eastern Bleeding Heart, Turkey Corn
Bleeding HeartDicentra canadensis
(Native)
Squirrel Corn, Wild turkey-pea, Turkey Corn, Colicweed, Ghost Corn, Lyre FlowerDicentra is a genus of about 20 species, of which 7 to 11 are found in North America, depending on which authorities you follow (and whether you include the highly cultivated, non-native Dicentra spectabilis species - which may now be classified as Lamprocapnos spectabilis.) Dicentra canadensis is one of 3 or 4 species found in the eastern United States (Dicentra formosa - Pacific Bleeding Heart, native to the far western U.S. - may occasionally be found wild in the east as a garden escapee, but those populations are unlikely to persist.)

Dicentra canadensis (Squirrel Corn) is found in rich forest coves of eastern North America as far south as northern Georgia (in the mountains) and perhaps in South Carolina. It is protected as Threatened, Endangered, or Of Special Concern in Connecticut, Maine, Minnesota (due to habitat threat by invasive species), New Hampshire, and New Jersey. It blooms in April and May.

The plant has yellow underground corms shaped like corn kernels, providing the most commonly used common name of Squirrel Corn.

Found in:
CT, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Squirrel Corn, Wild turkey-pea, Turkey Corn, Colicweed, Ghost Corn, Lyre Flower
BloodrootSanguinaria canadensis
(Native)
Bloodroot, Red Indian Paint, Red PuccoonSanguinaria is a monotypic genus - Bloodroot is the only species in it. It is one of about 60 - 65 species in the Poppy family (Papaveraceae) in North America. It is found only in North America. It is most closely related to Eomecon chionantha, a plant native to China which has the common name of Snow Poppy or Dawn Poppy.

Sanguinaria canadensis (syn. Sanguinaria australis) is a beautiful, white, early spring wildflower. Bloodroot gets its name from the red juice of the root, caused by the compound sanguinarine. While sanguinarine has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal characteristics, it can be toxic, so do not ingest it.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Bloodroot, Red Indian Paint, Red Puccoon
Blue Eyed MaryCollinsia parviflora
(Native)
Blue-eyed Mary, Maiden Blue Eyed Mary, Smallflower Blue Eyed MaryWhile there are a couple of Collinsia - Blue-eyed Mary - species found in the eastern United States, most of the 19 species found in the U.S. are western plants. Of those in the west, Collinsia parviflora has the broadest distribution, and is even found in a few eastern states, and throughout much of Canada.

Maiden Blue-eyed Mary is Threatened in Michigan.

Collinsia has recently been reclassified, moved from Scrophulariaceae - Figwort family - into Plantaginaceae - Plantain family.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, ID, MA, MI, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, OR, PA, SD, UT, VT, WA, WY
Blue-eyed Mary, Maiden Blue Eyed Mary, Smallflower Blue Eyed Mary
Blue Eyed MaryCollinsia verna
(Native)
Blue Eyed Mary, Spring Blue-eyed Mary, Eastern Blue Eyed Mary, Innocence, Lady-by-the-Lake
While many publications still list the Collinsia genus in Scrophulariaceae - the Figwort family (aka Snapdragon family) - it has more recently been classified within the Plantains - Plantaginaceae.

Most of the Collinsia species are found in the western part of the United States. Collinsia verna is one of only a couple found in the east, and this is the only one with widespread distribution in the east. This species is native to Tennessee, but the plants photographed here are from a long-naturalized population in Hamilton County, TN. The USDA Plants Database doesn't list it as found in Alabama, but the Alabama Plant Atlas, published by the Alabama Herbarium Consortium and The University of West Alabama do list it in Colbert County in northwest Alabama. The genus is named for Zacchaeus Collins, an early 19th-century botanist.

Found in:
AL, AR, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MO, NY, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, WI, WV
Blue Eyed Mary, Spring Blue-eyed Mary, Eastern Blue Eyed Mary, Innocence, Lady-by-the-Lake
Blue-eyed GrassSisyrinchium angustifolium
(Native)
Blue-eyed Grass, Stout Blue-eyed Grass, Narrowleaf Blue-eyed GrassThis beautiful member of the Lily family has grass-like winged stems frequently growing in clumps. The lovely blue flowers with yellow centers are at the end of the grass-like stems. Blue-eyed Grass, Stout Blue-eyed Grass, Narrowleaf Blue-eyed Grass
Blue-eyed GrassSisyrinchium mucronatum
(Native)
Needletip Blue-eyed Grass, Michaux's Blue-eyed-Grass, Slender Blue-eyed Grass, Narrow-Leaved Blue-eyed-GrassSisyrinchium is a very confusing genus, even among botanists - much more to a rank hobbyist as myself. Based on the following criteria, I'm calling this S. Mucronatum:
  • Purplish spathe
  • USDA database has this one in Walker County, Ga, where I photographed it. The other species that are possibles in Walker County because they may have purple coloring in the spathes are:
    • S. atlanticum - general plant formation does not seem to match my plant, and the spathes only occasionally have a purple tinge, where as this plant has more than just a tinge.
    • S. capillare - USDA has no county information on this species, so I do not know if it is in Walker or nearby counties, and has even narrower stems than S. mucronatum.
    • S. nashii - Wider stems than S. mucronatum, and the purplish tinge in the spathes are only on the margins.
  • This plant has narrower stems than most of the Sisyrinchiums I've seen around here, which I believe to be S. angustifolium. However, the stems in this plant may be too wide for S. mucronatum, which still leaves me with some doubt in this identification, with the most likely alternative identification to be S. nashii.


There are 41 Blue-eyed Grass species listed in the USDA Plants Database, with every state in the union having at least one species. Sisyrinchium mucronatum is found throughout much of the eastern United States and Canada, but is protected as Endangered or of Special Concern in Maine, Massachusetts, New York, and Ohio. It flowers in late spring and early summer.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, GA, IL, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Needletip Blue-eyed Grass, Michaux's Blue-eyed-Grass, Slender Blue-eyed Grass, Narrow-Leaved Blue-eyed-Grass
BluebeadClintonia borealis
(Native)
Blue-bead Lily, Yellow Corn Lily, Yellow ClintoniaClintonia borealis is one of four species of Clintonia found in the United States; all are native. C. borealis and C. umbellata are found in the eastern half, while C. andrewsiana and C. uniflora are found in the west.

A similar species is Clintonia umbellata (White Clintonia, Speckled Wood Lily). Clintona borealis has a yellow-green flower, with usually 3 to 8 of them in the raceme, while Clintona umbellata is white, usually speckled, with 10 to 24 in an umbel. Clintonia umbellata may have narrower leaves than borealis,and while borealis may have a few hairs on the margins, umbellata has many.

Found in:
CT, GA, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Blue-bead Lily, Yellow Corn Lily, Yellow Clintonia
BluebeadClintonia umbellulata
(Native)
White Clintonia, Clinton's Lily, Speckled WoodlilyClintonia is a small genus of only 5 species, 4 of which are native to North America - the other one is Asian. Two of the North American species are western, the other two are more eastern. Clintonia umbellulata is a species primarily of the Appalachian Mountains, found from north Georgia and South Carolina northward to western New York. It is a protected plant in New York and Ohio. The other eastern species is Clintonia borealis, which is found at higher elevations of the Appalachian Mountains in the southern end of its range (also north Georgia and South Carolina) but is much more widespread and at lower elevations in the northern tier of states.

Found in:
GA, KY, MD, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
White Clintonia, Clinton's Lily, Speckled Woodlily
BluebellsMertensia virginica
(Native)
Virginia BluebellsVirginia Bluebell is a showy, early spring wildflower found through most of the eastern United States.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WI, WV
Virginia Bluebells
BlueberryVaccinium elliottii
(Native)
Elliott's Blueberry, Mayberry, High Bush BlueberryThere is much variability in the classification of blueberries and their relatives. Some authorities place them in several different genera, and others place them all in Vaccinium, subdividing it into several sections. Broadly described, Vaccinium includes blueberries, cranberries, and bilberries, and may include as many as 500 species worldwide. There are some other "berry" common names applied to Vaccinium as well, such as deerberry and huckleberry - both of those may also be applied to species in other genera as well. Since they are similar in appearance and can hybridize, identification can be difficult; fortunately the fine folks at the Wolf Creek Trout Lily Preserve had already identified these.

Elliott's Blueberry is a true blueberry in the sense that it is in the Cyanococcus section of Vaccinium; for those who subscribe to the narrower classifications, it is classified by some as Cyanococcus elliottii. It is primarily a species of the coastal plains of the southeastern United States, growing in bottomlands and on sandy slopes near rivers primarily in coastal plains from Virginia south to Florida and west to Texas. It is also found in Coffee County, Tennessee (certainly NOT a coastal plain), where that disjunct population is Endangered.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA
Elliott's Blueberry, Mayberry, High Bush Blueberry
BlueheartsBuchnera americana
(Native)
Blue Hearts, American Bluehearts, Prairie Bluehearts, Plains BlueheartsFinding consistent information on the Buchnera genus has been somewhat difficult. It has been classified in the Scrophulariaceae family (Figworts), but as that family is being dismantled, Buchnera most recently has been placed in Orobanchaceae (Broomrape family), possibly in part due to its hemiparasitic nature - it gets some nourishment from the roots of other plants (no one plant species in particular), but also produces its own nourishment through photosynthesis. There are 138 species of Buchnera worldwide (from The Plant List), with several of them found in North America. Two Buchnera species are found only in a single state each - Hawaii has the introduced species Buchnera pusilla and Arizona has Buchnera obliqua. There is some dispute as to the identity of a species found in some southeastern states - either Buchnera longifolia or Buchnera floridana, depending on which authority to which you subscribe.

Buchnera americana is the most widely distributed North American species in the genus, and is found historically in 24 states. It now has protected status or is no longer present in at least 7 of them, perhaps in as many as 13 states. It is also very rare in Canada, being found only in a small area of Ontario, where it has Endangered status.

Found (at least historically) in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA
Blue Hearts, American Bluehearts, Prairie Bluehearts, Plains Bluehearts
BluetsHoustonia caerulea
(Native)
Quaker Ladies, Azure Bluet, BluetsSmall plant with mostly basal leaves; stem leaves are opposite and quite small. Can form large colonies.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Quaker Ladies, Azure Bluet, Bluets
BluetsHoustonia pusilla
(Native)
Tiny Bluet, Small Bluet, Least BluetThese tiny plants can be easy to miss when blooming single, but even with their 2 to 4 inch height, they're hard to miss with the frequent masses blooming together.Tiny Bluet, Small Bluet, Least Bluet
BluetsHoustonia purpurea
(Native)
Venus' Pride, Large Bluet, Large Houstonia, Summer Bluet, Purple BluetHoustonia purpurea is in a group of Houstonia species with multiple flowers in the inflorescence - subgenus Chamisme. My experience with Bluets prior to identifying this plant was with the smaller bluets with solitary flowers on usually terminal pedicels - H. caerulea and H. pusilla. Two of the three varieties of this species, H. purpurea var. purpurea and var. calycosa, are found throughout much of the eastern half of the United States. The third variety, var. montana - Roan Mountain Bluet - is found only in a small area of the Appalachian Mountains on the Tennessee / North Carolina border.

Houstonia purpurea var. montana is a U.S. endangered species. Some authorities recognize it as a separate species, Houstonia montana. While the other two varieties can be quite common in parts of their ranges, var. calycosa is listed as Endangered in New York, and var. purpurea is Endangered in North Carolina. Var. purpurea is presented in these photographs.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WV
Venus' Pride, Large Bluet, Large Houstonia, Summer Bluet, Purple Bluet
BluetsHoustonia serpyllifolia
(Native)
Creeping Bluet, Mountain Bluet, Thymeleaf Bluet, Appalachian Bluet, Michaux's BluetsThere are about 18 species of Houstonia found in North America, mostly in the east and the south, with Texas having the honor of the most species. Houstonia serpyllifolia has a relatively narrow distribution, found in the Appalachian Mountains from Pennsylvania (perhaps historically only) south to extreme northeast Georgia and western South Carolina. It is Rare (or Extirpated) in Pennsylvania, protected as a State Endangered Species in Kentucky, and is on the State Watch List in Maryland.

This is normally a late spring through early summer blooming species, but these were photographed in a south-facing rock bluff at about 6000' in September.

Found in:
GA, KY, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Creeping Bluet, Mountain Bluet, Thymeleaf Bluet, Appalachian Bluet, Michaux's Bluets
BroomrapeOrobanche uniflora
(Native)
One-flowered Broomrape ; One-flowered Cancer Root, Ghostpipe, Naked BroomrapeNot having knowingly encountered this parasitic plant previously, I was surprised to find that it is found in every state in the United States except for Hawaii. It's also found in much of Canada. It may attach its feeder roots to the roots of many different species of plants.

Plants of the genus Orobanche are classified as a noxious weed or similar pest plant in the United States federally and in 9 states specifically, but there is an exception for native species in all cases but two states (Massachusetts and Florida), and Florida specifically excludes Orobanche uniflora from its noxious weed list, which leaves only Massachusetts with a negative classification for One-flowered Broomrape.

An explanation of the somewhat unfortunate name is probably appropriate. "Broom" is an old-world name for vetches and other similar legumes, which are among the plants which Orobanche parasitize. A "rapum" is a term for a knob of roots, to which Orobanche attach to perform their nefarious parisitic activities.

Synonyms: Thalesia uniflora, Aphyllon uniflorum, Orobanche porphyrantha, Orobanche purpurea, Orobanche sedii, Orobanche terrae-novae. Weakley classifies this plant as Aphyllon uniflorum in his esteemed Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States (2015), and that change - return; it has bounced between Orobanche and Aphyllon over the years since 1753 - that change seems to be generally accepted now based on a paper published in 2016 by Adam C. Schneider.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
One-flowered Broomrape ; One-flowered Cancer Root, Ghostpipe, Naked Broomrape
BuckeyeAesculus flava
(Native)
Yellow Buckeye, Sweet Buckeye, Yellow Horsechestnut, Common BuckeyeAesculus flava (syn. Aesculus octandra) - Yellow Buckeye - is the largest of the 6 or native species of Buckeye found in North America, growing to 100' tall (there are another half-dozen or so species native to Asia and Europe.) It grows in rich forests from lower elevations all the way up to mountain tops within its range - generally the Ohio Valley and southern Appalachians, and is one of the most common trees in the southern Appalachians. I know it more from young trees, because they are easy to spot in the understory with the palmate leaf structure and showy flowers. I didn't realize until researching for this description that there are two more Buckeyes within the range of Yellow Buckeye that may also have yellow blossoms - Aeculus sylvatica (Painted Buckeye) and Aesculus glabra - Ohio Buckeye. Some key diagnostics are mentioned with the photos below.

Found in:
AL, DC, GA, IL, IN, KY, MD, MS, NC, NJ, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV, GS
Yellow Buckeye, Sweet Buckeye, Yellow Horsechestnut, Common Buckeye
BugbaneCimicifuga racemosa
(Native)
Black Cohosh, Black Bugbane, Black Baneberry, Black Snakeroot, Fairy CandleSyn. Actaea racemosa. Black Cohosh is well-known for medicinal uses; as with many plants with medicinal value, it is also poisonous if not used properly. The plant is up to about 8 or 10 feet tall, branching with several inflorescences on each plant. It is quite distinctive; I've read it described as "stately," and I agree. It is found in eastern North America from Canada south to central Georgia in the United States.

Actaea racemosa was originally classified in the Actaea genus by Linnaeus, but Nuttall reclassifed it to Cimicifuga based on the follicles. However, a 1998 study by James A. Compton, Alastair Culham, and Stephen L. Jury, using DNA testing and other techniques, has recommended that the genus should be considered part of the Actaea genus. If considered separate, the Actaea genus is Baneberry with four species; the Cimicifuga genus is Bugbane containing six species. USDA uses the Actaea; ITIS.gov uses the Cimicifuga classification. When there is conflict, I use the ITIS classification. UPDATE 02/17/2016: ITIS has changed their classification of this species to Actaea sometime in the past few years. At some point I'll change this record on USWildflowers.com.

It is classified as Endangered in Illinois and Massachusetts.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Black Cohosh, Black Bugbane, Black Baneberry, Black Snakeroot, Fairy Candle
BugbaneTrautvetteria caroliniensis
(Native)
Tassel Rue, False Bugbane, Carolina BugbaneSome experts consider Trautvetteria caroliniensis - Carolina Bugbane - to be monotypic, although other authorities consider there to be 4 to 6 species in the genus. While some authorities recognize three varities of Trautvetteria caroliniensis - var. caroliniensis in the eastern U.S., var. borealis in the western U.S., and var. japonica in Asia. There is disagreement even on that classification, and most authorities consider the plants in these three disjunct geographical regions to be the same species, since the differences between the varieties seemed primarily to be geographic. There also appears to perhaps be an as-yet unnamed new species in the genus which has been found in Claiborne County, Tennessee.
Trautvetteria caroliniensis is protected with a Rare classification in Pennsylvania, and is likely extirpated in Indiana.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KY, MD, MO, MS, MT, NC, NM, OR, PA, SC, TN, UT, VA, WA, WV, WY
Tassel Rue, False Bugbane, Carolina Bugbane
BundleflowerDesmanthus illinoensis
(Native)
Prairie Mimosa, Illinois Bundleflower, Prickleweed, Illinois DesmanthusWhile there are 14 species of Bundleflower (Desmanthus) in the United States, Desmanthus illinoensis - Prairie Mimosa - has by far the widest distribution. Most species are limited to one or two states each, with a handful in a few more states than that, but Desmanthus illinoensis is found in 29 states in the south and central parts of the United States. Texas has the prize with the most Desmanthus species, with 10 species found in the state.

Syn. Acuan illinoense; Mimosa illinoensis

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, DC, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NM, NV, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI
Prairie Mimosa, Illinois Bundleflower, Prickleweed, Illinois Desmanthus
Bur CucumberSicyos angulatus
(Native)
Bur Cucumber, Oneseed Bur Cucumber; Star CucumberWhile there are several species in Sicyos in the United States, Sicyos angulatus is the most widespread. The others are found in only 1 or 2 states (Sicyos ampelophyllus in 3), but Sycyos angulatus is found in 37 states and in Canada as well - clearly another of the few species in the Cucumber Family (Cucurbitaceae) found in temperate climates. Bur Cucumber is considered a noxious weed in Delaware, Indiana, and Kentucky.

This vine grows up to 25' long and may have multiple stems. It has branched tendrils which allow it to climb over fences and other plants.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Bur Cucumber, Oneseed Bur Cucumber; Star Cucumber
BurnetSanguisorba minor
(Introduced)
Small Burnet, Salad burnet, Garden burnetBurnet means brown - color of the post-mature flower heads. Salad Burnet is one of the common names, because the plant was brough over from Europe as a food - it is used in salads, drinks, and dressings, and is reported to have a cucumber-like flavor.

The plant is eaten not only by humans, but also the seeds or foliage are eaten by birds, elk, deer, rodents, hares, and rabbits, and is a valuable food source for these animals. In spite of being non-native, it does not appear to be aggressive in crowding out native species.

Found in:

AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, ID, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MT, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Small Burnet, Salad burnet, Garden burnet
Bush HoneysuckleDiervilla rivularis
(Native)
Mountain Bush Honeysuckle, Hairy Bush honeysuckle, Riverbank Bush HoneysuckleThis is one of only three species of Diervilla - Bush Honeysuckle. Officially listed as Threatened in Tennessee, Mountain Bush Honeysuckle seems to be even rarer in Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina, the only other states where it is recorded. According to USDA Plants Database, found only in Dade County in Georgia, Yancey County in North Carolina, five counties in Tennessee. The USDA does not have a county distribution map for Alabama, but the Alabama Plant Atlas shows it only in Cherokee and Blount counties in Alabama. There is a report from the Southern Appalachian Botanical Society that indicates it as being collected at Lula Falls in Walker County, Georgia in 1888. That is probably 10 or 15 miles from where I photographed this plant in Cloudland Canyon State Park, in Dade County, Georgia.

Found in:
AL, GA, NC, TN
Mountain Bush Honeysuckle, Hairy Bush honeysuckle, Riverbank Bush Honeysuckle
ButtercupRanunculus bulbosus
(Introduced)
Bulbous ButtercupWalker County, Ga 04/06/2009Bulbous Buttercup
ButtercupRanunculus abortivus
(Native)
Littleleaf Buttercup, Littleleaf CrowfootI may not be putting too many Buttercup (genus Ranunculus) species here on USWildflowers.com. It's not that I don't run across them often; it's just that with the number of different species - the USDA lists 93 species in the United States - and with many species looking very similar to others in the genus, it takes a lot of effort and research to narrow it down to a specific species. This one, for example, I've been working on off and on for nearly a year. I originally thought it was the native Hooked Buttercup (Ranunculus recurvatus.) But then I noticed the achene beak on the plant I was researching was not nearly long enough to be Hooked Buttercup. My next choice was an introduced species, Smallflower Buttercup (Ranunculus parviflorus) which has a hooked beak on the achene, but much shorter than in R. recurvatus. However, R. parviflorus has a hispid (bristly-hairy) stem; the plant I was working on has a glabrous (hairless) stem. I finally settled on the native Buttercup Ranunculus abortivus - Littleleaf Buttercup. There may have been other, similar small-flowered Buttercups that I eliminated because they aren't found in northwest Georgia, so if you're trying to identify one outside that area, this might not be your species. But if you call it a Hooked Buttercup, who's going to argue with you?

Ranunculus abortivus is found in all but six states:
AK, AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Littleleaf  Buttercup, Littleleaf Crowfoot
ButtercupRanunculus glaberrimus
(Native)
Sagebrush Buttercup, Shiny-leaved Buttercup, Early Buttercup, Elliptical Buttercup
Ranunculus - Buttercup - is a large genus of over 300 species worldwide, and over 75 in North America. There are Ranunculus species in every state in the United States. The genus name comes from the Latin for little frog, since many species prefer wet environments, as do frogs. Indeed, some Ranunculus are aquatic.

Ranunculus glaberrimus is a plant of the western half of the United States and Canada. There are two varieties, var. glaberrimus, which has narrower distribution and grows in drier areas than var. ellipticus, which not only has a wider distribution, but may grow at higher elevations. The Nlakapamuk native Americans rubbed the flower and plant of Ranunculus glaberrimus on their arrows to poison the tips - like many Ranunculus species, this species is poisonous, particularly to livestock, although the poison is rendered harmless when the plant is dried or boiled. Ranunculus glaberrimus is among the earliest blooming wildflowers in its range.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY
Sagebrush Buttercup, Shiny-leaved Buttercup, Early Buttercup, Elliptical Buttercup
Butterfly PeaCentrosema virginianum
(Native)
Spurred Butterfly Pea, Climbing Butterfly Pea, Wild Blue Vine, Virginia Centro, ButterflypeaThere are about 40 species of Centrosema worldwide; 3 are found in the continental United States. 2 of those are found only in Florida (a native species, C. arenicola, and an introduced species, C. sagittatum.) There are also 2 additional Centrosema species found in Puerto Rico; 1 of those is also in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Centrosema virginianum, Spurred Butterfly Pea, is found in 18 states, Puerto Rico, and the USVI.

It is primarily a plant of the southeastern U.S., but is found as far north as Illinois and New Jersey. It is Endangered in New Jersey. Since this is the only Centrosema species in most of its range, and it is similar to Clitoria mariana, is it most confused with that species. These plants share the trait of having the standard lower than the other petals; most legumes have the standard held above the other petals.

Found in:
AL, AR, DE, FL, GA, IL, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA
Spurred Butterfly Pea, Climbing Butterfly Pea, Wild Blue Vine, Virginia Centro, Butterflypea
ButtonbushCephalanthus occidentalis
(Native)
Buttonbush, Common Buttonbush, Button Ball, Riverbush, Honey-bells, Button WillowWhile there are 17 species in the Cephalanthus genus worldwide, there are only two species of Buttonbush found in the United States. Mexican Buttonbush, Cephalanthus salicifolius is native to a couple of the southernmost counties in Texas, the only state in the U.S. in which it is found. The species presented here, Common Buttonbush - Cephalanthus occidentalis - is found throughout the eastern United States and Canada, as far west as Nebraska and Texas, and is also found in Arizona and California. (I find it curious that it makes the jump from Texas to Arizona, but is apparently not found in New Mexico, which lies between those two states.) Some authorities recognize two varieties, with the western variety known as California Buttonbush.

Common Buttonbush is a wetland shrub or small tree which can grow to nearly 10 feet tall along the banks of streams, ponds, lakes, marshes, and in other wetland areas. The bark contains a poison that will cause vomiting, paralysis, and convulsions if eaten.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Buttonbush, Common Buttonbush, Button Ball, Riverbush, Honey-bells, Button Willow
ButtonweedDiodia virginiana
(Native)
Virginia Buttonweed, Large Buttonweed, Poor JoeThere are 8 species of Diodia - Buttonweed - found in the United States, although only four of these are found in the "states proper" - the other 4 species are found in the U.S. Territories of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Two species found on the mainland are native to the United States - Diodia teres (common names Rough Buttonweed and Poor Joe,) and this species – Virginia Buttonweed, Diodia virginiana.

While this plant is officially listed as Threatened or Endangered in Indiana and New Jersey, it also is considered a weed by some authorities, and I can attest to its weediness, with the example here photographed in an area it had taken over in a small garden patch we had. It is noteworthy, however, that it was subsequently pushed out by the much more aggressive non-native invasive Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea.) Virginia Buttonweed is a branching, sprawling plant with opposite leaves.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Virginia Buttonweed, Large Buttonweed, Poor Joe
ButtonweedDiodia teres
(Native)
Rough Buttonweed, Poor JoeDiodia teres is a wildflower many consider to be a weed. While it can be a creeping plant with reclining stems, in my experience it is more likely to be upright than its equally invasive cousin, Virginia Buttonweed (D. virginiana).

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Rough Buttonweed, Poor Joe
CalamintClinopodium glabellum
(Native)
Glade Savory, Glade Calamint, Glade Wild Basil, Ozark CalamintThe genus Clinopodium is in flux; depending on whether you, as many authorities do, include various other genera in the Mint family such as Satureja (Satureja glabella var. glabella is a synonym for Clinopodium glabellum, as is Calamintha glabella), Acinos, Calamintha, and more, estimates of the number of species in the genus range from 20 to around 100. The genus has member species around the globe, and even narrowly circumscribed the several species found in the United States are spread across the nation, although most species individually have relatively narrow distribution.

Clinopodium glabellum (Glade Savory) is one of those narrowly distributed species, a small plant found in limestone glades in only three states - a couple of counties in Alabama, a several counties in central Tennessee, and a few counties in northern Kentucky. Although the USDA map to the right shows it in Virginia, most authoritative sources believe those reports are due to common confusion with the very similar and much more widely distributed Clinopodium arkansanum (Arkansas Calamint). That confusion probably also explains the common name shown in the USDA Plants database - Ozark Calamint, even though the (erroneous) range shown by the USDA doesn't include any part of the Ozarks. C. arkansanum has leafy stolons while C. glabellum does not. The stem leaves of C. arkansanum are smaller than those of C. glabellum, and perhaps the easiest diagnostic between the two are that the flowering stem leaves of C. arkansanum are entire (without teeth or lobes) while those of C. glabellum have a few teeth.

Found in:
AL, KY, TN
Glade Savory, Glade Calamint, Glade Wild Basil, Ozark Calamint
California PoppyEschscholzia californica
(Native)
California PoppyIn spite of the beauty of its blossom, the California Poppy is considered to be a weed by many people. Native to North America, scattered wild populations of this plant are found in most states. However, since it was first collected on a Russian exploratory voyage to the west coast of North America in the early 19th century, it is likely that most of the eastern populations are the result of seeds and plants brought back from the west, rather than from native populations in those areas.

The California Poppy is the state flower of California.
California Poppy
CaltropTribulus cistoides
(Introduced)
Jamaican Feverplant, Nohu, False Puncture Vine, Spiny-fruited Caltrop
Tribulus is a small genus of around 25 species of the tropics and subtropics, although the exact number is not determined with some authorities recognizing only 7 with up to 70 species and subspecies being under review. There is some dispute as to whether any Tribulus species are native to the Americas, and especially the United States, but the University of Hawaii lists Tribulus cistoides as indigenous to the Hawaiian Islands, and it seems likely that other species are native to the tropics of North America. No species are native to the continental United States, but one other species has also been introduced and survives in parts of the country. Tribulus terrestris is widely spread throughout the United States, especially in the drier western states, and may be the most widely distributed Tribulus species in the world. This may be partly due to its use as a dietary supplement reported to increase testosterone levels. It is a problem weed in parts of the country.

While Tribulus cistoides may be native to Hawaii, it is introduced and has relatively small distribution in the rest of the country, being found only in a few southeastern states, with the widest distribution in Florida - it is primarily a tropical species. According to the University of Florida Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants Tribulus cistoides is used medicinally for headaches, nervous disorders, and constipation.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, TX
Jamaican Feverplant, Nohu, False Puncture Vine, Spiny-fruited Caltrop
CamasCamassia scilloides
(Native)
Wild Hyacinth; Atlantic CamasWild Hyacinth, also known as Atlantic Camas and Eastern Camas. Atlantic Camas is the "official" national name, according to the USDA Plants Database. It grows in rich, shady, moist coves. The blooming period lasts for several weeks in April and May. Wild Hyacinth; Atlantic Camas
CamasCamassia quamash
(Native)
Small Camas, QuamashThis plant blooms in early to mid-spring and grows in moist meadows and on grassy slopes. The ones photographed here were in a marshy area along a stream at an elevation of around 5300 feet. The bulbs of the plant are edible and were used as a significant food source for native Americans. However, the bulbs look similar to those of Death Camas - the name of that plant is indicative of its poisonous nature - so beware!

Camassia quamash is found in the Rocky Mountain and west coast states.

Found in:
CA, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Small Camas, Quamash
Cat's EarHypochaeris radicata
(Introduced)
Hairy Cat's Ear, False DandelionYellow aster with blooms at the end of smooth stem, rising from a floret of hairy dandelion-like basal leaves. Other common names are common cat's-ear, false dandelion, frogbit, gosmore, and spotted catsear. Hairy Cat's Ear, False Dandelion
CatchflySilene virginica
(Native)
Fire Pink, Scarlet Catchfly

Fire Pink has a strikingly beautiful scarlet red springtime blossom.

Silene virginica is listed as Endangered or Threatened in Florida, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

There are two other Silene species with scarlet flowers and similar ranges - Silene rotundifolia (Roundleaf Catchfly) and Silene regia (Royal Catchfly.) S. rotundifolia has the smallest distribution - AL, GA, KY, OH, TN, WV, with S. regia being found in most those states plus AR, IL, IN, KS, MO (not in WV.) S. virginica has the widest distribution, being found in most of the eastern United States. Royal Catchfly does not have the deeply notched petals of the other two species, and is a taller plant. For the other two species, the stamens and styles are also more exserted in S. virginica than in S. rotundifolia. The veining in the calyx of S. virginica is more distinct. The shape of the flower petals are somewhat different as well, but the leaf shape may be the most obvious difference between the species. S. rotundifolia, as indicated by the species epithet, has much more rounded leaves than S. virginica.

Two more scarlet Silene species occur west and south of the eastern scarlet species:
  • Silene plankii - endemic to central New Mexico, a small area of a single county in the tip of western Texas, and into the Sierra del Carmen in Coahuila, Mexico.
  • Silene laciniata (Cardinal Catchfly, Mexican Pink), which is large-flowered with deeply lobed petals. Various subspecies occur from western Texas through New Mexico and Arizona on to the cliffs of Santa Cruz Island of California, as well as in Mexico.


Found in:
AL, AR, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, VA, WI, WV
Fire Pink, Scarlet Catchfly
CatchflySilene rotundifolia
(Native)
Roundleaf CatchflyI originally identified this as Silene virginica - Fire Pink, but S. virginica has narrower petals, and doesn't have the pronounced 'second spike' along the outer edge of the petal. The USDA Plants Database doesn't have this listed near Polk County, TN, where I photographed this specimen, and I don't have photographs of the rest of the plant, but I have a reasonably high level of confidence in that identificaiton. Roundleaf Catchfly
CatchflySilene stellata
(Native)
Starry Campion, Widow's FrillStarry Campion is listed as of Special Concern in Connecticut, Threatened in Michigan, apparently no longer occurs in Rhode Island based on its Historical classification.Starry Campion, Widow's Frill
CatchflySilene regia
(Native)
Royal CatchflyRoyal Catchfly - Silene regia is a plant of rocky prairies, glades, and open woods with attractive scarlet red flowers. It appears similar to Fire Pink - Silene virginica - but Silene regia has a much smaller distribution - 12 states, and in 6 of those states it is protected due to its rarity, having Rare, Endangered, or Threatened status. It is possible that it has no longer survived in Knox County, the only county in Tennessee where it was found. The photographs on this page were taken at what may be the only remaining site for Royal Catchfly in the state of Georgia - thanks to Alan Cressler for the information on this location.

The flowers are also somewhat similar to those of both Silene rotundifolia and Silene virginica, but Silene regia is a taller plant and the petals are much more shallowly notched, or perhaps not notched at all.

Two more scarlet Silene species occur west and south of the eastern scarlet species:
  • Silene plankii - endemic to central New Mexico, a small area of a single county in the tip of western Texas, and into the Sierra del Carmen in Coahuila, Mexico.
  • Silene laciniata (Cardinal Catchfly, Mexican Pink), which is large-flowered with deeply lobed petals. Various subspecies occur from western Texas through New Mexico and Arizona on to the cliffs of Santa Cruz Island of California, as well as in Mexico.


Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MO, OH, OK, TN
Royal Catchfly
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CatchflySilene latifolia
(Introduced)
White Campion, White Cockle, Evening LychnisSilene latifolia is part of the large Silene genus, which has about 700 species worldwide; 70 in North America. These numbers include plants that were previously classified in the genera Lychnis, Melandrium, and Viscaria. S. latifolia, White Campion, was Classified as Lychnis alba until fairly recently, and has also been classified as a Melandrium species in the past.

White Campion, which blooms in the summer and fall, was introduced into North America from its native Europe, and has spread across most of the United States except for a few southern states, and across Canada except for a few northern provinces since then. It is similar to Silene vulgaris - Bladder Campion - and some publications have apparently mistakenly applied the name Silene latifolia or Silene latifolia var. alba to Silene vulgaris.

Found in:
AL, AZ, AK, CA, CO, CT, DE, DC, GA, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
White Campion, White Cockle, Evening Lychnis
CeanothusCeanothus americanus
(Native)
New Jersey Tea, Wild Snowball, Mountain Sweet, RedrootThere are around 55 to 65 species in Ceanothus, all in North America, but only 3 are found east of the Mississippi. Those three are the species presented on this page - New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus) and Jersey Tea (Ceanothus herbaceus), both of which are fairly widespread on both sides of the Mississippi, and Littleleaf Buckbrush (Ceanothus microphyllus), which is found only in southern Alabama, southern Georgia, and in Florida. Most of the other Ceanothus species are endemic to California. Ceanothus americanus is a shrub found in every state east and nine states west of the Mississippi River. It is Threatened in Maine.

The leaves of the plant can be dried and used to make a tea which was a common substitute for Chinese tea during the American Revolutionary period when imported tea had such high tax rates.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
New Jersey Tea, Wild Snowball, Mountain Sweet, Redroot
ChicoryCichorium intybus
(Introduced)
ChicoryRoadside, McMinn County, TN. Also seen in Hamilton, Bradley, Sequatchie Counties. 06/13/2009Chicory
ChrysogonumChrysogonum virginianum
(Native)
Green and GoldChrysogonum is a monospecific genus native to the eastern United States. In the past some authorities have separated the genus into two species based, I think, on whether or not the plant was stoloniferous - C. virginianum, without stolons, and C. australe, stoloniferous.) Now the plant is classified into three varieties:

  • C. virginianum var. virginianum is non-stoloniferous. It is the shortest of the varieties, with the leafy clumps growing up to about 16 inches high, and the flowering stems can reach 2 feet. The early flowering stems do not have leaves, but later stems are leafy. It is a more northern variety, with little or no overlap with var. australe. It is sometimes known as Northern Green and Gold or Virginia Green and Gold.
  • var. brevistolon is the intermediate variety, including its range, which overlaps with both of the other varieties. It has stolons with shorter stolon internodes than var. australe.. While it is stoloniferous like var. australe, it is taller than that variety, although not as tall as the tallest of var. virginianum, and like this latter variety, its flowering stems develop leaves as the plant ages. It is sometimes known as Carolina Green and Gold, appropriate since this is the "middle variety" in pretty much all ways, including range.
  • var. australe is stoloniferous with relatively long stolon internodes. It is the shortest variety, with the flowering stems rarely growing more than 5 inches tall, and they do not develop leaves on the flowering stems. This southernmost variety is sometimes known as Gulf Coast Green and Gold, since it is known only in the Gulf Coast states, plus Georgia.


Chrysogonum virginianum - all three varieties - are used in flower gardens as a groundcover, both for their foliage and beautiful bright golden-yellow flowers. It is listed as Endangered in KY, OH, PA, and TN.

Found in:
AL, DC, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Green and Gold
Cinquefoil Potentilla canadensis
(Native)
Dwarf Cinquefoil Dwarf Cinquefoil Dwarf Cinquefoil
CinquefoilPotentilla recta
(Introduced)
Sulfur Cinquefoil, Roughfruit CinquefoilSulfur Cinquefoil is an upright perennial with hairy stems to nearly 3 feet tall, found frequently along roadsides throughout most of the United States. This non-native was introduced from Europe, and is so invasive that despite its beauty is considered an obnoxious weed in Colorado, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, and is found in all but 5 states. Sulfur Cinquefoil is also known as Roughfruit Cinquefoil.Sulfur Cinquefoil, Roughfruit Cinquefoil
CinquefoilPotentilla simplex
(Native)
Common Cinquefoil, Decumbent Five-finger, Old Field CinquefoilThere is a Potentilla species found in every state in the U.S. except Hawaii, and in every province in Canada. Potentilla simplex is a species of the eastern half of North America, being found from the plains states to the east coast, excluding Florida. This plant, while native to the United States and Canada, can be weedy and is listed in the USDA Introduced, Invasive, and Noxious Plants list.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Common Cinquefoil, Decumbent Five-finger, Old Field Cinquefoil
ClarkiaClarkia pulchella
(Native)
Pinkfairies, Ragged Robin, Deerhorn Clarkia, Beautiful ClarkiaThe Clarkia genus contains 41 species. While most of the species are found only in California, Clarkia pulchella is the only one not known in California, and was found by Meriweather Lewis in what is now Idaho in 1806. It was first described by William Clark in May of that year. It was the first species described in the genus, which was later named for William Clark. Clarkia pulchella is found in 6 northwestern states and has disjunct populations in 4 eastern states. While the USDA Plants Database shows Pinkfairies as native to these eastern states (OH, MA, CT, VT), these are likely instead a result of plants brought back from the west, since it would have been known prior to 1806 if it was native to those eastern states.

My initial identification of this species was using the excellent book Idaho Mountain Wildflowers by Scott Earle.
Pinkfairies, Ragged Robin,  Deerhorn Clarkia, Beautiful Clarkia
Cliffrose, BitterbrushPurshia stansburiana
(Native)
Stansbury's Cliffrose, Cliff Rose, QuininebushIt is hard to nail down a scientific name for Stansbury's Cliffrose, with the first disagreement among authorities being the spelling of the species epithet - stansburiana (more commonly used) or stansburyana (used by ITIS and some other authorities, more closely aligning with its namesake, American civil and topographical engineer Howard Stansbury, who died in 1863.) While it appears that virtually all authorities now agree that species within the genus Cowania (this plant was formerly known as Cowania stansburiana or Cowania stansburyana), are now properly classified within Purshia there is disagreement on whether it is a separate species, or should be classified as Purshia mexicana var. stansburyana; the latter is how it is classified by ITIS.

However you name it, this lovely plant grows in dry woodlands and desert scrub in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The photos on this page were taken along the south rim of the Grand Canyon in Coconino County, Arizona.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, NM, NV, UT
Stansbury's Cliffrose, Cliff Rose, Quininebush
CloverTrifolium repens
(Introduced)
White CloverWalker County, Ga 05/11/2009White Clover
CloverTrifolium pratense
(Introduced)
Red Clover, CowgrassRed Clover is an introduced species which has become naturalized in every state in the United States and all but one Canadian province. While many species that have become so widely naturalized would be considered invasive, this plant has been welcomed due to its economic importance, even becoming the state flower of Vermont. The flowers, leaves and stem are edible, and are sowed for cattle fodder. Red Clover is also good for soil quality, being important in nitrogen fixation. Red Clover, Cowgrass
CloverTrifolium incarnatum
(Introduced)
Crimson Clover, Italian CloverThis introduced clover, considered invasive by some authorities, is found in 43 states. It was brought into North America from Europe as cattle feed. It also can enrich the soil, fixing nitrogen.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Crimson Clover, Italian Clover
CloverTrifolium campestre
(Introduced)
Low-Hop Clover, Field Clover, Large Hop Clover, Hop TrefoilThis introduced species was originally brought to North America for fodder, but is now found wild in all but six states, and can be weedy and invasive. There are several "hop clover" species so named because the yellow flowers turn brown as they mature, and look like hops.

The original primary image I had on this page was actually not Trifolium campestre. It was of a similar-looking Medicago species. Thanks to Robert Flogaus-Faust for bringing my attention to this incorrect identification.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Low-Hop Clover, Field Clover, Large Hop Clover, Hop Trefoil
CloverTrifolium eriocephalum
(Native)
Woolly Head Clover, Hairy Head Clover, Cascade Clover, Cusick's Clover, Martin's Clover, Fuzzyleaf CloverMost of the Clovers (Trifolium) with which we are familiar - White, Red, Crimson - are non-native species which were introduced as to improve the soil or for animal fodder. In fact, as of this writing in May, 2014, all four Trifolium species represented on USWildflowers.com are introduced. While there are over 60 Clover species native to the United States, only about a half-dozen are found east of the Mississippi River. Trifolium eriocephalum, Woollyhead Clover, is one of the many western native Clovers. There are a number of varieties (or, since this is a western species, subspecies) of T. eriocephalum which go by common names such as v, Cusick's Clover, Martin's Clover, and Fuzzyleaf Clover.

Trifolium longipes is a similar plant with a similar but larger range, extending further east, and a similar habitat. I tentatively have concluded this is Trifolium eriocephalum rather than Trifolium longipes due to the reflexed flowers, described for Trifolium eriocephalum but absent from the description of Trifolium longipes in the Jepson manual.

Found in:
CA, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA
Woolly Head Clover, Hairy Head Clover, Cascade Clover, Cusick's Clover, Martin's Clover, Fuzzyleaf Clover
Clubmoss Diphasiastrum digitatum
(Native)
Southern Ground Cedar, Fan Clubmoss, Running Pine, Running Ground CedarThis is a Lycopod rather than a flowering seed plant. Lycopods are among the plants known as fern-allies. Like ferns, it reproduces via spores from the club-like appendages above the plant. Diphasiastrum digitatum is a synonym for the newer scientific name Lycopodium digitatum.

It is listed as "Exploitably Vulnerable" in New York.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Southern Ground Cedar, Fan Clubmoss, Running Pine, Running Ground Cedar
CohoshCaulophyllum thalictroides
(Native)
Blue CohoshPossible toxicity, especially to pregnant women.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Blue Cohosh
ColumbineAquilegia canadensis
(Native)
Eastern Red Columbine, Wild ColumbineThis is the only native columbine in the eastern United States.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Eastern Red Columbine, Wild Columbine
ConeflowerRudbeckia hirta
(Native)
Black-eyed SusanBlack-eyed Susan is a commonly seen but uncommonly beautiful wildflower found along roadsides and open areas throughout much of the United States, missing only in Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, and Nevada.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Black-eyed Susan
ConeflowerRudbeckia fulgida
(Native)
Orange ConeflowerThis species, like many members of the 22-species Rudbeckia genus, are frequently called 'black-eyed Susan' because of their nearly identical appearance to R. hirta, the 'true' black-eyed Susan. Orange coneflower, Rudbeckia fulgida, itself is a highly variable species, with as many as 14 varieties. I believe this is R. fulgida var fulgida, due to the shorter, wider ray petals, the minimal hair on the stems, and the distinct winged petioles of the alternating leaves.Orange Coneflower
ConeflowerRudbeckia laciniata
(Native)
Green-headed Coneflower, Cutleaf Coneflower, Golden GlowCutleaf Coneflower is widely distributed in the United States. Found in 45 states, it is missing only in Alaska, Hawaii, Oregon, Nevada, and California. It is listed as Threatened in Rhode Island, but can be quite commonly found in many of the other states.

Blooms in mid to late summer.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Green-headed Coneflower, Cutleaf Coneflower, Golden Glow
ConeflowerRudbeckia triloba
(Native)
Browneyed Susan, Thin-leaf Coneflower, Three-lobed ConeflowerRudbeckia triloba can be a tall (up to 5' or 6'), many-branched coneflower, with a flower having the appearance of a smaller Blackeyed Susan (R. hirta.)

There are three commonly recognized varieties, with var triloba, so named because some of the lower leaves have 3 lobes, being the most widely distributed. Var ruprestris has somewhat larger flowers, and var pinnatiloba will have 5 to 7 lobes on some of the lower leaves. While the USDA records do not show var pinnatiloba in Georgia, the photos on this page imply otherwise.

Rudbeckia triloba is listed as Endangered in Florida.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WI, WV
Browneyed Susan, Thin-leaf Coneflower, Three-lobed Coneflower
CottongrassEriophorum virginicum
(Native)
Virginia Cottongrass, Tawny Cottongrass, Rusty Cotton GrassEriophorum is a fairly small genus in the Cyperaceae (Sedge) family with about 25 species worldwide, 11 of which are found in North America. They are mostly a northern plant, with most species being found in cool climates, even arctic regions. The species found in the United States are mostly in northern states, with a few extending their range in the Rocky Mountains signficantly southward. Eriophorum virginicum is one of the exceptions. In addition to northern states in the eastern half of the nation and in the Appalachian Mountains south to Tennessee and North Carolina, Tawny Cottongrass is also found in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain of NC and SC, as well as disjunctly in the Okefenokee Swamp.

As is the case with many members of the Sedge family (Cyperaceae), Eriophorum virginicum is a plant of bogs and moist meadows - another common name for the genus is Bog Cotton.

Found in:
CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Virginia Cottongrass, Tawny Cottongrass, Rusty Cotton Grass
Cow ParsnipHeracleum maximum
(Native)
American Cow Parsnip, Masterwort, American Hogweed, Common Cowparsnip
While there are about 65 to 70 species of Heracleum worldwide, Heracleum maximum - American Cow Parsnip - is the only one native to North America, and is the only native species in that family found from the east to west coast of North America. It is a large plant, the largest in the Carrot family native to the United States, although an invasive Cow Parsnip - Heracleum mantegazzianum (Giant Hogweed) is even larger. The juice of these plants contain a furanocoumarin compound which causes phytophotodermatitis, an extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet light. This can cause irritation or debilitating blistering of the skin after contact with the juices, and possible blindness if the juice gets in the eye. You should exercise caution (using protection such as gloves and long sleeves) if you must handle the plant, and wash any juices off immediately. That being said, parts of the young plant were used by Native Americans for food, the plant was used in a variety of medicinal treatments, and the hollow stems were used for deer calls.

Heracleum maximum is primarily a more northern species, found from Maine to Washington State, and ranging as far south as Georgia in the eastern Appalachians, and south to California, Arizona, and New Mexico in the mountains. It grows in moist woods and meadows.
Synonym: Heracleum lanatum

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, GS
American Cow Parsnip, Masterwort, American Hogweed, Common Cowparsnip
Cow-WheatMelampyrum lineare
(Native)
Cow Wheat, Narrowleaf Cow-Wheat, Appalachian Cow-Wheat
Melampyrum is a genus of 20 to 35 species found in North America, Asia, and eastern Europe. They are hemiparasitic herbs, getting part of their nutrition from the roots of trees and shrubs. It was likely this hemiparasitic characteristic that resulted in the move of Melampyrum from the Scrophulariaceae family into Orobanchaceae in the first decade of the 21st century.

Melampyrum lineare is the only Cow Wheat species found in the United States. It is a species primarily of the northern part of the country as well as southern Canada. It is found in all the northeastern states, and in the northern tier of states west to Washington except for North Dakota. Its ranges also extends southward primarily in the Appalachian Mountains as far south as Georgia and South Carolina.

There are 3 or 4 recognized varieties of Melampyrum lineare, differentiated primarily by teeth on the bracteal leaves, how much the plant branches, the width of the leaves, and the internodal stem length.

Found in:
CT, DC, DE, GA, ID, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, GS
Cow Wheat, Narrowleaf Cow-Wheat, Appalachian Cow-Wheat
CowbaneOxypolis rigidior
(Native)
Stiff Cowbane, Pig-potato, Common Water-Dropwort
Oxypolis is a small genus of 4 species of North America. Recent reclassification moved 3 other species out of Oxypolis and into Tiedemannia. Two species of Oxypolis have relatively narrow distribution in the western United States - Oxypolis occidentalis being found in the United States only in California and Oregon and Oxypolis fendleri in the Four Corners states and Wyoming - while Oxypolis ternata is found in the wet pine savannas and sandhill seepages of the southeastern states of North and South Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida.

Oxypolis rigidior is by far the most widely distributed species in the genus, being found in 28 states along the east coast outside of New England, from New York south to Florida and west to Texas and Minnesota. It is a plant of wet areas such as streambanks, bogs, and seepages. Cowbane is toxic and should not be eaten.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Stiff Cowbane, Pig-potato, Common Water-Dropwort
Crippled CraneflyTipularia discolor
(Native)
Tipularia, Cranefly Orchid, Crippled Cranefly OrchidThere are 3 species of Tipularia, with only Tipularia discolor being found in the United States. The other two are Asian plants, 1 found in the Himalayas, and the other in Japan. Tipularia discolor is found in rich forests and oak-pine woods of the eastern part of the United States outside of New England, west to Illinois and south to Texas. It is protected as Threatened, Endangered, or Rare in Florida, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, but can be quite common in parts of its range.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Tipularia, Cranefly Orchid, Crippled Cranefly Orchid
CrossvineBignonia capreolata
(Native)
Cross Vine, Trumpet Flower, Crossvine, Quarter VineBignonia capreolata and the Bignoniaceae family are named for French ecclesiastic Jean-Paul Bignon. Bignonia is monotypic - a single species in the genus - although some authorities consider there to be over 20 species in the genus, including species from other genera such as Campsis and Dolichandra. While there are herbs and shrubs in the Bignoniaceae family, most of the several hundred species in the family are trees or vines. Bignonia capreolata is one of the vines - a liana, a woody vine as opposed to an herbaceous vine. Six species in the family are found in the United States, three of which are lianas, three are trees. It is normally a plant of lower elevations, usually wet areas, but it can be found occasionally in mesic forests of the lower elevations on the western side of the Appalachian Mountains. One of the photos on this page was taken in the Smoky Mountains.

Cross Vine gets its common name from the appearance of the cross-section of the vine. This vine usually grows high into trees in swamps and bottomland forest, but can also be found in drier areas in much reduced size.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Cross Vine, Trumpet Flower, Crossvine, Quarter Vine
CrownbeardVerbesina occidentalis
(Native)
Yellow CrownbeardMost of the Crownbeards have yellow blossoms, and bloom in mid to late summer. Verbesina occidentalis, like a couple of other Verbesina species - V. alternifolia and V. helianthoides - has a winged stem caused by the continuation of the petioles down along the stem. Yellow Crownbeard is a tall plant, from 3 feet to 10 feet tall.Yellow Crownbeard
CrownbeardVerbesina alternifolia
(Native)
Wingstem, Yellow IronweedThis is a tall, yellow-blossomed plant found throughout most of the midwest and east outside of New England. It is listed as Threatened in New York.Wingstem, Yellow Ironweed
CrownbeardVerbesina virginica
(Native)
White Crownbeard, Frostweed, Iceplant, Virginia crownbeardThere are 18 Verbesina species in North America, with at least one species found in most states. The extreme northwest, extreme northeast, and Minnesota don't have a Verbesina species. The composite flowers of White Crownbeard are, as expected based on the name, white. If I'm interpreting the keys in the online version of Flora of North America correctly, the only other white Verbesina in the United States is V. microptera - Texas Crownbeard - which is found only south Texas.

Of the 18 species, 6, including White Crownbeard, may have winged stems: V. alternifolia, V. helianthoides, V. occidentalis, V. heterophylla, V. virginica, V. microptera.
White Crownbeard, Frostweed, Iceplant, Virginia crownbeard
CymophyllusCymophyllus fraserianus
(Native)
Fraser's Sedge, Fraser's CymophyllusCymophyllus fraserianus (syn. Cymophyllus fraseri, Carex fraseri, and Carex fraseriana) is a monotypic species - there are no other species in the genus. It is endemic to the southern Appalachian mountains, and is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern in 5 of the 9 states in which it is found (GA, KY, MD, PA, TN.) While it is easily found in parts of its range, overall it is a rare plant.

Found in:
GA, KY, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Fraser's Sedge, Fraser's Cymophyllus
DaisyChrysanthemum leucanthemum
(Introduced)
Oxeye DaisyChrysanthemum leucanthemum is a synonym for Leucanthemum vulgare, which is now the most widely accepted scientific name.

This much-loved flower is an import from its native Europe and Asia, and is naturalized in every state in the United States and almost all of Canada. It is officially considered a noxious weed in Colorado, Montana, Ohio, Washington, and Wyoming, so consider carefully before planting it.
Oxeye Daisy
DandelionTaraxacum officinale
(Introduced)
DandelionDandelion - A variety of Taraxacum officinale (ceratophorum) is native to western parts of the United States, the the variety found in the east (officinale), which is also found in the west, is introduced. Dandelion
DayflowerCommelina communis
(Introduced)
Asiatic Dayflower, Mouse Ears, Dew HerbThe blossom of this member of the Spiderwort family lasts for one day. Introduced from its native Asia, it is considered weedy or invasive by some authorities, having spread widely throughout eastern North America.

Asian Dayflower can be confused with Commelina erecta - Slender Dayflower, a plant native to the United States. This latter plant has paler blue upper petals. The pedicel (flower stem) of Slender Dayflower rises from a spathe which is fused along the lower portion; the spathe is open all the way to the base in the Asiatic Dayflower.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Asiatic Dayflower, Mouse Ears, Dew Herb
DayflowerCommelina virginica
(Native)
Virginia DayflowerCommelina virginica grows in wet places, especially along swamps, rivers, and where this was photographed, along stream banks. It flowers from mid-summer and on into fall, growing in the southeastern quadrant of the United States as far west as Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas, and as far north as Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. It was historically present in Pennsylvania, but it is reported as being extirpated in that state.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Virginia Dayflower
DaylilyHemerocallis fulva
(Introduced)
Common Daylily, Tawny Daylily, Orange DaylilyThis plant was introduced from Asia for its excellent garden characteristics, and has become naturalized in 42 of the 50 states. As an escapee, it is considered weedy or invasive by some authorities.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Common Daylily, Tawny Daylily, Orange Daylily
DeadnettleLamium amplexicaule
(Introduced)
Henbit, Henbit DeadnettleThe deadnettles are native to Europe and Asia, but are now widely naturalized in the United States. As with many non-native species which have become widespread in the U.S. Henbit Deadnettle blooms early. It is easily confused with Purple Deadnettle - L. purpureum - which has petioled leaves all the way to the top leaves. The middle and upper leaves of L. amplexicaule do not have petioles. The leaves of Henbit (L. amplexicaule) are also typically smaller than those of Purple Deadnettle.Henbit, Henbit Deadnettle
DeadnettleLamium purpureum
(Introduced)
Purple Deadnettle, Red Deadnettle, Purple ArchangelThe deadnettles are native to Europe and Asia, but are now widely naturalized in the United States. As with many non-native species which have become widespread in the U.S. Purple Deadnettle blooms early. A similar species is Henbit - L. amplexicaule - The middle and upper leaves of L. amplexicaule do not have petioles while those of L. purpureum have petioles on all leaves, although the upper ones are quite small. The leaves of Henbit (L. amplexicaule) are also typically smaller than those of Purple Deadnettle.Purple Deadnettle, Red Deadnettle, Purple Archangel
Death CamasToxicoscordion paniculatum
(Native)
Foothill Death Camas, Foothills Deathcamas, Panicled Death Camas, Sand-cornSynonym: Zigadenus paniculatus - a name still used by some authorities. In addition to reclassification out of the Zigadenus genus, it has recently been moved out of Liliaceae and into the Melanthiaceae family. Only a single U.S. plant remains in the Zigadenus genus (Z. glaberrimus - Sandbog Death Camas.) Interestingly, Trillium has also been moved out of Liliaceae and into the Melanthiaceae. I would not have guessed the close relationship between Trillium and other Melanthiaceae species. Toxicoscordion paniculatum is a plant of the western United States, found in dry sagebrush scrub and conifer forests at moderately high elevations - from about 3,000 feet up to 7,000 feet. Due to the rarity of the plant in Arizona, collecting the plant is restricted in that state.

Similar species: Toxicoscordion venenosum, which is a somewhat smaller species, and the inflorescence is a raceme rather than a panicle, although there might be a single branch at the bottom of the inflorescence. My photos of this plant, however, show several branches, indicating a panicle, although the upper half of the inflorescence is racemose. T. venenosum prefers moister soil than does T. paniculatum.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Foothill Death Camas, Foothills Deathcamas, Panicled Death Camas, Sand-corn
Death CamasStenanthium leimanthoides
(Native)
Pine Barren Death CamasRecent studies, perhaps not yet completely accepted, have reclassified (Zomlefer & Judd, 2002) Zigadenus to become a monotypic genus, with Zigadenus glaberrimus being that sole species remaining in the genus. What was formerly classified as Zigadenus leimanthoides, the plant presented here, was moved into Stenanthium as S. leimanthoides.

Stenanthium leimanthoides is a plant of diverse areas such as rock outcrops and seepages at relatively high elevations and bogs and wet pine savannas in the coastal plain. There is some question as to whether populations near the Gulf Coast belong in this species, or instead should be included within Stenanthium densum - in fact, further confusing classification, Stenanthium leimanthoides was sometimes included within Zigadenus densus (which subsequently became Stenanthium densum.) Zigadenus and Stenanthium have been moved into the Melanthiaceae family as part of the dismantling of Liliaceae.

As is implied by the common name the plants in this genus - all parts of them - are poisonous.

Found in:
AL, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, NJ, NY, TN, TX, VA, WV
Pine Barren Death Camas
Desert-thornLycium carolinianum
(Native)
Christmasberry, Carolina Wolfberry, Carolina Desert-thorn, Creeping WolfberryThere are 22 species of Lycium - Desert-thorn - found in the United States, most of which are southwestern species. Lycium carolinianum is the only native Desert-thorn found east of the Mississippi River.

Lycium carolinianum is a shrub that grows from 6 to 10 feet tall. The branches are sharp-tipped.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, SC, TX
Christmasberry, Carolina Wolfberry, Carolina Desert-thorn, Creeping Wolfberry
DodderCuscuta gronovii
(Native)
Dodder Vine, ScaldweedA parasitic vine that inserts suckers into the stem of its host plants. As the vine matures, its roots die and it gets all of its nourishment from the host.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Dodder Vine, Scaldweed
Dog HobbleLeucothoe fontanesiana
(Native)
Highland Dog Hobble, Drooping Leucothoe, Fetterbush, DoghobblePrimarily a southeastern species, it is found in 8 states south of the Mason-Dixon line, as well as in New York and Maryland (those disjunct populations may not be native.) Dog Hobble grows in dense thickets along mountain streams. Those shown on this page were near the banks of the Talullah River in north Georgia.

Found in:
AL, GA, KY, MA, MD, NC, NY, SC, TN, VA
Highland Dog Hobble, Drooping Leucothoe, Fetterbush, Doghobble
DogwoodCornus florida
(Native)
Flowering DogwoodFlowering dogwood, Cornus florida, the dogwood usually referenced simply as dogwood, is a small tree, growing up to 30 feet tall, although it is more typically 15 feet tall, and frequently as wide as it is tall. It brings an early splash of white to the undercover of the spring forest for several weeks in April or May.

Synonym Benthamidia florida. This is apparently a recent DNA-based reclassification from the genus Cornus. I have yet to determine how widely-accepted this classification has become; USDA Plants Database does not list it (Dec 2009.)
Flowering Dogwood
DogwoodCornus foemina
(Native)
Stiff Dogwood, Southern Swamp Dogwood, Gray DogwoodThis small tree or shrub of the southeastern United States is not as showy as its larger and well-known cousin, Cornus florida - the Flowering Dogwood. However, it is an attractive tree, growing to about 20 tall. Cornus foemina, Stiff Dogwood (synonym: Cornus stricta,) is found in 19 states, as far north as Illinois and Delaware. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) is found in 31 states, as far north as Maine and Michigan, as well as parts of Canada.

Found in:
AL, AR, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA
Stiff Dogwood, Southern Swamp Dogwood, Gray Dogwood
DogwoodCornus sericea
(Native)
Red-osier Dogwood, Western Dogwood, American Dogwoodhere are two subspecies of Cornus sericea - occidentalis (Western Dogwood, found in CA, NV, ID, OR, WA, MT, AK) and sericea (Red-osier Dogwood, found in most of the U.S. and Canada, except for 12 of the southeastern states.)

It is a shrub that grows up to about 12' tall. The stems are reddish from late summer into early fall, being a quite colorful red during winter until they transition to green as spring nears. It grows primarily in wet habitats. The plant I photographed was growing within the flood zone of a steep mountain creek near the bottom of the Kleinschmidt Grade in Adams County, Idaho.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Red-osier Dogwood, Western Dogwood, American Dogwood
DogwoodCornus canadensis
(Native)
Bunchberry, Bunchberry Dogwood, Dwarf Dogwood, Canadian Bunchberry, Dwarf Cornel, Creeping DogwoodBunchberry is found throughout most of Canada and the northern tier of states in the United States, and it pushes south in the mountain regions, all the way to Virginia in the east and to New Mexico in the west. It prefers cool, acidic soils and cannot survive if the soil gets warmer than 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It is listed as threatened or endangered in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, and Ohio. The berries are reported to be edible, if not especially tasty on their own.

My apology for these photos which do not do the plant justice. In northern Minnesota in September when these photos were taken you do not expect either the plant to be blooming, and this year the berries had already dropped. Additionally, the plant thrives in moist forests, and 2012 was a year of drought.

Found in:
AK, CO, CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, ND, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Bunchberry, Bunchberry Dogwood, Dwarf Dogwood, Canadian Bunchberry, Dwarf Cornel, Creeping Dogwood
Dutchman's BreechesDicentra cucullaria
(Native)
Dutchman's BreechesDutchman's Breeches is a lovely spring wildflower. The blossoms don't last long.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Dutchman's Breeches
Dwarf DandelionKrigia biflora
(Native)
Two-flower Cynthia, Twoflower Dwarfdandelion, Orange Dwarf-dandelionKrigia is a small genus of about 7 species endemic to North America. Most species are only in the eastern part of the continent, east of the Great Plains, except for this plant, Krigia biflora. One of the two varieties, var. viridis is found in Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico, and is a smaller plant than the variety shown here, Krigia biflora var. biflora. Krigia biflora var. biflora is also found in most of the eastern half of the continent. The Krigia flowers are similar and closely related to those in the Hieracium genus.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, WI, WV
Two-flower Cynthia, Twoflower Dwarfdandelion, Orange Dwarf-dandelion
Dwarf DandelionKrigia dandelion
(Native)
Potato Dandelion, Potato Dwarfdandelion, Colonial Dwarf-dandelionPlants in the Krigia genus are also known as Dwarf Dandelion (or Dwarfdandelion) because of the obvious similarity of their flower to the common Dandelion (Taraxacum officinal.) There are 7 Krigia species, all native only to North America. Krigia dandelion grows in similar locations to Taraxacum officinal - woodlands, roadsides, lawns, disturbed areas, and waste areas, forming stoloniferous colonies. These photos are from a yard that I have selectively mowed, avoiding mowing native wildflowers until they have gone to seed.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA
Potato Dandelion, Potato Dwarfdandelion, Colonial Dwarf-dandelion
ElderberrySambucus nigra ssp canadensis
(Native)
Common Elderberry, American Elderberry, American Black ElderberryThis shrub grows up to 10 feet tall and has many stems, forming dense thickets. The leaves are pinnate, with usually 7, occasionally 5, and even more occasionally 9 lanceolate, serrated leaflets. The plant has large cymes of small white flowers which will produce dark purple to black berries which can be used in jams and to make wine. The flowers, dried, can be used to make a tea. The unripe berries, the stems, and the leaves may be poisonous.

This is the more widespread subspecies of the Black Elderberry, being found in all but 5 of the lower 48 states. It is also in Hawaii, but as an introduced species. It was formerly classified as the separate species Sambucus canadensis. Another subspecies, S. nigra ssp.cerulea (formerly S. caerulea) is known as the Blue Elderberry, and has bluish berries. Blue Elderberry is found in much of the western half of the United States

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Common Elderberry, American Elderberry, American Black Elderberry
ElderberrySambucus nigra ssp cerulea
(Native)
Western Blue Elder, Blue ElderberryWestern Blue Elder is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 25 feet tall and may have many stems, forming dense thickets. The leaves are pinnate, with usually 3 to 9 lanceolate, serrated leaflets. The plant has large cymes of small white flowers which will produce blue berries in late summer which can be used in jams and to make wine, although the raw berries in large quantities may be poisonous. The unripe berries, the stems, and the leaves may be poisonous.

It was formerly classified as the separate species Sambucus cerulea. Another subspecies, S. nigra ssp. canadensis (formerly S. canadensis, and these plants are still treated as separate species in the esteemed Weakley's Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States) is known as the Black Elderberry. Recent classification changes have also moved the genus Sambucus, along with Viburnum, out of the Honeysuckle Family and into the Muskroot Family.

This subspecies of the Sambucus nigra is not as widespread as ssp. canadensis, Black Elderberry. Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea is found in 12 western states. The color of the berries is the most sure way to tell the difference if you are in the 7 states where you may find either species - Montana, Colorado, Wyoming, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea may be taller - it can reach 25 feet in height - and may have as few as 3 leaflets, while Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis usually is rarely taller than 10 feet, and will usually have a minimum of 5 leaflets.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, TX, UT, WA, WY
Western Blue Elder, Blue Elderberry
ElderberrySambucus racemosa
(Native)
Red Elderberry, Red Elder, Rocky Mountain Elder, Scarlet ElderberrySambucus racemosa is a shrub (occasionally a small tree) in a genus of small trees and shrubs. The number of species in the genus is subject to some disagreement among experts - ranging from about 9 to about 20 - with some botanists classifying as varieties or subspecies the plants that others classify as species. The species presented here, Sambucus racemosa, has 6 to 12 varieties and subspecies, depending on which authority you follow. While there are several other varieties in northwestern North America, the variety found in the east where this specimen was photographed is var. pubens. Sambucus has relatively recently (around the turn of the 21st century) been moved from Caprifoliaceae into the Adoxaceae family, along with the closely related Viburnum genus.

Sambucus racemosa is known as Red Elderberry due to the color of the berries, which are reported to be somewhat poisonous. It is a more northern species than the other members of Sambucus found in North America, in its southern ranges found more in the mountains than in lower elevations, and is normally associated with rocky areas.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Red Elderberry, Red Elder, Rocky Mountain Elder, Scarlet Elderberry
Elephant's FootElephantopus carolinianus
(Native)
Carolina Elephant's foot, Leafy Elephantfoot This plant's alternating leaves arise along an unevenly pubescent stem. The plant branches at leaf axils usually after four non-branching leaf nodes. The blossom clusters, which arise from three leafy bracts, terminate the stems. The white to pale lavender blossoms are very interesting in that they usually give the appearance of having a circle of many rays, but these apparently lobes of the corolla of several disk flowers.

E. carolinianus is listed as endangered in New Jersey and Pennsylvania (USDA.)

Synonyms: Elephantopus flexuosus, Elephantopus violaceus, Elephantopus glaber
Carolina Elephant's foot, Leafy Elephantfoot
EryngoEryngium yuccifolium
(Native)
Rattlesnake Master, Button Eryngo, Button Snakeroot, Yuccaleaf EryngoThere are about 250 species of Eryngium in the world, with about 35 in the United States. While most are native to the U.S., several are introduced. It appears that all Eryngium found in the wild in Canada are introduced. While more Eryngium species are found in the western half of the country, the eastern Eryngium yuccifolium is the most widely distributed species of the genus in the United States (it is not found in Canada.)

As with many plants, Eryngium yuccifolium was used (and may continue to be used) by native Americans for medicinal purposes, with the roots being used to relieve toothaches and as a remedy for bladder and kidney problems, and as indicated by one of its common names, as a treatment for snakebite, especially that of the rattlesnake.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI
Rattlesnake Master, Button Eryngo, Button Snakeroot, Yuccaleaf Eryngo
Evening PrimroseOenothera speciosa
(Native)
Pink Ladies, Showy Evening Primrose, Pink PrimroseWhile the USDA Plants Database shows Oenothera speciosa as native to 27 of the lower 48 states, it is apparently native only to the central part of the United States. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center mentions a native status in Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. It apparently has been introduced and naturalized in the other 22 states where it is found. While it is an attractive plant with a long bloom season, use caution because it can spread vigorously. Pink Ladies, Showy Evening Primrose, Pink Primrose
Evening PrimroseOenothera biennis
(Native)
Common Evening Primrose, Evening Star, Sun DropCommon Evening Primrose is found in all but 7 states. From Carol in Virginia: "It booms just at dusk and you can actually see the petals move as it opens... All the grandchildren love to gather around a plant and guess which one will open next."

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Common Evening Primrose, Evening Star, Sun Drop
Evening PrimroseGaura filipes
(Native)
Slenderstalk Beeblossom, Slender Gaura, Threadstalk GauraThis tall plant is found throughout much of the southeast and into parts of the midwest.

The Gaura genus has recently been moved into the Oenothera (Evening Primrose) genus; the new scientific name for this plant is Oenothera filipes, so the genus common name has changed from Beeblossom to Evening Primrose. While more accurate scientifically, it makes a somewhat large and confusing genus even larger and more confusing. More changes to Oenothera will likely be coming...

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MS, SC, TN
Slenderstalk Beeblossom, Slender Gaura, Threadstalk Gaura
Evening PrimroseOenothera pallida
(Native)
Pale Evening Primrose, White Evening Primrose, Pale-Stemmed Evening PrimroseWhile there are Oenothera species in every state except for Alaska (also in all of Canada except Yukon), Oenothera pallida is a western species, being found in 11 western states, and in British Columbia. Of the few pink or white Oenothera species found in Idaho, where these photos were taken, the others have leaf structures/shapes that are significantly different. It can bloom from mid-spring on well into the fall.

Found in:
AZ, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, TX, UT, WA, WY
Pale Evening Primrose, White Evening Primrose, Pale-Stemmed Evening Primrose
Evening PrimroseOenothera macrocarpa ssp macrocarpa
(Native)
Missouri Evening Primrose, Ozark Sundrop, Bigfruit Evening Primrose, Wingfruit Evening-Primrose
Oenothera is a large genus of about 145 species as now classified, with Evening Primroses found in temperate to subtropical areas of North, Central, and South America. The area with most species is the southwest of the United States, and there are Oenothera species in every state except for Alaska (also in all of Canada except Yukon). The genus is somewhat in flux, with several genera of Onagraceae, such as Gaura having been moved into Oenothera based on studies published early in the 21st century.

Oenothera macrocarpa is a species of mid-America, found in rocky sites like bluffs, rocky prairies, and glades from Nebraska south to Texas and east to the Mississippi River. It is also found in a county or so each in Illinois, Tennessee, and Wyoming, states where it is considered rare, and is legally protected in Tennessee. There are 4 or 5 recognized subspecies:
  • ssp. incana
  • ssp. fremontii
  • ssp. macrocarpa (the species presented here)
  • ssp. mexicana (1st reported in 1994; verified 1999)
  • ssp. oklahomensis.
Between the subspecies are differences in leaf shape and margin, growth habit, hairiness, and other small morphological attributes.

Synonym: Oenothera missouriensis

Found in:
AR, IL, KS, MO, NE, OK, TN, TX, WY
Missouri Evening Primrose, Ozark Sundrop, Bigfruit Evening Primrose, Wingfruit Evening-Primrose
EyelashweedBlepharipappus scaber
(Native)
Rough Eyelashweed, Blepharipappus, Rough Blepharipappus Blepharipappus scaber is the only species in the genus. The plant grows from 4 to 12 inches tall and is found in dry, open areas in five western states. This specimen was along a hillside at about 3,500' - 4000' in the Boise Foothills.

Found in:
CA, ID, NV, OR, WA
Rough Eyelashweed, Blepharipappus, Rough Blepharipappus
Fairy SlipperCalypso bulbosa
(Native)
Calypso Orchid, Fairy Slipper, Venus Slipper, Angel Slipper, Deer's Head OrchidCalypso bulbosa is the only species in the genus, but there are two varieties. Var. occidentalis, the more western variety (as indicated by the varietal name) has whitish or clear lip bristles. It is found only in Washington, Oregon, California, and Idaho, and is the variety shown here. Var. americana is the more easterly variety, being found in Alaska and Canada, and from Montana east along the Canadian border states all the way east to Maine (except, oddly, North Dakota; but it is found in South Dakota. It is also found in the Rocky Mountain states down through Arizona. The eastern variety has more lip bristles, and they are yellow. Calypso bulbosa is Threatened or Endangered in Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, and Wisconsin. It is also protected in Arizona.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, ID, ME, MI, MN, MT, NH, NM, NY, OR, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, WY
Calypso Orchid, Fairy Slipper, Venus Slipper, Angel Slipper, Deer's Head Orchid
FairybellsProsartes lanuginosa
(Native)
Yellow Fairybells, Yellow MandarinDisporum lanuginosum is a synonym of Prosartes lanuginosa, the commonly accepted scientific name for this species. I updated USWildflowers.com to use Prosartes on June 6, 2016. The five species of the genus Disporum that are in North America have recently been reclassified into a separate genus - Prosartes - and moved into the Liliaceae family out of the Colchicaceae family.

Yellow Fairybells is an attractive plant growing to 36" tall, with alternating, glossy green entire leaves which are ovate or lanceolate and have prominent parallel veins.
Yellow Fairybells, Yellow Mandarin
FairybellsProsartes maculata
(Native)
Nodding Mandarin, Spotted Mandarin, Spotted FairybellsThe five species of the genus Disporum that are in North America have been reclassified into a separate genus - Prosartes - which is placed in the Liliaceae family rather than the Colchicaceae family where Disporum resides. This is interesting in that it seems that Liliaceae is generally being disassembled, so I have to wonder if this family is a temporary holding place for Prosartes.

Prosartes maculata grows in rich deciduous forests from Michigan (where it may be extirpated) southward to northern Georgia and Alabama. In the southern part of its range is a plant of the more mountainous regions. It is less common than the similar Prosartes lanuginosa (Yellow Mandarin) and is considered rare or uncommon in every state where it is found.

Found in:
AL, GA, KY, MI, NC, OH, TN, VA, WV, GS
Nodding Mandarin, Spotted Mandarin, Spotted Fairybells
FairywandChamaelirium luteum
(Native)
Fairy Wand, Devil's Bit, False Unicorn Root, Blazing Star, Grubroot, Squirrel Tail, Rattlesnake-rootChamaelirium luteum is a dioecious, monotypic species of wet meadows and deciduous woods in the eastern part of the United States. It is officially listed as Endangered in Connecticut, Indiana, Massachusetts, and Threatened in New York. It is variable listed in the following families: Liliaceae - the Lily family, Melanthiaceae - the False-Hellebore Family, or Helondiadaceae - the Swamp-pink Family, the latter ones being created by the redistribution of Liliaceae. Since ITIS places it in Melanthiaceae, and based on the inflorescence it seems suitable in that family, I will also include it there.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Fairy Wand, Devil's Bit, False Unicorn Root, Blazing Star, Grubroot, Squirrel Tail, Rattlesnake-root
False FoxgloveAgalinis tenuifolia
(Native)
Slender Gerardia, Slenderleaf False FoxgloveFound in most of the eastern 2/3 of the United States, it is a plant of "Special Concern" in Rhode Island. It was formerly classified as Gerardia purpurea.

This branching plant may be found in sprawling colonies. It has dark green to purple leaves and stems to about 2-feet tall, with small pink to purple blossoms. Similar species found in the region (from Wildflowers Of Tennessee, The Ohio Valley and the Southern Appalachians) and why I don't think this is that species:
  • Agalinis purpurea (Smooth Purple Gerardia) - Although the specimen photographed on this page have yellow in the throat as does A. purpurea, the pedicels of A. purpurea are shorter, and that species does not exhibit the upper corolla lip extending over the stamens. While the specimens I photographed for this page have hairy stamens, I detected no hair in the corolla tube itself - a characteristic of A. purpurea.
  • Agalinis fasciculata (Fascicled Purple Gerardia) - This species is similar to A. purpurea, but also has another feature missing from A. tenuifolia - clusters of fascicles (tiny leaves) in many of the leaf axils.
  • Agalinis gattingeri (Gattinger's Gerardia) - A. gattingeri has pale green flowering branches, and net-veined calyx tube.
  • Agalinis auriculata (Earleaf False Foxglove) - The leaves of A. auriculata are wide, toothed, and sometimes lobed.


Update 07/20/2012: In researching another Agalinis species, I found that ITIS lists this genus in Orobanchaceae - the Broom-rape family, so I have updated this record, moving it out of the former classification within Scrophulariaceae - the Figwort family.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Slender Gerardia, Slenderleaf False Foxglove
False garlicNothoscordum bivalve
(Native)
False Garlic, CrowpoisonNothoscordum bivalve was formerly classified in the lily family, but has recently been moved to the Amaryllis family. It does not have the oniony-smell of true garlics and onions. It is classified as Rare in Indiana, and as Threatened in Ohio.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MO, MS, NC, NE, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA
False Garlic, Crowpoison
False IndigoAmorpha fruticosa
(Native)
Indigobush, False Indigo Bush, Desert False Indigo, Tall Indigo-bushAmorpha fruticosa is the most widely distributed of the 14 or 15 False Indigo species found in the United States. It is missing in Alaska, Hawaii, Montana, and Nevada. While it is native in most places where it is found, it is classified as a noxious weed in Washington state, and is naturalized in Oregon, Idaho, and Utah. It is also not native to New England and the parts of the upper Atlantic Seaboard where it is found.

Indigobush is a shrub that grows up to 10 feet tall along ponds, streams, rivers, and roadsides. The majority of foliage is in the upper third of the plant.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Indigobush, False Indigo Bush, Desert False Indigo, Tall Indigo-bush
False-buckwheatFallopia japonica
(Introduced)
Japanese Knotweed, Crimson Beauty, Mexican bamboo, Japanese Fleece Flower, ReynoutriaJapanese Knotweed is a highly invasive species native to Asia, introduced as an ornamental in the United States in the 1800s. It reproduces vegetatively from its rhizomes, so removing it and discarding the remains propagate rather than limit the plant. In England it is classified as Controlled Waste and must be burned or transported to a licensed disposal site; it is illegal to include Japanese Knotweed in household garbage. Reportedly UK mortgage lenders are refusing to make loans on properties where the plant is found until remediation plans are made. In the United States, it is officially considered a noxious weed in Alabama, California, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington State.

Fallopia japonica was formerly included in Polygonum (along with the other 11 members of the genus Fallopia), and is still classified as Polygonum cuspidatum in many publications. But some authorities, based on molecular study as well as erect stems, classify Japanese Knotweed as Reynoutria japonica. ITIS lists it in Fallopia; Weakley lists it in Reynoutria; USDA lists it in Polygonum.

Found in:
AK, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Japanese Knotweed, Crimson Beauty, Mexican bamboo, Japanese Fleece Flower, Reynoutria
FawnlilyErythronium americanum
(Native)
Trout Lily, Yellow Dogtooth Violet, Yellow Adder's Tongue, Yellow Trout-LilyTrout lily is one of the early spring wildflowers.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Trout Lily, Yellow Dogtooth Violet, Yellow Adder's Tongue, Yellow Trout-Lily
FawnlilyErythronium grandiflorum
(Native)
Yellow Avalanche Lily, Glacier LilyYellow Avalanche Lily can be found in subalpine mountain meadows, slopes, and in clearings or thinly forested areas. According to Wikipedia, the roots are a preferred food of the grizzly bear. Of the 24 species of Erythronium found in the United States, Erythronium grandiflorum is the only one found in Idaho, according to the USDA Plants Database. It is a native of 9 western states (CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY.)Yellow Avalanche Lily, Glacier Lily
FawnlilyErythronium umbilicatum
(Native)
Dimpled Trout Lily, Dimpled Dogtooth Violet, Southern Appalachian Trout LilyErythronium umbilicatum is one of 6 Erythronium species found in the eastern half of the United States (out of 24 species in North America.) It's primarily a species of the Appalachian mountains south of the Mason-Dixon line, although it is also found outside the Appalachians in southern Georgia as well as a small area of Florida, where it is listed as Endangered.

There are two subspecies of Erythronium umbilicatum - ssp. umbilicatum and ssp. monostolum. Ssp. monostolum is found only in Tennessee and North Carolina (it was also reported in 2010 as being found in Alabama), and is characterized by a single stolon (above-ground root-like structure connecting plants) per bulb connecting the plant with a "child plant". Ssp. umbilicatum is found through much of the southeastern United States; stolons are absent in this subspecies.

Found in:
AL, DC, FL, GA, KY, MD, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV
Dimpled Trout Lily, Dimpled Dogtooth Violet, Southern Appalachian Trout Lily
Fern Osmunda cinnamomea
(Native)
Cinnamon Fern Cinnamon Fern Cinnamon Fern
FeverfewParthenium integrifolium
(Native)
Wild Quinine, American Fever-few
Parthenium is a relatively small genus of Asteraceae with about 16 species worldwide and 7 or 8 in the United States. The genus scientific name Parthenium is Greek for virgin, indicative of the white flowers. The genus common name Feverfew is indicative of its use medicinally, as is the common name of Parthenium integrifolium - Wild Quinine, which has been used in treatment for malaria.

Parthenium integrifolium is the most widespread (or maybe only native) of the eastern Feverfew species, being found in 27 states from Texas and Oklahoma north to Minnesota and east to Massachusetts. It is not a deep south species, being found only in the northern part of the southern tier of states; absent from Florida entirely.

Other than the introduced annual Parthenium hysterophorus (identified by pinnatifid or bipinnatifid leaves with the sinus extending almost to the midrib of the leaf), the perennial Parthenium integrifolium may be the only eastern Feverfew species, depending on how you classify the genus. Many authorities, including Weakley, consider Parthenium auriculatum - Glade Wild Quinine - found in 6 or 7 southeastern states - to be a separate species, but some (including ITIS and FNA) consider it to be a variety of Parthenium integrifolium. Weakley classifies Mabry's Wild Quinine as Parthenium integrifolium var. mabryanum, while ITIS and FNA do not consider it to be a separately recognized variety. There does seem to be relative consensus now, however, to consider Parthenium radfordii as part of Parthenium integrifolium, although those that accept var. mabryanum place it within that variety, while as previously mentioned, some do not accept that varietal level at all.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV, GS
Wild Quinine, American Fever-few
FiddleneckAmsinckia menziesii
(Native)
Common Fiddleneck, Menzie's Fiddleneck, Rancher's FiddleneckThere are 10 species in the Amsinckia (Fiddleneck) genus in the United States, most of which are western species. Amsinckia menziesii, while widespread in the western half of the U.S., is also found in a number of states in the mid-west and east. There are two varieties, and var. intermedia - Common Fiddleneck - is the more widely distributed and commonly found one. While this is a plant native to the United States, it is probably introduced in Alaska, Hawaii.

This is considered a weed by ranchers because cattle won't eat it and it can crowd out other forage plants.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, HI, ID, IL, MA, ME, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NV, NY, OR, PA, SC, TX, UT, VA, WA, WY
Common Fiddleneck, Menzie's Fiddleneck, Rancher's Fiddleneck
FireweedChamerion angustifolium
(Native)
Fireweed, Narrow-leaf fireweed, Willow Herb, Rosebay Willow Herb, Blooming SallyChamerion - Fireweed - has two species - C. angustifolium and C. latifolium, the latter being Dwarf Fireweed, a much shorter plant, with distribution in the US being primarily in the west. C. angustifolium on may grow to 10 feet tall, and one of the two subspecies can be found in every state except for 12 states in the southeastern quadrant of the United States. C. angustifolium ssp. angustifolium is a more northern plant than ssp. circumvagum, with ssp. angustifolium being found only in the northern counties of MN, in Washington State, and in the mountainous states of Montana, Colorado, and Wyoming. It is also found in all of the Canadian provinces.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Fireweed, Narrow-leaf fireweed, Willow Herb, Rosebay Willow Herb, Blooming Sally
FlatsedgeCyperus strigosus
(Native)
False Nutsedge, Strawcolored Flatsedge, Strawcolor NutgrassSedges (and grasses) are notoriously difficult to identify to the species. On top of that, Cyperus is a HUGE genus, with around 600 species in the world, and over 90 (most native) in North America. Add to that my status as a rank amateur, and it is with great trepidation that I approach this identification. Fortunately Cyperus strigosus is one of the more common sedge species, so at least that increases the odds that I have this identification correct.

Alaska is the only state with no Cyperus species. Several species are very widely distributed, with 7 species being found in at least 44 states, based on USDA maps. Cyperus strigosus is one of those 7 species. It is missing only from Alaska and Hawaii, plus four great plains states - Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and North Dakota.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA,CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
False Nutsedge, Strawcolored Flatsedge, Strawcolor Nutgrass
FlaxLinum lewisii
(Native)
Wild Blue Flax, Lewis Flax, Prairie FlaxWild Blue Flax is found in most of the western 2/3 of the United States. There are three recognized varieties found in North America; one found only in the United States, one found only in Canada, and a third found in both the United States and Canada - var. lewisii.

A very similar species is the non-native Linum perenne, an import from Europe, which is found in scatterings across the United States. Some authorities treat the native L. lewisii as a subspecies of L. perenne - my guess is that the treatment may depend on which side of the Atlantic Ocean you call home. Many authorities call Linum perenne var lewisii a synonym of Linum lewisii. Cultivated flax, L. usitatissimum, is also similar in appearance.
Wild Blue Flax, Lewis Flax, Prairie Flax
FleabaneErigeron annuus
(Native)
Eastern daisy fleabaneThere are 191 species in the Erigeron genus, with some species being found in only a single state. Eastern Daisy Fleabane is one of the more widespread species, found in all but 7 states. It is a native plant in both the continental United States and in Canada.

Erigeron anuus is generally 2 to 3 feet tall, branching with many white-rayed, yellow-centered blossoms. It blooms from mid- to late spring on through most of the summer months. It is differentiated from the earlier blooming Philadelphia Fleabane (E. philadelphicus) by narrower leaves which do not clasp the stem, and is differentiated from similar Prairie Fleabane (aka Lesser Daisy Fleabane - E. strigosus) by having stems which are distinctly hairy, and by usually having toothed leaves.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Eastern daisy fleabane
FleabaneErigeron philadelphicus
(Native)
Philadelphia FleabaneClasping leaves is a key identifier for this early blooming fleabane.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Philadelphia Fleabane
FleabaneErigeron strigosus
(Native)
Prairie Fleabane, Lesser Daisy FleabaneThere are 191 species in the Erigeron genus, with some species being found in only a single state. Prairie Fleabane is one of the more widespread species, found in all but 6 states. It is a native plant in both the continental United States and in Canada.

Erigeron strigosus is generally 2 to 3 feet tall, branching with many white-rayed, yellow-centered blossoms. It blooms from mid- to late spring on through most of the summer months. It is differentiated from the earlier blooming Philadelphia Fleabane (E. Philadelphicus) by narrower leaves which do not clasp the stem. It is differentiated from similar Eastern Daisy Fleabane (E. Annuus) by being less hairy, and rarely having toothed leaves. It is also less leafy than Eastern Daisy Fleabane.
Prairie Fleabane, Lesser Daisy Fleabane
FleabaneErigeron pulchellus
(Native)
Robin's PlantainRobin's Plantain is one of the shorter of the eastern fleabanes, growing from 8 to 24 inches tall, but to me it is one of the prettier of the eastern Erigeron species. It is found in 34 of the easternmost states in the United States, and in much of the eastern half of Canada.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Robin's Plantain
FleabaneErigeron bloomeri
(Native)
Scabland Fleabane, Bloomer's Daisy, Bloomer's FleabaneAlthough Scabland Fleabane is the most commonly used common name, I prefer another of the plant's common names - Bloomer's Daisy. The Bloomer's Daisy common name probably won't gain much traction in this digital age, where an Internet search for "Bloomer's Daisy" provides more results for childrens flowered underwear than for this interesting plant. There are three varieties of Erigeron bloomeri (some authorities only recognize two); var. bloomeri has the widest distribution and is the only variety found in Idaho, where these photographs were made.

Erigeron itself is a large and widespread genus, with the USDA Plants Database listing 193 species in North America. Each state of the United States, as well as each territory in Canada, has at least one species of Fleabane present. Most of these are native to the continent, as is the species presented here, Erigeron bloomeri. This species is named for California botanist Hiram G. Bloomer (1819-1874) who collected the plant in Nevada.

There are at least three other members of Erigeron which have rayless, yellow blossoms:
  • E. anaphactis - Rayless Shaggy Fleabane - "Shaggy" because it is quite obviously hairy; bristly hairy.
  • E. reductus - California Rayless Fleabane - is another yellow, rayless Fleabane, found only in California, as implied by its common name. It has linear stem leaves; the other yellow rayless fleabanes do not have stem leaves.
  • E. chrysopsidis var austiniae (syn. E. austiniae) - Sagebrush Fleabane - is a variety of a yellow fleabane which will have no rays or perhaps only vestigial rays. The other varieties of that species have ray flowers. While not as hairy as Rayless Shaggy Fleabane, Sagebrush Fleabane is more apparently hairy than Scabland Fleabane.

  • Found in:
    CA, ID, NV, OR, UT, WA
Scabland Fleabane, Bloomer's Daisy, Bloomer's Fleabane
FluxweedIsanthus brachiatus
(Native)
False Pennyroyal, Fluxweed, Glade BluecurlsThis is one of many plants undergoing changes in classification. According to my research, it was originally considered to be part of Trichostema (Linnaeus, 1737), subsequently became the sole member of the Isanthus genus (Michaux, 1803), in 1978 was sent over to Trichostema for a while (Lewis), and recently some authorities have moved it back to Isanthus as the only species in that genus. Of course, during all of this scientific debate, those of us classified as commoners would have continued to call it whatever we called it previously – be it False Pennyroyal or Fluxweed, or whatever other common name was applied locally. The Trichostema genus members are commonly known as Bluecurls.

False Pennyroyal is listed as Special Concern, Endangered, or Threatened in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, and New Jersey. It is rare in the remaining New England states where it can be found at all.

This plant was pointed out and identified for me by Jay Clark, author of Wildflowers of Pigeon Mountain on a walk through a cedar glade at the foot of Pigeon Mountain in Walker County, Ga in late September.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CT, DC, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
False Pennyroyal, Fluxweed, Glade Bluecurls
Fly PoisonAmianthium muscitoxicum
(Native)
Fly Poison, Stagger GrassAmianthium muscitoxicum is monotypic - this is the only species in the genus, although it is closely related to Death Camas (Toxicoscordion, Stenanthium, Zigadenus, Anticlea), from which it can be distinguished by the brown bracts within the inflorescence, and by having a denser cluster of basal leaves. These genera have been recently moved out of Liliaceae and into the Melanthiaceae - False-Hellebore - family

The species epithet translates to Fly Poison, indicative of the poisonous nature of the plant. All parts are poisonous. The bulb, which is especially poisonous, is a natural insecticide, but in spite of that, some butterflies eat the nectar of the plant without adverse effect. The alternate common name of Stagger Grass is because cattle which eat the plant will stagger, and then perhaps die, from the effects of the poison.

Amianthium muscaetoxicum is an alternate spelling of the scientific name which is not accepted by most authorities. Zigadenus muscitoxicus is a synonym, indicating the close relationship to the genus by which most Death Camas have been classified until recently.

It is Threatened in Kentucky.

Found in:
AL, AR, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Fly Poison, Stagger Grass
Foamflower Tiarella cordifolia
(Native)
Heartleaf Foamflower, False Miterwort, Coalwort, Coolwort, False Bitterroot
Tiarella - Foamflower - is a genus of just a few species; Flora of North America says 3, with 2 being found in North America (the 3rd in Asia.) There has been some disagreement over this, with the eastern species, Tiarella cordifolia - the one presented here - having been classified as several different species at various times, but the differences have not been found to be consistent, and in some cases there was even confusion as to whether the foliage was from the Tiarella plant at all. Additionally, there apparently is some evidence of hybrids between Tiarella, Mitella, and Heuchera species. For now, Tiarella cordifolia is the eastern Foamflower species, found in most states east of the Mississippi, and Tiarella trifoliata, characterized by a 3-part compound leaf vs. the simple leaf of T. cordifolia, is found in 5 states in the northwestern corner of the United States, as well as in Alaska and western Canada.

According to Guido Mase of The Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism, "Leaves rich in saponins, tea used for washing, chest congestion." It is also reported that the leaves were used on scalds and burns to relieve the pain, yielding the "coalwort" and "coolwort" common names.

Found in:
AL, CT, GA, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Heartleaf Foamflower, False Miterwort, Coalwort, Coolwort, False Bitterroot
FogfruitPhyla lanceolata
(Native)
Fogfruit, Lanceleaf Fogfruit, Northern FogfruitWidely distributed. One of the common names is Northern Fogfruit, not because this is not commonly found in the south, but because it is the only Phyla species found commonly in northern states. It is found in wet (frequently foggy) areas - bottom lands, shores of creeks and lakes, and marshes.

It is listed as Endangered in New Jersey, and Rare in Pennsylvania.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI, WV
Fogfruit, Lanceleaf Fogfruit, Northern Fogfruit
Fringed OrchidPlatanthera ciliaris
(Native)
Yellow Fringed Orchid, Orange Fringed OrchidThe Yellow Fringed Orchid is more frequently a bright orange than yellow. It shares the feature of being either orange or yellow with similar species Platanthera cristata - the Yellow Crested Orchid - which has a much shorter spur than P. ciliaris. The spur of Platanthera ciliaris is longer than the flower, frequently extending past the ovary/pedicel combination. It blooms in mid-summer in a variety of locations. These photographs were taken along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Waynesville, NC.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WV
Yellow Fringed Orchid, Orange Fringed Orchid
Fringed OrchidPlatanthera psycodes
(Native)
Small Purple Fringed Orchid, Lesser Purple Fringed Orchid, Lesser Purple Fringed Bog-orchidThere are over 30 species of Platanthera (Fringed Orchid, although some are not fringed) in North America, with at least one species in every state in the United States and every province in Canada. Platanthera psycodes is an eastern species, being found from Minnesota eastward and south to Tennessee and Georgia. It is a plant of moist forests, seepages, and bogs.

Found in:
CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Small Purple Fringed Orchid, Lesser Purple Fringed Orchid, Lesser Purple Fringed Bog-orchid
Fringed OrchidPlatanthera clavellata
(Native)
Small Green Wood Orchid, Club-Spur Orchid, Green Rein Orchid, Wood Orchid, Small Woodland OrchidPlatanthera is a large genus - about 200 species - in the large Orchidaceae (Orchid) Family, a family with between 22,000 and 35,000 species worldwide. Over 30 of the Platanthera species are found in North America, among them the species presented on this page, Platanthera clavellata - Small Green Woodland Orchid. That being said, there is some questions as to whether this plant should be included in Platanthera; it and at least one other North American species in the genus (P. nivea) demonstrate morphological differences in the structure of the flower that are different from other Platanthera species. Platanthera clavellata is protected in at least four states due to its rarity in those jurisdictions. It grows in bogs and other wet areas. Habenaria clavellata is a synonym of Platanthera clavellata.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Small Green Wood Orchid, Club-Spur Orchid, Green Rein Orchid, Wood Orchid, Small Woodland Orchid
Fringed OrchidPlatanthera nivea
(Native)
Snowy Orchid, Bog Torch, Frog Spear, White Frog Arrow, White Rein Orchid
There are over 30 species of Platanthera (Fringed Orchid, although some, such as Snowy Orchid, are not fringed) in North America - around 200 worldwide - with at least one species in every state in the United States and every province in Canada.
Platanthera nivea is primarily an endemic species of bogs and wet savannas of the coastal plains in the southeastern United States, with a few scattered inland populations, such as the disjunct presence in Coffee County, Tennessee. It also had a historical presence in Arkansas County in Arkansas, but it is believed to be extirpated in that state. It was once quite abundant in the outer coastal plains from the Carolinas and southward, but is now classified as rare in North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. It may be missing entirely at the northern end of its range where it was previously present in Delaware, and it is rare in New Jersey. While the USDA lists it as present in Virginia, that may be due to mistaken identification as other authorities do not note its presence there. It is ranked as Critically Imperiled in Tennessee, with the photos on this page taken at its only known location in the state.
Synonym Habenaria nivea

Found in:
AL, AR, DE, FL, GA, LA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, SC, TN, TX, VA
Snowy Orchid, Bog Torch, Frog Spear, White Frog Arrow, White Rein Orchid
FringetreeChionanthus virginicus
(Native)
Fringe-tree, White Fringetree, Old Man's Beard, Grancy graybeard
There is significant disagreement about the circumscription of the Chionanthus genus, with some authorities including only 2 or 3 species, ITIS.gov listing 7 accepted species, and some authorities including the plants of the Linociera genus within Chionanthus, giving it about 60 species, and Wikipedia claims the genus has about 150 species. The genus name comes from the Greek words for snow flower - chion means snow, and anthos means flower.

With a narrower circumscription, Chionanthus virginicus is one of two species found in the United States, with a fairly wide distribution from Texas through the southeastern states and ranging as far north as New York and Massachusetts. The other species is Chionanthus pygmaeus, Pygmy Fringetree, which is found only in the Florida peninsula. Chionanthus virginicus is frequently planted in yards in the South because its showy white flowers show up just as the Dogwood bloom is waning.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV, GS
Fringe-tree, White Fringetree, Old Man's Beard, Grancy graybeard
FritillariaFritillaria pudica
(Native)
Yellowbells, Yellow Fritillary, Yellow Missionbells, Gold BellThis is one of the 3 Fritillaria species found in Idaho out of the 23 total Fritillaria species found in the United States. All of thesea are found only in the western half of the US and Canada. It is a small plant, growing to usually less than a foot tall.Yellowbells, Yellow Fritillary, Yellow Missionbells,  Gold Bell
Fumewort, CorydalisCorydalis flavula
(Native)
Yellow Corydalis, Yellow Harlequin, Yellow Fumewort
Corydalis (Greek korydalis = "crested lark") is a large genus of over 400 species worldwide (most in China), with about 10 species in North America (Corydalis sempervirens has been reclassified as Capnoides semperviren.) A couple of those species are not native to North America. Some authorities now classify Corydalis (and even all genera in the Fumariaceae family) in the Papaveraceae (Poppy) family.

Corydalis flavula - Yellow Corydalis - is a plant of much of the eastern half of the United States outside of New England, and is also in a couple of provinces in Canada. It blooms with its tiny flowers in mid-spring to early summer.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Yellow Corydalis, Yellow Harlequin, Yellow Fumewort
fungiClavariaCoral fungusMaybe genus Clavaria, perhaps C. zollingeri. OK, this is a fungus, not a wildflower, but I like it so it's here. NOTE: I have been advised by Lisa Suits that this is likely in the Ramaria genus rather than Clavaria. Since anyone who known genus from species likely knows as much or more than I about fungi, I'll defer to Lisa. - gcwCoral fungus
GalaxGalax urceolata
(Native)
Beetleweed, Galax, Wandplant, Wandflower, ColtsfootGalax urceolata is monotypic - the only species in the genus. It is a member of the Diapensiaceae family, which in itself is rather small, having only around 14 species. Of these, 6 are found in North America, with the others in Europe and Asia.

While Galax is native to the southeastern United States, disjunct populations that found in New York and Massachusetts are likely not native; probably naturalized garden escapees.

Found in:
AL, GA, KY, MA, NC, NY, OH, SC, TN, VA, WV
Beetleweed, Galax, Wandplant, Wandflower, Coltsfoot
GentianGentiana saponaria
(Native)
Soapwort Gentian, HarvestbellsFannin County GA Nov 10 2008 just outside Cohutta Wilderness. G saponaria has paler flowers than G. clausa, and these had pretty deep blue flowers, but USDA database doesn't show G. clausa this far south, and the leaves of G. clausa seem to be generally wider than these. This is also similar to G. linearis, but USDA database also does not show this in Georgia. Both G. clausa and G. linearis are close enough that they are possibles.Soapwort Gentian, Harvestbells
GentianGentiana villosa
(Native)
Pale Gentian, Striped Gentian, Sampsons SnakerootAlthough at least one Gentiana species is found in every state in the United States (as well as most of Canada), Gentian villosa is found only in the southeastern quadrant of the country, as far north as Indiana, Ohio New York and New Jersey. It is Endangered in Indiana, Maryland, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

Pale Gentian, also known as Striped Gentian, is a plant of forests and open woods, and as with many Gentians, blooms from late August into November.

Found in:
AL, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Pale Gentian, Striped Gentian, Sampsons Snakeroot
GentianGentiana algida
(Native)
Arctic Gentian, Whitish GentianGentiana is a large genus of more than 350 species worldwide, with over 30 species found in North America. It is named after Gentius, the last king of Illyria (which was the region of the western Balkans) before its conquest by Rome in 168 BC. Gentius reportedly discovered the medicinal value of Gentians (specifically Gentiana lutea.).

While the distribution of Gentiana algida is not wide in the United States - found only at high altitudes in the Rockies and in much of Alaska (as well as alpine and subalpine meadows and bogs of eastern Asia and Yukon Territory of Canada) - it can be locally abundant in alpine meadows in those areas where it is found.

Found in:
AK, CO, MT, NM, UT, WY
Arctic Gentian, Whitish Gentian
GentianGentiana calycosa
(Native)
Explorer's Gentian, Mountain Bog Gentian, Rainier Pleated Gentian
Gentiana is a large genus of more than 350 species worldwide, with over 30 species found in North America. It is named after Gentius, the last king of Illyria (which was the region of the western Balkans) before its conquest by Rome in 168 BC. Gentius reportedly discovered the medicinal value of Gentians (specifically Gentiana lutea) At least one Gentiana species is found in every state in the United States (as well as most of Canada.)

Gentiana calycosa is a plant of moist meadows and stream banks in high elevations of western North America - 8 western mountain states in the United States, and in Alberta and British Columbia, Canada. These photos were taken in Glacier National Park at an elevation of around 6600 feet.

Found in:
CA, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Explorer's Gentian, Mountain Bog Gentian, Rainier Pleated Gentian
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GeraniumGeranium maculatum
(Native)
Wild Geranium, Spotted geranium, CranesbillAll geraniums have a "multiples of 5" consistency - 5 petals, 5 sepals, 10 stamens, and a 5-part pistil. G. maculatum is widely-distributed in the eastern United States.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Wild Geranium, Spotted geranium, Cranesbill
GeraniumGeranium viscosissimum
(Native)
Sticky Purple Geranium, Sticky Wild GeraniumGeranium viscosissimum has pink petals with deep red or purple veins.

Found in:
CA, CO, ID, MT, NE, NM, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY
Sticky Purple Geranium, Sticky Wild Geranium
GeraniumGeranium dissectum
(Introduced)
Cutleaf Geranium, Cut-leaved CranesbillA native of Europe, Cutleaf Geranium is a weedy plant is found in 29 states. It grows to about 2 feet tall - or this may be considered 2 feet long, since it is often prone. The stem is densely pubescent - covered with short hairs, as is the rest of the plant. The petioled leaves are alternate and deeply, palmately lobed. The main lobes of the lower leaves are also lobed. The lobes of the lower leaves are usually much broader than on the upper leaves.

A similar species is the United States native Carolina Geranium (Geranium carolinianum), except Carolina Geranium has paler pink - almost white - blossoms, and the upper leaf lobes are broader.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, GA, HI, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WV
Cutleaf Geranium, Cut-leaved Cranesbill
GeraniumGeranium carolinianum
(Native)
Carolina Geranium, Carolina CranesbillGeranium carolinianum is interesting in that while is is considered weedy or invasive in many parts of the country, it is an Endangered or Threatened species in New Hampshire and New York, so may have some legally protected status there. Somewhat supporting the invasive (although native to the U.S.) opinion, it is found in disturbed areas in every state in the lower 48 except Colorado (frankly, it would not surprise me if it's not also there), and is also found in most of Canada. Apparently a naturalized population has not yet been found in Hawaii and Alaska.

The most obvious difference between G. carolinianum and the non-native G. dissectum (Cutleaf Geranium) is the color of the blossom, although other differences are noted below.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Carolina Geranium, Carolina Cranesbill
GermanderTeucrium canadense
(Native)
American Germander, Wood Sage, Canada GermanderWhile there may be as many as 250 species of Germander in the world, only eight are found in North America, with just five of those being native to the continent. The non-native species have limited distribution, as do four of the native species. American Germander - Teucrium canadense, however, is widely distributed on the continent, being found in each of the lower 48 states as well as most of Canada. This is indicative of its weedy nature, and it is considered invasive by some weed authorities.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
American Germander, Wood Sage, Canada Germander
GinsengPanax trifolius
(Native)
Dwarf Ginseng, Ground NutPanax is a genus of about 14 species, 2 of which are native to North America. The more widespread of these two species is Panax quinquefolius - American Ginseng. It has been been so ardently harvested for its medicinal root to the point where it is difficult to find in areas where it has been common in the past, and many jurisdictions have passed restrictions on its collection, but is native to most North America east of the Great Plains. The species presented here, Panax trifolius - Dwarf Ginseng - is a smaller, more northern species, but is found as far south as the Cumberland Plateau and Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee and Georgia. Fortunately, it is not collected for its root, which, pungent but edible, is not considered of significant medicinal value.

Found in:
CT, DC, DE, GA, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Dwarf Ginseng, Ground Nut
GladecressLeavenworthia exigua
(Native)
Tennessee Gladecress, Least Glade-cress, Pasture Gladecress, Kentucky GladecressLeavenworthia - Gladecress - is a small genus of 8 species (7 if you don't subscribe to the separation of Leavenworthia aurea var. texana to species status as Leavenworthia texana) endemic to the southern and southeastern states, some reaching southern Indiana and Ohio at the most northern part of their range, as far west as eastern Texas and Oklahoma. These winter annuals are found in cedar and limestone glades and other nearby areas of thin soils that are saturated during the winter and spring, but dry during the summer and fall. The seeds of these winter annuals germinate during the autumn, and the plant overwinters in the wet environment as a small rosette of leaves. The flowers and seeds come in the early spring while it is still wet, then the seeds lie dormant during the late spring and summer dry season, a season which is desert-like in the cedar and limestone glades.

Leavenworthia exigua is one of the more widely distributed species in the genus, found in 4 states. Only L. uniflora (Michaux's Gladecress) - found in 9 states - has wider distribution. L. exigua is considered by most authorities to have three varieties, although there appears to be some consideration that the varieties are simply forms of the species. L. exigua var. exigua, Tennessee Gladecress, is endemic to limestone glades of several counties in central Tennessee and two counties in northwest Georgia. L. exigua var. lutea, also known as Tennessee Gladecress, has entirely yellow petals and is endemic to limestone glades of one county in Alabama and two counties in Tennessee. The third variety, L. exigua var. laciniata, is known as Kentucky Gladecress and is found in limestone glades of a few counties in Kentucky. It is rare and protected in all four states where it is found. Leavenworthia exigua var. exigua is what is presented on this page.

Found in:
AL, GA, KY, TN
Tennessee Gladecress, Least Glade-cress, Pasture Gladecress, Kentucky Gladecress
GladecressLeavenworthia stylosa
(Native)
Long-styled Gladecress, Nashville Mustard, Cedar GladecressAll 8 species in the Leavenworthia (Gladecress) genus are endemic to eastern North America, from as far north as southern Indiana and Ohio south to Georgia and west to eastern Texas. They are winter annuals - the seeds germinate in the fall, and spend the winter as a rosette of leaves, starting to bloom in late winter or early spring.

Leavenworthia stylosa is found only in limestone glades and nearby sites of 5 Tennessee counties - Bedford, Davidson, Rutherford, Smith, and Wilson.

Found in:
TN
Long-styled Gladecress, Nashville Mustard, Cedar Gladecress
GlechomaGlechoma hederacea
(Introduced)
Ground Ivy, Gill-over-the-ground, Haymaids, Creeping CharlieThis introduced plant has small attractive, colorful blossoms, but it is quite invasive, pushing out other weed plants. It is found in all but 4 of our states.

Its name implies its growth pattern, with the stems trailing along the ground. The stems may be up to 18 inches long, and form roots at the nodes. Large mats of the plant may form. Over the years I have learned to hate this plant in spite of its lovely little flowers.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Ground Ivy, Gill-over-the-ground, Haymaids, Creeping Charlie
GlobemallowSphaeralcea hastulata
(Native)
Spear Globemallow, Spreading Globemallow, Wrinkled Globe MallowSphaeralcea (Globemallow) is a moderately-sized genus of about 50 species worldwide, with about half of those found in North America. All of the species in the United States are found only in the western half of the country - none east of Texas - except for apparently introduced populations of S. fendleri in Massachusetts and of S. angustifolia in Maryland.

Sphaeralcea hastulata has a pretty narrow distribution, being found in arid habitats only in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. There is also at least one report of this plant being found just outside Arizona in southeastern California. There is a lot of variability within the species even in this small range, with up to 11 subspecies and varieties being described by American botanist Thomas H. Kearney in 1935, but since they are difficult to differentiate (especially due to hybridization between species in the genus) very few attempt to differentiate to variety or subspecies. I certainly won't.

Found in:
AZ, NM, TX
Spear Globemallow, Spreading Globemallow, Wrinkled Globe Mallow
Goat's beardAstilbe biternata
(Native)
Appalachian False Goat's Beard, False Goatsbeard, Astilbe biternata is one of two native Astilbe species in North America. Astilbe crenatiloba, as indicated by the common name Roan Mountain False Goat's Beard, has been found only in Carter County, TN on Roan Mountain. It may be extinct because there appear to be no reports of it since the original collection in 1885. Flora of North America indicates that it might have been a local variety rather than a separate species. A. crenatiloba had crenate, rounded teeth rather than the sharp, serrate teeth of Astilbe biternata. There is also an introduced escapee species, Astilbe japonica which may have established itself in the wild in New York and Rhode Island.

Astilbe biternata is a plant of mountain cove forests in the Appalachians from Maryland and Virginia south to Georgia, although some authorities do not list its presence in Maryland.

Found in:
GA, KY, MD, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV
Appalachian False Goat's Beard, False Goatsbeard,
GoatsbeardTragopogon dubius
(Introduced)
Yellow Salsify, Yellow Goatsbeard, Western Salsify, Wild OysterplantFound in 45 states - all but Hawaii, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, and South Carolina - Yellow Salsify is considered an invasive weed in many areas, although apparently with little negative economic impact. The taproot is edible, and is reported to be the reason it was imported into the United States. The reported flavor is reminiscent of oysters, giving it the Wild Oysterplant common name. It was grown in Thomas Jefferson's garden, although from what I can find it was a different Tragopogon species - T. porrifolius.

Found in:
AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Yellow Salsify, Yellow Goatsbeard, Western Salsify, Wild Oysterplant
GoatsbeardAruncus dioicus
(Native)
Goatsbeard, Eastern Goatsbeard, Bride's FeathersAruncus dioicus is a tall plant with attractive inflorescence and foliage which grows in shady areas of moist woodland borders. While some authorities recognize up to three additional Asian species, most authorities consider Aruncus dioicus to be the only species in genus. There are four varieties in the United States, some of which have previously also been considered separate species:
  • var. acuminatus, found on the west coast from northern California north to Alaska, as well as western Canada.
  • var. dioicus, found in the eastern United States from Maine south to Georgia and west to Wisconsin and Mississippi
  • var. pubescens, also an eastern species found in nine states in the East and Midwest. There is some discussion that this should not be maintained as a separate variety from var. dioicus.
  • var. vulgaris, a species introduced from Europe and now naturalized in 3 states.


Found in:
AK, AL, AR, CA, DC, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, TN, VA, WA, WI, WV
Goatsbeard, Eastern Goatsbeard, Bride's Feathers
GoldenasterChrysopsis mariana
(Native)
Maryland Golden Astersynonym: Heterotheca mariana
Maryland Golden Aster grows to about 2.5 feet tall. Stem l eaves are alternate, but there may be a basal rosette of petioled leaves. Long hairs on the stems and to an extent on the leaves make the plant quite silky, becoming less so as the plant matures, and is less hairy in the lower part. Blooms mid-summer thru fall. Endangered or Threatened in Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. In Pennsylvania there are only about 10 remaining populations in the very southeastern part of the state.

Found in:
AL, DC, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Maryland Golden Aster
Goldenaster - FalseHeterotheca subaxillaris
(Native)
Camphorweed, Camphor Weed, False GoldenasterSynonym: Chrysopsis scabra Some authorities consider Heterotheca subaxillaris to be weedy and/or invasive. Apparently this is with good reason, as the plant is quite variable, even to the point that several authorities have considered it to be several separate species rather than a single species with multiple varieties. The different varieties have a great deal of tolerance to different conditions, allow it to thrive and force out other plants when conditions are difficult. Those that take the position of multiple species (Heterotheca latifolia, Heterotheca psammophila, and Heterotheca subaxillaris) also typically indicate that this H. subaxillaris has a native range limited to the Southeast. There have been studies that have indicated that when planted in similar environments, the morphological differences used to justify species separation are not reliable.

It looks similar to other Heterotheca and Chrysopsis species, but if you handle the plant, especially broken leaves, you'll be able to identify it by the distinct camphor-like aroma (some would call is a smell rather than an aroma.)

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA
Camphorweed, Camphor Weed, False Goldenaster
GoldenbannerThermopsis fraxinifolia
(Native)
Ashleaf Goldenbanner, Ash-leaved Bush Pea, Ashleaf Golden BannerRelatively rare throughout its area of distribution and endemic to the southern Appalachians, Thermopsis fraxinifolia is one of 10 Thermopsis species found in the United States. In addition to this species, only 2 other Thermopsis species are found in the east - Thermopsis villosa, and Thermopsis mollis. Apparently the most reliable methods of differentiating them are by observations of the leaf stipules and the bracts / pedicels of the flowers; more on that in the photos below.

Synonym: Thermopsis mollis var. fraxinifolia - some authorities may continue to classify this plant as a variety of Thermopsis mollis.

Found in:
AL, GA, NC, SC, TN - Perhaps now extirpated in Alabama
Ashleaf Goldenbanner, Ash-leaved Bush Pea, Ashleaf Golden Banner
GoldenbannerThermopsis montana
(Native)
Mountain Goldenbanner, Mountain Thermopsis, False Lupin, Golden pea, BuckbeanThermopsis montana is one of 10 Thermopsis species in the United States, although some authorities include it in the very similar T. rhombifolia (Prairie Thermopsis.) T. montana is the more western of these two species, with Montana being the only state having both species.

Thermopsis gracilis is another similar species which is found in the same range in the western United States. Based on my research it may be a less common species, and may be more branching. Since I'm no expert, it is possible that this is T. gracilis rather than T. montana.

Found in:
AZ, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Mountain Goldenbanner, Mountain Thermopsis, False Lupin, Golden pea, Buckbean
GoldenbannerThermopsis mollis
(Native)
Appalachian Goldenbanner, Downy Bush-pea, Allegheny Mountain Golden Banner, Piedmont Bush Pea, Soft-haired Thermopsis
Relatively rare throughout its area of distribution, Thermopsis mollis is one of 10 Thermopsis species found in the United States. Only 3 Thermopsis species are found in the east - this one, Thermopsis villosa - the most widely distributed of the 3, and Thermopsis fraxinifolia - endemic to the southern Appalachians. Thermopsis mollis is a lower elevation plant than T. fraxinifolia, ranging out of the Appalachians into the Piedmont, as well as a bit further north, into Virginia and Kentucky. The most reliable methods of differentiating between the three are by observations of the leaf stipules and the bracts / pedicels of the flowers; more on that in the photos below.

Found in:
AL, GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, VA
Appalachian Goldenbanner, Downy Bush-pea, Allegheny Mountain Golden Banner, Piedmont Bush Pea, Soft-haired Thermopsis
GoldenrodSolidago flexicaulis
(Native)
Zigzag Goldenrod, Broadleaf GoldenrodOne of the woodland goldenrods. 'Zigzag' common name, and probably the species name 'flexicaulis' come from the slight change in direction the stem takes at many of the leaf nodes, especially the upper ones. Solidago flexicaulis is listed as Threatened in Rhode Island.Zigzag Goldenrod, Broadleaf Goldenrod
GoldenrodSolidago altissima
(Native)
Tall Goldenrod, Late Goldenrod, Canada GoldenrodGoldenrods are notoriously difficult to identify to a particular species, so make sure you don't rely on a single source for your identification information. This could easily have been listed as Solidago canadensis rather than Solidago altissima because not only is it a fairly close match for either, but S. altissima is listed as a variety of S. canadensis by some authorities. However, the USDA Plants Database lists S. altissima as a separate species, and the University of Tennessee Fungus Herbarium has a reference to a fungus found on S. altissima in Cade's Cove in 1939. The Audubon eastern wildflowers book also treats it as a separate species, and lists it as blooming into November. Since the UT Herbarium only lists var. glabra in S. canadensis in Tennessee (including Sevier County, where these specimens were photographed), and I have chosen to treat it as a separate species, I have listed this as S. altissima. More details on the identifying characteristics along with the accompanying photographs. Tall Goldenrod, Late Goldenrod, Canada Goldenrod
GoldenrodSolidago curtisii
(Native)
Curtis' Goldenrod, Mountain Decumbent GoldenrodSynonym: Solidago caesia var. curtisii

Solidago is a large genus with around 100 species recognized worldwide, with most of them - around 80 - in North America. There is a Goldenrod found in every state in the United States and in every province in Canada. Curtis' Goldenrod is a species endemic to the central and southern Appalachian area, extending west across the Cumberland Plateau and into the Nashville Basin in Tennessee, and into south Alabama at the southern end of its range. Solidago curtisii has been classified as a variety of the similar S. caesia, which usually is arching and glaucous while Curtis' Goldenrod is usually straight-stemmed with striated stems.

Found in:
AL, GA, KY, MD, MS, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV, GS
Curtis' Goldenrod, Mountain Decumbent Goldenrod
GoldensealHydrastis canadensis
(Native)
Goldenseal, OrangerootGoldenseal has much medicinal usage, and due to the commercial exploitation is becoming rarer. It is listed as Endangered, Threatened, or of Special Concern in 12 of the 27 states in which it is found, including Georgia, where these photos were taken.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Goldenseal, Orangeroot
Grass PinkCalopogon tuberosus
(Native)
Common Grass Pink, Bearded Pink, Swamp Pink, Tuberous Grass Pink, Meadow GiftCalopogon - Grass Pink - is a genus of 5 species, all native only to eastern North America, including the United States, Canada, Cuba, and The Bahamas. Calopogon tuberosus is the most widely distributed species in the genus, and is found in peat bogs, wet meadows, and other open wet areas in the eastern US and southeastern Canada. Due to its relatively wide distribution, one of its common names is Common Grass Pink. The common name Tuberous Grass Pink as well as its species epithet is based on the shape of its corm.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Common Grass Pink, Bearded Pink, Swamp Pink, Tuberous Grass Pink, Meadow Gift
Green VioletHybanthus concolor
(Native)
Green Violet, Eastern GreenvioletUSDA lists 4 species of Hybanthus in the United States. Two are found in only a single state (H. attenuatus in Arizona, and H. linearifolius in Florida). H. verticillatus (Babyslippers) is found in six mid- to southwestern states. The species here, photographed in Georgia, has the widest distribution, being found in most of the eastern half of the United States. It is also found in Ontario, Canada.

Another species, H. parviflorus, is not native to the United States but was found in Georgia in 1998 and identified as that Argentinian species; this species was also found in New Jersey in the 19th century, but has not been identified there since. There are many other species worldwide in the Hybanthus genus, but there is consideration to splitting Hybanthus into two genera - Hybanthus with only a few species (H. concolor remaining) and a much larger genus, Pombalia.

Hybanthus concolor is classified as follows: Connecticut - Special Concern, Florida - Endangered, Iowa - Threatened, New Jersey - Endangered.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Green Violet, Eastern Greenviolet
GreenbrierSmilax herbacea
(Native)
Smooth Carrionflower, Jacob's Ladder, Common Carrion-flower
Smilax is a large genus of around 255 species, the only species in Smilacaceae since the genus Heterosmilax has been merged into Smilax. Plants in the genus occur around the world in temporate and tropical regions. All members of the family are dioecious - male and female flowers are on separate plants. Smilax herbacea is within the Nemexia section of Smilax, the herbaceous rather than woody plants in the genus, which also do not have stickers. This section of Smilax has an interesting history. Originally classified in Smilax (which was part of Liliaceae at the time,) in 1825 it was declared a separate genus named Nemexia by C.S. Rafinesque, based on the lack of prickles on the stems and the presence of staminodes on the pistillate flowers. In 1843 John Torrey determined that they should be instead placed back in Smilax, in a section he named Coprosmanthus. In 1850, shortly before his death, German botanist Carl Kunth elevated Coprosmanthus to species level. Starting with De Candolle in 1878, most authorities have rolled these species back into Smilax, although there is some disagreement on the division within that genus. While most seem to agree that a Nemexia / Coprosmanthus section is appropriate, even as recently as the late 20th century there is disagreement as to whether the section should be called Nemexia or Coprosmanthus.

Smilax herbacea is a widely distributed plant, although the exact distribution is difficult to find. All authorities agree it is a plant of eastern North America (excluding Florida), with the distribution most concentrated along the Appalachian Mountains. The most authoritative sources seem to put the western end of its range well east of the Mississippi River, only as far west as Ohio south to Alabama, some including Indiana. Other authorities, such as the Native Plant Information Network and the USDA Plants Database (map to right) show it in several states west of the Mississippi River. While I have not been able to confirm, this is likely due to raising S. herbacea var. lasioneuron and var. pulverulenta to species level. The primary difference in those plants is relative length of the peduncle to the petiole, and puberance and color of the underside of the leaves. I have chosen to use the wider range of distribution on USWildflowers.com.
Synonym: Nemexia herbacea.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Smooth Carrionflower, Jacob's Ladder, Common Carrion-flower
GroundcherryPhysalis virginiana
(Native)
Virginia Groundcherry, Ground Cherry, Lanceleaf Groundcherry, Hog Plum, Husk TomatoThere are 29 species of Physalis found in the United States in 2012 according to the USDA Plants Database. At least one species is found in every state except Alaska, although neither of the species found in Hawaii (P. philadelphica and P. peruviana) are native to the United States. The species presented here, Physalis virginiana, is one of the more widely distributed species, being found throughout the middle and eastern United States and Canada except for Florida, Rhode Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. It is classified as Endangered in New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Virginia Groundcherry, Ground Cherry, Lanceleaf Groundcherry, Hog Plum, Husk Tomato
GroundnutApios americana
(Native)
Groundnut, Potato Bean, Indian Potato, Virginia Potato, Wild Bean, Wild Sweet PotatoTwo of the 8 to 10 Apios species in the world are found in the U.S. - the narrowly distributed and U.S. Threatened Apios priceana, Price's Potato Bean, and the species presented here, Apios americana, Groundnut. Apios americana is found in every state east of the Rocky Mountains. It is a perennial vine that grows to 10 feet long in wet areas - marshy meadows and thickets, stream and pond banks, and moist woodlands.

The common names attributed to these species speak to the edibility of both the tuber and the seeds. Apios americana was a noteworthy food of both native Americans as well as early colonists of New England. It is a good source of carbohydrates and protein.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Groundnut, Potato Bean, Indian Potato, Virginia Potato, Wild Bean, Wild Sweet Potato
GumweedGrindelia squarrosa
(Native)
Curlycup Gumweed, Curlytop Gumweed
Grindelia (Gumweed) is a genus of about 30 species of the Americas, native to parts of South America, Mexico, and the United States, with a few species have spread into Canada as alien. About 18 species are found in the United States, most in the west to the Great Plains, but with a few east of the Mississippi.

Grindelia squarrosa is the most widely distributed species of Gumweed in the United States. It is native to the western part of the country into the Great Plains, and has naturalized in much of the rest of the country outside of the deep south. It is considered invasive in parts of its range, spreading rapidly in overgrazed grasslands and dry waste places.

Found in:
AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WY
Curlycup Gumweed, Curlytop Gumweed
HawksbeardCrepis intermedia
(Native)
Limestone Hawksbeard, Smallflower HawksbeardThis was one of the more difficult identifications I've done, and even now, after hours of research, I'm not certain I've got this correct as Crepis intermedia. I pretty quickly identified the plant in my photos and memory as a member of the Crepis genus, using my copy of Idaho Mountain Wildflowers and a quick search on the Internet to get a closer blossom photo. But there are 25 species of Crepis found in the United States, with nine of them found in Idaho, where I photographed this plant. Unfortunately, most of the species of Crepis are very similar in appearance, especially to the untrained, unacquainted eye such as mine.

Some species had a characteristic that quickly eliminated it from my short-list (or not-so-short list) of nine species - C. bakerii has reddish stems, for example. So, armed with understanding of variances within a species, it came down to comparing a lot of photos on the Internet with mine - most from CalPhoto - and a couple of key characteristis - leaf shape, and hair configuration. Some species were eliminated from contention because the shape of the leaf lobes weren't deep enough, such as that on C. occidentalis. Combining those features with another key differentiator - glandular hairs - finally brought me to the Crepis intermedia decision. And since there are other species with glandular hairs, and the hairs on C. intermedia are not always glandular, that leaves me with one of my lower confidence levels in this being an accurate identification. Caveat emptor!
Limestone Hawksbeard, Smallflower Hawksbeard
HawkweedHieracium venosum
(Native)
Rattlesnake Weed, Rattlesnake Hawkweed, Veiny Hawkweed is listed as Endangered in Maine. Officially listed as a noxious weed in Washington state, even though the USDA doesn't list it as being found in Washington State. The fact that it is listed as a noxious weed in that state implies that it is indeed found there, and it is listed for neighboring British Columbia, so I'm including it in Washington's list here on USWildflowers.com. I suspect that with this being a disjunct location - Hieracium venosum is an eastern species - that the British Columbia and Washington populations are not native.

In traditional herbal medicine, a decoction of the plant was reputed to relieve the effects of the bite of venomous snakes, according to The National Dispensatory by Alfred Stille and John Michael Maisch, second edition published in 1879.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Rattlesnake Weed, Rattlesnake Hawkweed, Veiny Hawkweed
HawkweedHieracium aurantiacum
(Introduced)
Orange Hawkweed, Devil's PaintbrushThis non-native species is listed as a noxious weed in five states. Hieracium aurantiacum is found in most of the northern United States from coast to coast, and a number of southern states as well. It is also found in much of Canada.

Found in:
AK, AR, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Orange Hawkweed, Devil's Paintbrush
HeartleafHexastylis shuttleworthii
(Native)
Largeflower Heartleaf, Shuttleworth's GingerThere are three North American genera in the Birthwort family (Aristolochiaceae) - Aristolochia (Dutchman's Pipe), Asarum (Wild Ginger), and Hexastylis (Heartleaf.) Ten of the Aristolochiaceae species are in Hexastylis; all these are native to North America, primarily in the southeastern part of the United States. Some authorities include the Hexastylis species within the Asarum genus instead of maintaining separation. The Hexastylis genus gets its name from the six styles in the flower. Most of the differences between species have to do with the shape of the calyx tube and features of the calyx lobes and interior of the calyx.

Hexastylis shuttleworthii - Shuttleworth's Ginger, Largeflower Heartleaf - is one of the more widely distributed species in the genus, being found mainly near creeks in forests of the Appalachian mountains of 6 southeastern states, with a disjunct population on Long Island in New York. It should be noted that there is some indication that the examples in NY, VA, and WV, may be larger-flowered specimens of Hexastylis heterophylla. There are two varieties of Hexastylis shuttleworthii with the difference being in the shape of the rhizome and how the leaves are distributed along the rhizome.

Found in:
AL, GA, MS, NC, NY, SC, TN, VA
Largeflower Heartleaf, Shuttleworth's Ginger
HeartleafHexastylis arifolia
(Native)
Little Brown Jug, Arrowleaf GingerThere are three North American genera in the Birthwort family (Aristolochiaceae) - Aristolochia (Dutchman's Pipe), Asarum (Wild Ginger), and Hexastylis (Heartleaf, sometimes also called Wild Ginger.) Ten of the Aristolochiaceae species are in Hexastylis; all these are native to North America, primarily in the southeastern part of the United States. Some authorities include the Hexastylis species within the Asarum genus instead of maintaining separation. The Hexastylis genus gets its name from the six styles in the flower. Most of the differences between species have to do with the shape of the calyx tube and features of the calyx lobes and interior of the calyx.

Hexastylis arifolia, the most widespread species in the genus, is of the southeastern United States, being found from Kentucky and Virginia south to the Gulf coast states east of the Mississippi River, including eastern Louisiana. It is protected as Threatened in Florida. There are three generally recognized varieties - var. arifolia, var. callifollia, and var. ruthii with variations of the calyx tube and lobes used to differentiate.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA
Little Brown Jug, Arrowleaf Ginger
Hedge ParsleyTorilis arvensis
(Introduced)
Spreading Hedge Parsley, Field Hedge Parsley, Common Hedge ParsleyTorilis arvensis, which has the USDA national common name of Spreading Hedge Parsley, is also known as Field Hedge Parsley and as Common Hedge Parsley. It is introduced in the United States, native only to British Columbia in North America. Even though it has spread widely in the United States due to the sticky bur seeds, it apparently does not crowd out native species too aggressively, because it is listed as an obnoxious weed in only one state - Washington, which is, of course, right across the border from BC, where it is native. Torilis japonica is a very similar species, and is in fact listed as a synonym of T. arvensis at the Department of Biological Sciences at Vanderbilt University. However, the USDA lists it as a separate species, as does Dr. John Hilty over at IllinoisWildflowers.info. According to Dr. Hilty, the primary difference between the plants is that T. japonica has about 8 linear bracts at the base of each compound umbel. This feature is missing in T. arvensis.Spreading Hedge Parsley, Field Hedge Parsley, Common Hedge Parsley
HempvineMikania scandens
(Native)
Climbing Hempweed, Climbing BonesetThere are only two Mikania (Hempvine) species found in the United States outside of Puerto Rico. Mikania cordifolia, Florida Keys Hempvine, is found in the very deep south, and the species presented here, Mikania scandens. Mikania scandens is found in swampy woods, damp ditches, pond margins, and wet creeksides throughout most of the eastern United States from Texas to Maine, and has also been introduced into Ontario, Canada.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA
Climbing Hempweed, Climbing Boneset
HoarypeaTephrosia virginiana
(Native)
Goat's Rue, Virginia Tephrosia, Catgut, Hoary-pea, Rabbit-peaTephrosia virginiana - Goat's Rue - is the most widely distributed species in the Tephrosia - Hoarypea - genus, being found in every state east of the Mississippi River except for Vermont, and also in a number of states west of the Mississippi. There is apparently some disagreement as to plants classified in this genus, because I've seen it variously described with from 32 to 350-400 species in the genus. Tephrosia virginiana is Endangered in New Hampshire and classified as Special Concern in Rhode Island and Minnesota.

Goat's Rue contains rotenone, a chemical used as an insecticide and pesticide. The plant also was reportedly used by native Americans to stun fish for easy harvesting.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Goat's Rue, Virginia Tephrosia, Catgut, Hoary-pea, Rabbit-pea
HogpeanutAmphicarpaea bracteata
(Native)
American HogpeanutThis thin-stemmed twisting vine is the only species in the Amphicarpaea genus, a member of the Pea family. It twists around other plants and on fences, reaching up to 6 feet in length.

This plant produces flowers along the stem/vine, shown on these pages, and also at the base of the stem. These basal flowers produce an edible bean-like fruit, which apparently can be quite tasty when cooked. Sometimes these fruits develop underground, similarly to a peanut.
American Hogpeanut
HoneysuckleLonicera sempervirens
(Native)
Trumpet HoneysuckleGrundy County, TN, 05/25/2008Trumpet Honeysuckle
HoneysuckleLonicera japonica
(Introduced)
Japanese HoneysuckleNon-native, imported from Asia as an ornamental, this lovely, fragrant vine is well-established in 38 states, and is listed as a noxious weed in two, plus is banned from cultivation in New Hampshire.Japanese Honeysuckle
HoneysuckleLonicera fragrantissima
(Introduced)
Sweet Breath of Spring, Fragrant Honeysuckle, Winter Honeysuckle, January JasmineThis non-native is one of the bush honeysuckles, and has arching stems to 10 feet tall. Most of the native honeysuckles are vines.

This is a very early-blooming plant, sometimes as early as January in the warmer parts of its range. In some areas it is given the common name January Jasmine, which is the same common name as is given to Jasminum nudiflorum. The latter is in the olive family rather than the honeysuckle family. Both plants bloom at about the same time, and L. fragrantissima blossoms fade to yellow as they age, which may lead to some confusion between the species. However, L. fragrantissima has a very distinct, pleasant fragrance, and Jasminum nudiflorum has none.

According to TexasInvasives.org, L. fragrantissima was introduced from Asia in the 1700s and 1800s. Since it is currently listed in only 13 states, it does not appear to be as dramatically invasive as its cousin, Lonicera japonica - Japanese honeysuckle - which is in 39 states. However, my observation of the plant is in a county in Tennessee (Hamilton) that is not included in the official distributions lists, so it is likely that it is more widespread than much documentation implies. L. fragrantissima is an eastern species in the US, being found west of the Mississippi only in Utah and Louisiana.

Found in:
AL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, UT, VA
Sweet Breath of Spring, Fragrant Honeysuckle, Winter Honeysuckle, January Jasmine
HoneysuckleLonicera flava
(Native)
Yellow Honeysuckle, Pale Yellow HoneysuckleOne of our native honeysuckles, this vine prefers upland rocky forests, bluffs, and streamsides. There is some stiffness to the stems, so it may also appear as a small shrub.

Similar species are L. dioica and L. reticulata.

Endangered in Illinois, Special Concern in Tennessee, critically imperiled in Kansas, Presumed Extirpated in Ohio.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, IL, KS, KY, MO, NC, OH, OK, SC, TN
Yellow Honeysuckle, Pale Yellow Honeysuckle
HoneysuckleLonicera utahensis
(Native)
Utah Honeysuckle, Red Twinberry, and Fly HoneysuckleThis native honeysuckle is found in the mountains of 8 western states and western Canada, up to the treeline. It is a perennial shrub growing up to about 6 feet high, blooming in late spring to early summer.

Found in:
AZ, ID, MT, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY
Utah Honeysuckle, Red Twinberry, and Fly Honeysuckle
Horse GentianTriosteum angustifolium
(Native)
Yellow Horse Gentian, Yellowfruit Horsegentian, Narrow-leaved Horse-gentian, Lesser Horse-gentian, Yellow Tinkers WeedThere are three species in Triosteum found in the United States, with the westernmost distribution being in Kansas. All three of these are widely distributed in the east and south. Triosteum angustifolium is a bit more of a southern species than the other two. That is exemplified by the fact that the places where it is Endangered are more northern states - Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, TN, TX, VA, WV
Yellow Horse Gentian, Yellowfruit Horsegentian, Narrow-leaved Horse-gentian, Lesser Horse-gentian, Yellow Tinkers Weed
HorsebalmCollinsonia verticillata
(Native)
Whorled Horsebalm, Early StonerootCollinsonia currently has 4 recognized species, although there have been as many as 10 in the past. This implies significant variation within some species.

Found in nine mostly southeastern states (AL, FL, GA, KY, NC, OH, SC, TN, VA), Collinsonia verticillata is listed as endangered in Ohio and Kentucky.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, KY, NC, OH, SC, TN, VA
Whorled Horsebalm, Early Stoneroot
HorsetailEquisetum laevigatum
(Native)
Smooth Horsetail, Smooth Scouring RushThe genus name Equisetum comes from the latin words for "horse" and "bristle." Equisetum laevigatum is a fern rather than a flowering plant, but I believe it deserves a place on these pages. It reproduces by spores and and spreads by rhizomes. Found throughout most of the United States except the most northeastern and southeastern states, Smooth Horsetail is Endangered in New York. It is usually found in wet areas, although it may also occasionally be found on drier ground.

Found in:
AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SD, TX, UT, WA, WI, WY
Smooth Horsetail, Smooth Scouring Rush
Hound's tongueCynoglossum virginianum
(Native)
Wild Comfrey, Wild Hound's-tongue, Blue HoundstongueWoodland wildflower of late spring. There are eight species in the Cynoglossum genus found in the US, three of which are native to North America - C. grande (CA, OR, WA), C. occidentale (CA, OR), and this species, C. virginianum, with one of the two varieties of the species found in most of the eastern half of the U.S. - 34 states.

Wild Comfrey is at risk in 9 states:
  • Connecticut: Special Concern
  • Florida: Endangered
  • Maine: Endangered
  • New Hampshire: Endangered
  • New Jersey: Endangered
  • New York: Endangered
  • Ohio: Presumed Extirpated
  • Pennsylvania: extirpated
  • Vermont: Threatened
Wild Comfrey, Wild Hound's-tongue, Blue Houndstongue
Hound's tongueCynoglossum officinale
(Introduced)
Houndstongue, Hound's Tongue, GypsyflowerFound in all but 7 states (and most of Canada), Cynoglossum officinale is listed as a noxious weed in Colorado, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming.Houndstongue, Hound's Tongue, Gypsyflower
HydrangeaHydrangea arborescens
(Native)
Wild Hydrangea, SevenbarkWild Hyndrangea is listed as endangered in both Florida and New York.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Wild Hydrangea, Sevenbark
HydrangeaHydrangea quercifolia
(Native)
Oakleaf HydrangeaA native species in the United States, Oakleaf Hydrangea is found in the wild only in the eight southeastern states - Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, as well as the District of Columbia. You're likely to see it in other states, however, because it started gaining popularity as a garden plant in the late 20th century. Several showy cultivars are available. The natural, native plant, which has more of the large white florets than the other native wild hydrangeas, is quite attractive as a yard shrub. I've noticed quite a number of them growing in yards on Lookout Mountain in Tennessee and Georgia.

It is a shrub that can grow quite large, as tall as 8' or 10' (some reports of 25'), and its many branches growing from the base can spread to cover a wider area than it is tall.

Found in:
AL, DC, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN
Oakleaf Hydrangea
Indian BreadrootPediomelum subacaule
(Native)
Nashville Breadroot, Whiterim Scurfpea, Glade PotatoThere are over 20 Pediomelum (Indian Breadroot) species in the United States, but only about 5 in the east, and only one of those (P. canescens, Buckroot) has relatively wide eastern U.S. distribution. The other eastern species have very narrow distribution, as is the case with Pediomelum subacaule, which is found only in limestone cedar glades in two northwest Georgia counties, four counties in Alabama, and in several counties in middle Tennessee. It is considered rare in both Alabama and Georgia. The plants presented here were photographed in a cedar glade in the Catoosa County, Georgia part of the Chickamauga Battlefield section of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park.

The species epithet subacaule references the minimal stem of the plant - the multiple leaf stalks arise directly from the underground root, as does the leafless floral stem.

Found in:
AL, GA, TN
Nashville Breadroot, Whiterim Scurfpea, Glade Potato
Indian Cucumber RootMedeola virginiana
(Native)
Indian Cucumber RootIndian Cucumber Root, Big Frog Trail, Polk County TN 05/09/2009 and 05/30/2004Indian Cucumber Root
Indian PaintbrushCastilleja covilleana
(Native)
Rocky Mountain Indian Paintbrush, Coville Indian PaintbrushRocky Mountain Paintbrush is one of the red Indian Paintbrushes, although it can occasionally be orange or even yellow. It is found commonly in Idaho, but in no other states except very rarely in Montana. It is a leafy, hairy plant, up to about a foot high. A. Scott Earle, in Idaho Mountain Wildflowers, describes it as "spidery." It is very similar to Northwestern Indian Paintbrush, Castilleja angustifolia, and frankly I'm not certain I have this ID correct. That's due to the similarity of the two species, and because the USDA does not list C. covilleana in Ada County, ID, where I photographed this plant. However, it does list C. angustifolia in Ada County. However, Northwestern Indian Paintbrush seems to be a more erect plant, being up to 18 inches tall, and Jepsen describes angustifolia as having up to 5 lobes on the leaf. The Montana Field Guides website, operated by the Montana state government, says C. covilleana can have up to 7 lobes on the leaves, and I have found at least one leaf (and I think more) in my photos of this plant with 7 lobes. The middle, terminal lobe of the leaf will be almost as narrow as the lateral lobes. The hairs on the plant in my photos also seems fitting with the long, soft hairs described for C. covilleana.

Found in:
ID, MT
Rocky Mountain Indian Paintbrush, Coville Indian Paintbrush
Indian PaintbrushCastilleja linariifolia
(Native)
Wyoming Paintbrush, Narrow-leaved Indian Paintbrush, Desert PaintbrushThe Castilleja genus - Indian Paintbrush - is named for Domingo Castillejo, an 18th-century Spanish botanist. The plants in this genus are hemiparasitic - while they produce their own nutrition, they also get nutrition from the roots of other plants when their roots touch and then penetrate those plants' roots (the entire Orobanchaceae family of plants are root-parasitic.) The vast majority of the approximately 200 species in the genus are found in western North America. Many of those species in western North America have very limited distribution, some only in some very specific, small area, such as Castilleja aquariensis, which is found only in the subalpine meadows of the Aquarius Plateau, which is entirely contained within two counties in southern Utah.

Castilleja linariifolia is, however, one of the more widespread members of the genus, being found in the mountainous areas of 10 western states. It is the state wildflower of Wyoming. The specimens shown here were photographed in Arches National Park in the desert of eastern Utah, and in the Petrified Forest National Park of eastern Arizona.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WY
Wyoming Paintbrush, Narrow-leaved Indian Paintbrush, Desert Paintbrush
Indian PaintbrushCastilleja coccinea
(Native)
Scarlet Indian Paintbrush, Scarlet Paintbrush, Painted Cup, Prairie FireThe Castilleja genus - Indian Paintbrush - is named for Domingo Castillejo, an 18th-century Spanish botanist. The plants in this genus are hemiparasitic - while they produce their own nutrition, they also get nutrition from the roots of other plants when their roots touch and then penetrate those plants' roots (nearly the entire Orobanchaceae family of plants are root-parasitic.) The vast majority of the approximately 200 species in the genus are found in western North America. Many of those species in western North America have very limited distribution, some only in some very specific, small area. Many publications show Castilleja in the Scrophulariaceae family; in about 1995 (followed by the time to publish and be accepted) it was moved into Orobanchaceae as part of the distribution of most genera in Scrophulariaceae into several other families (some new.)

Castilleja coccinea, however, is a very widely distributed species, found in every state east of the Great Plains except Florida, and is one of only 3 species found east of the Mississippi River. The others are Castilleja septentrionalis (Labrador Indian Paintbrush) which is found but rare in Minnesota, Michigan, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, near the Canada border (as well as being found in the Rocky Mountains,) and Castilleja kraliana (Cahaba Paintbrush) which is found only in Bibb County, Alabama.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, WI, WV, GS
Scarlet Indian Paintbrush, Scarlet Paintbrush, Painted Cup, Prairie Fire
Indian PipeMonotropa uniflora
(Native)
Indian Pipe, Ghost Flower, Ghost PlantWhen first seen, Indian Pipe seems more like a mushroom or other fungus than like a true flowering plant due to the color - or lack of color. However, it has a stem, bract-like scales in place of leaves, and a single flower at the end of the stem. The single flower gives it the species epithet - uniflora - which is a key difference between this species and Monotropa hypopitys, the only other species in the Montropa genus. Monotropa hypopitys (Pinesap) has multiple flowers in a cluster on each stem. The Monotropa genus has recently been moved into Ericaceae - the Heath family.

Indian Pipe has roots through which it gathers its nourishment. The plant lacks chlorophyll but instead gleans its fix carbon from a mycorrhizal fungus in the soil where it grows. The fungus derives its own carbon from the roots of a host tree. Thus, while I would argue that it is a mutually beneficial relationship because nothing in a forest environment is ultimately wasted, Monotropa uniflora is considered to be an epiparasite - a parasite feeding on another parasite. (This paragraph was updated 2019-10-20 based on an email from a reader pointing out that Monotropa uniflora is a parasitic plant, one getting nourishment from fungi while providing no direct benefit to the host organism.)

Update 2017-08-15: My assertion that pollinated Monotropa uniflora plants turn pink and straighten to upright was challenged recently. Since the description on this page was written long ago (8 or 9 years), I do not have records of the references from which I drew that conclusion. I apologize for purveying this apparent misinformation. With current research, it's clear that this species can be pink without having been pollinated.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Indian Pipe, Ghost Flower, Ghost Plant
Indian PlantainArnoglossum reniforme
(Native)
Great Indian PlantainGreat Indian Plantain is 3 to 9 feet tall, with basal and stem leaves which are palmately lobed. The leaves can be huge. The blossoms have white disk flowers only, with 10 to 20 blossoms per terminal cluster. The involucre bracts are greenish white. The only Indian Plantain in the area where these photos were taken with palmately lobed leaves are A. atriplicifolium and A. reniforme. The identification as A. reniforme is based on the distinct ribbing on the stems, which is 'slight' on A. atriplicifolium, and the fact that the stems in this specimen are not glaucous. The leaves also are a darker green than in Pale Indian Plantain. Unfortunately I did not photograph the underside of the leaves, nor did I make notes as to whether they were glaucous or not, as they are in A. atriplicifolium, and are not glaucous in A. reniforme.Great Indian Plantain
Indian StrawberryDuchesnea indica
(Introduced)
Indian Strawberry, India MockstrawberryIndian Strawberry is a prone, creeping plant which produces roots at the leaf nodes. It produces red strawberry-like fruits, but they are tasteless (but also harmless.) Because of the fruit, it could be confused with wild strawberry, but that plant has white blossoms. It is also similar to Dwarf Cinquefoil, which has 5 leaflets instead of the 3 leaflets of Indian Strawberry. Duchesnea indica was introduced from India. The relationship to cinquefoil (both in the rose family) is emphasized by an effort to have it reclassified as Potentilla indica, based on a genetic study published in 2002. So far it appears that most authoritative sources have retained the old classification.Indian Strawberry, India Mockstrawberry
IpomopsisIpomopsis aggregata
(Native)
Scarlet Gilia, Scarlet Skyrocket, Scarlet Trumpet, Skunk FlowerThe Ipomopsis genus name is from Greek for Striking Appearance (ipoo + opsis.) The Scarlet Gilia common name results from the significant amount of time it was classified in the Gilia genus as Gilia aggregata. The Gilia genus is named for Italian clergyman and naturalist Filippo Luigi Gilii. swcoloradowildflowers.com has a good biographical sketch of Mr. Gilii.

Ipomopsis gilia has been bounced around in several different genuses (all within the Phlox family) and even recently some authorities still classified it in three different species. Most authorities now seem to have agreed upon this single species classification, but with several different subspecies still being used. As is the case with so many other western plant species, Scarlet Gilia was collected by Lewis and Clark in 1806 on their famous expedition, finding it in what is now northern Idaho.

The Primary pollinators are hummingbirds (attracted more to the red form) and long-tongued moths, who seem to be attracted more by the unpleasant odor of the plant. This unpleasant odor gives it the "Skunk Flower" common name sometimes applied.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OK, OR, TX, UT, WA, WY
Scarlet Gilia, Scarlet Skyrocket, Scarlet Trumpet, Skunk Flower
Iris Iris cristata
(Native)
Crested Dwarf Iris Iris is a genus of 225 to 280 species worldwide, about 30 to 35 growing wild in North America. Because of the large, showy flowers and easy growing nature, they are a popular garden plant. The American Iris Society shows 1425 different Irises.

The Dwarf Crested Iris is one of the 28 native irises found in the United States. I find it to be one of the more exciting finds on any of my wildflower walks, even though it is fairly common.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, GA, IL, IN, IA, KY, MD, MS, MO, NC, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Crested Dwarf Iris
IrisIris prismatica
(Native)
Slender Blue Flag, Slender Blue Iris, Coastal IrisIris is a genus of 225 to 280 species worldwide, about 30 to 35 growing wild in North America. Because of the large, showy flowers and easy growing nature, they are a popular garden plant. The American Iris Society shows 1425 different cultivated Irises.

Iris prismatica is a plant primarily native to the Atlantic Seaboard of the United States (let's include Pennsylvania in that description since Philadelphia has an ocean port via the Delaware River), along with disjunct populations in Tennessee and Alabama (and inland sites in seaboard states) which are known to oddly host otherwise coastal species. It is also reported to be found in the wild as likely introduced waif populations in West Virginia, and grows as in introduced species in Ontario and Nova Scotia, Canada. While the USDA map to the right doesn't show it in Alabama, there are vouchered specimens which were collected in Cherokee (1970, 1978) and Etowah (1995) Counties. It is rare throughout its range except for the relatively short range of New Jersey north through Massachusetts, and is legally protected in at least six states. It is a plant of brackish- and fresh-water swamps, bogs, and wet meadows.

Found in:
AL, CT, DE, GA, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Slender Blue Flag, Slender Blue Iris, Coastal Iris
IrisIris verna
(Native)
Dwarf Violet Iris, Vernal Iris, Spring Iris, Upland Dwarf IrisVernal Iris (USDA common name is Dwarf Violet Iris) leaves are up to about 4 to 5 inches tall, with the large, colorful blossom being predominant above the leaves during the blooming season - mid to late spring.

Iris verna is listed as endangered in Maryland and Pennsylvania, and threatened in Ohio.
Dwarf Violet Iris, Vernal Iris, Spring Iris, Upland Dwarf Iris
IrisIris domestica
(Introduced)
Blackberry Lily, Leopard Flower, Leopard LilyIntroduced from Asia, Iris domestica escaped from cultivation and apparently naturalized fairly quickly since Augustin Gattinger, a Tennessee botanist from the 19th century, believed it to be a native species. This was previously classified as Belamcanda chinensis, the only species in the genus Belamcanda, but recent molecular studies have resulted in the reclassification into the Iris genus as Iris domestica.

"Blackberry" in the common name comes from the tight clusters of dark seeds the plant produces.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Blackberry Lily, Leopard Flower, Leopard Lily
IrisIris pseudacorus
(Introduced)
Yellow Flag Iris, Paleyellow Iris, Yellow Iris, Water FlagIris pseudacorus is a species brought in from Europe as a decorative plant for its attractive yellow flowers, escaped, and has established itself well in wet areas throughout much of North America. Think cattails for the habitat in which it grows. It has been used as a plant in natural sewage treatment since it can remove metals from waste water. Its propagation is restricted as an invasive weed in a number of states ranging from Massachusetts to Washington and California.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Yellow Flag Iris, Paleyellow Iris, Yellow Iris, Water Flag
IronweedVernonia gigantea
(Native)
Tall Ironweed, Giant Ironweed, IronweedOne or more species of Ironweed is found in 40 of the 50 states. Vernonia gigantea is one of the more widespread species, being found in 25 states. As the name implies, it can be a tall species, up to 10 feet. The purple flowers bloom in August and on into November.Tall Ironweed, Giant Ironweed, Ironweed
Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Indian TurnipArisaema triphyllum
(Native)
Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Indian Turnip, Jack in the Pulpit, Jack-in-the-Pulpit usually has a single leaf with 3 leaflets on a stem from 12 to 36 inches tall, usually less than 2 feet. The tiny flowers are on a spike (spadix) which is encircled by a leaf-like spathe on a separate stem from the leaf. These stems separate at or near ground level. The spathe is green or purple and is usually striped.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Indian Turnip, Jack in the Pulpit,
Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Indian TurnipArisaema dracontium
(Native)
Green Dragon, DragonrootWhile there are around 170 species of Arisaema in the world, there are only 2 to 6 in the United States, the number depending on whether you subscribe to treating Arisaema triphyllum broadly, with a number of different subspecies, varieties, and forms, or, as seems to be the trend lately to treat these as separate species. In any case, there is no dispute that the other U.S. Arisaema - Green Dragon - is a distinct species, Arisaema dracontium.

A. dracontium is a relatively rare plant of moderately moist to wet woodlands and thickets in most of the eastern half of the United States, although it is absent from Maine and Rhode Island. It usually flowers in spring and early summer, although in Mexico it may bloom in late winter.

As with all members of Araceae, ingesting uncooked plants (all parts) can cause significant distress - irritation and swelling of lips, tongue, and throat.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Green Dragon, Dragonroot
Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Indian TurnipArisaema quinatum
(Native)
Prester John, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Preacher John, Southern Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Five-leaved Jack-in-the-PulpitIn my VERY limited observation there are notable differences between this plant, Arisaema quinatum, and Arisaema triphyllum and most other species of Arisaema. The most easily noticed difference is that A. quinatum has the appearance of having 5 leaflets while all the other species (except A. dracontium) clearly have three. The few individuals I have observed also implies that A. quinatum blooms later, the spathe is smaller relative to the flowering stalk height, and the spadix is thinner than in A. triphyllum. A. quinatum is also found much less frequently than Arisaema triphyllum, as well as having a much narrower distribution in North America, limited to several southeastern states.

Synonym: Arisaema triphyllum ssp. quinatum

Update 04/11/2016: I was recently looking at Arisaema, a genus I haven't investigated for identification for quite some time, in Alan S. Weakley's Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic United States and I discovered that Weakley separates as species this plant and others that have been considered subspecies to Arisaema triphyllum in most "official" publications - such as ITIS and Flora of North America. I agree with this separation, and now list it on this site as Arisaema quinatum.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, MC, SC, TN, TX
Prester John, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Preacher John, Southern Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Five-leaved Jack-in-the-Pulpit
Jacob's LadderPolemonium pulcherrimum
(Native)
Showy Jacob's Ladder, Jacob's Ladder, Skunky Polemonium, Skunkleaf PolemoniumI have found varying reports of 20 to 40 species being listed in the Polemonium (Jacob's Ladder) genus worldwide. The USDA Plants Database lists 24 species in the United States, with a species being absent only in four states - Florida, Louisiana, Nebraska, and South Carolina. Of those 24 USDA-listed species, 2 are non-native, and an amazing 12 of them are found only in a single state (although a couple of those are also found in parts of Canada.)

The native North American members of this genus are primarily found in the western half of the continent with the notable exceptions of the relatively rare Vanbrunt's Polemonium (P. vanbruntiae) which protected in 6 of the 7 northeastern states where it is found, and Greek Valerian (P. reptans) which is found in most of the eastern half of the United States and Canada. Polemonium pulcherrimum is found in the twelve westernmost states (exclusive of Hawaii) and in most of western Canada. It is a plant of mid to high elevations.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Showy Jacob's Ladder, Jacob's Ladder, Skunky Polemonium, Skunkleaf Polemonium
Jewelflower, TwistflowerStreptanthus cordatus
(Native)
Heartleaf Twistflower, Heart-Leaved Jewelflower
Streptanthus is a fairly small genus of around 35 species of Mexico and the United States - all are found in the U.S. There are none east of the Mississippi River, although a few species are found as far east as Arkansas and one is in Louisiana. 24 species are found in California.

Streptanthus cordatus is the most widely distributed species in the genus, found in areas dominated by sagebrush, in woodlands, and in rocky soil from 4,000 to 10,000 feet of elevation from California east to New Mexico and north into Colorado, Idaho, and Oregon. It is rare in Oregon.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, NM, NV, OR, UT, WY
Heartleaf Twistflower, Heart-Leaved Jewelflower
JimsonweedDatura stramonium
(Introduced)
Jimsonweed, Jamestown Weed, Mad Apple, Moon Flower, Stinkwort, Thorn Apple, Devil's TrumpetThis purple-stemmed, introduced species is found in every state in the United States except Alaska and Wyoming, and is also found in much of Canada, and indeed throughout warm and moderate regions of the entire world. It is a banned weed in Connecticut and Pennsylvania, and is listed as an invasive by authoritative sources in most of the United States. In addition to being invasive, it is toxic, with the level of toxicity varying from plant to plant, and even from day to day in the same plant. Ingestion can be fatal. Toxicity is a common feature of plants in the Solanaceae (Nightshade / Potato) family.

The name Jimsonweed, a variant of Jamestown weed, originated because British soldiers were drugged with it near Jamestown, Virginia in 1675 by local farmers during Bacon's Rebellion, an inauspicious page in North American history, about which I had no knowledge until researching this plant.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Jimsonweed, Jamestown Weed, Mad Apple, Moon Flower, Stinkwort, Thorn Apple, Devil's Trumpet
JimsonweedDatura wrightii
(Native)
Sacred Datura, Sacred Thorn-apple, Indian Apple, Angel TrumpetThe Datura genus scientific name has its origin in the word 'dhattura' - the Sanskrit word for 'white thorn-apple.' Thorn-apple is a reference to the prickly-spined fruit, and is one of the common names for the genus. The common name most commonly used in the United States for the genus is 'Jimsonweed' (which is also the most commonly used common name for the most widespread species in the genus, Datura stramonium). That common name is derived from the name of the first English settlement in North America, Jamestown, Virginia and originated because British soldiers were drugged with it near the town in 1676 by local farmers during Bacon's Rebellion, an inauspicious page in North American history.

Datura wrightii, Sacred Datura, is fairly widely distributed in North America, although its distribution out of its presumed native range - Mexico and the southwestern United States - is pretty scattered. It prefers well-drained soils of flood plains, blooming in late summer and early fall. Sacred Datura is a poisonous plant - it can be deadly. Parts of it are hallucinogenic, and as such it was (and possibly still is) used in Native American religious rites and continues to be used, sometimes with deadly results, by people seeking an hallucinogenic "trip".

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TX, UT, VA, WV, WY
Sacred Datura, Sacred Thorn-apple, Indian Apple, Angel Trumpet
Joe Pye WeedEutrochium fistulosum
(Native)
Hollow Joe Pye Weed, Trumpetweed, Tubular Thoroughwort, Hollow-stemmed Joe-pye-weed
There are only five species in the Eutrochium genus, Joe Pye Weed. These were previously classified in the Eupatorium genus (Thoroughworts.) The separating characteristics are the whorled leaves and purple-tinted flowers of Eutrochium, versus mostly opposite leaves and white flowers in the plants remaining in Eupatorium. Eutrochium was named Eupatoriadelphus until it was determined that the Eutrochium name had seniority.

Hollow Joe Pye Weed (previously Eupatorium fistulosum) is found in 30 of our eastern/southern states. There is much overlap between E. fistulosus and the other 2 species; E. dubius is found on the eastern seaboard, and E. maculatus (Spotted Joe Pye Weed) is the most widespread species, found in 36 states and most of Canada.

Maine - Special Concern; Michigan - Threatened; New Hampshire - Endangered. Some consider it to be a weed.
Hollow Joe Pye Weed, Trumpetweed, Tubular Thoroughwort, Hollow-stemmed Joe-pye-weed
Joe Pye WeedEutrochium maculatum
(Native)
Spotted Joe Pye Weed, Purple Boneset, Spotted Trumpetweed
There are only five species in the Eutrochium genus, Joe Pye Weed. These were previously classified in the Eupatorium genus (Thoroughworts.) The separating characteristics are the whorled leaves and purple-tinted flowers of Eutrochium, versus mostly opposite leaves and white flowers in the plants remaining in Eupatorium. Eutrochium was named Eupatoriadelphus until it was determined that the Eutrochium name had seniority.

Spotted Joe Pye Weed (formerly Eupatorium maculatum) is the most widespread of the Eutrochium species, being found in 36 states (BONAP shows only 35.) (E. steelie is the least widespread, found only in 4 states.)

Found in:
AZ, CO, CT, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Spotted Joe Pye Weed, Purple Boneset, Spotted Trumpetweed
Joe Pye WeedEutrochium steelei
(Native)
Appalachian Joe Pye Weed, Steele's Eupatorium, Steele's Joe Pye Weed
There are only five species in the Eutrochium genus, Joe Pye Weed. These were previously classified in the Eupatorium genus (Thoroughworts.) The separating characteristics are the whorled leaves and purple-tinted flowers of Eutrochium, versus mostly opposite leaves and white flowers in the plants remaining in Eupatorium. Eutrochium was named Eupatoriadelphus until it was determined that the Eutrochium name had seniority.

Appalachian Joe Pye Weed, Eutrochium steelei, is the species in the genus with the narrowest distribution. A southern Appalachians endemic, it is found only in 5 southeastern states, in the mountains along the borders of Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee, and reports that it is Towns county in northernmost Georgia, although the presence in Georgia seems to be disputed. It is found in the Appalachian Mountains in hardwood forests up to about 5,000' elevation, blooming in late summer thru early fall. These photographs were taken near the Tennessee-North Carolina border along a mountainous dirt road, as indicated by the dust on the leaves.

Found in:
GA, KY, NC, TN, VA, GS
Appalachian Joe Pye Weed, Steele's Eupatorium, Steele's Joe Pye Weed
KittentailsSynthyris missurica
(Native)
Tailed Kittentails, Mountain Kittentails, Mountain KittentoesSynthyris species are found only in eight northwestern states, in Alaska, and in northwestern Canada. There are three subspecies of Synthyris missurica - ssp. hirsuta, found only in Oregon, ssp. stellata, found in Oregon and Washington, and the one presented here, ssp. missurica, found in those two states as well as northern California, Idaho, and Montana. It should be noted that ITIS lists a major subspecies, and does not accept the hirsuta subspecies. In the southern end of its range Synthyris missurica is found only in higher elevations. It is an early blooming plant, shortly following snow melt, or even while some snow is still on the ground.

Synthyris missurica is one of many species that have been moved out of the Scrophulariaceae family (figworts.) It has been moved to family Plantaginaceae (Plantains,) one of several families receiving species from the disintegrating Figwort family.

Found in:
CA, ID, MT, OR, WA
Tailed Kittentails, Mountain Kittentails, Mountain Kittentoes
KnapweedCentaurea cyanus
(Introduced)
Bachelor's Button, Bluebottle, Cornflower, Garden CornflowerThis introduced species was brought over to North America as an ornamental by immigrants from Europe, and is commonly cultivated. It is now found wild in every state except Alaska, and is also found in most of Canada. It is considered weedy or invasive by some authorities.

In its native southern Europe, this flower grows among the grainfield, giving it the "Cornflower" common name.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Bachelor's Button, Bluebottle, Cornflower, Garden Cornflower
KudzuPueraria montana
(Introduced)
Kudzu, Vine-that-ate-the-SouthOriginally imported from Japan in 1876 in a effort to fight erosion, this plant is one of our earlier ecological nightmares, especially in the southeastern United States. Up until the early 1950s farmers were encouraged to plant Kudzu as a ground cover in area subject to erosion. Due to its extremely invasive nature, It is now recognized and officially listed as a noxious weed in many states.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WV
Kudzu, Vine-that-ate-the-South
Ladies TressesSpiranthes lacera
(Native)
Ladies' Tresses, Northern Slender Lady's Tresses, Southern Slender Ladies' TressesSpiranthes is a genus of orchids with about 45 species, nearly 25 of which are found in North America. It is a terrestrial herb characterized by primarily basal leaves which are frequently withered by flowering, and a terminal spike of small, light colored flowers (white, cream, yellow, or pink) which are usually arranged in a spiral around the stem.

Spiranthes lacera is one of the half-dozen or so Spiranthes species with fairly broad distribution, being found in the entire eastern half of the United States west to Texas, Nebraska, and Minnesota, and in Canada as far west as Alberta. There are two varieties, S. lacera var. lacera and S. lacera var. gracilis. Var. gracilis is the more widely distributed variety, found in all but the most northern and western parts of the species' range. Var. lacera is not found south of the Virginia west to Missouri latitude.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA,VT, WI, WV
Ladies' Tresses, Northern Slender Lady's Tresses, Southern Slender Ladies' Tresses
LadyslipperCypripedium acaule
(Native)
Pink Ladyslipper, Moccasin Flower This member of the orchid family has a solitary blossom on a hairy stem arising from two or sometimes three elliptical glossy, dark green, ribbed, hairy basal leaves. The "acaule" species epithet refers to the fact that there are no stem leaves - all other Ladyslipper species have stem - cauline - leaves.Pink Ladyslipper, Moccasin Flower
LadyslipperCypripedium parviflorum
(Native)
Yellow Ladyslipper, Lesser Yellow Lady's Slipper, Greater Yellow Lady's Slipper, Small Flowered Yellow Lady's SlipperThere are about 45 species of Cypripedium - Lady's Slipper, Ladyslipper, Moccasin Flower - worldwide, with about a dozen found in the United States. Of these, Cypripedium parviflorum is the most widely distributed, with a variety being found in each state except four (Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, Nevada.) Although it is the most widely distributed, in most of its range it is uncommon or rare, being classified as Threatened or Endangered in at least 6 states, and having legal protection in others.

Cypripedium parviflorum was first thought to be within the European and Asian species Cypripedium calceolus. There are three varieties usually recognized, although due to variability (and confusion) they can be difficult to differentiate. While var. pubescens carries the common name Greater Yellow Ladyslipper, in some habitats it can have flowers of similar size to those of var. parviflorum, which is known by the common name Lesser Yellow Ladyslipper. While var. makasin has similar lip size (15-29mm) to those usually found on var. parviflorum, the range is more northerly (boreal habitat) and apparently the more distinct attribute of this boreal variety is the aroma - intensely sweet, versus a faint or moderately rose-like or musty aroma in the other two varieties.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Yellow Ladyslipper, Lesser Yellow Lady's Slipper, Greater Yellow Lady's Slipper, Small Flowered Yellow Lady's Slipper
LarkspurDelphinium tricorne
(Native)
Dwarf Larkspur, Spring Larkspur
Delphinium is a large genus of about 300 species, with over 60 found in North America - most of them native, all of them poisonous, so do not ingest. The majority of the North American species are western and northwestern species, with only a few found east of the western great plains.

Delphinium tricorne is a woodland wildflower of mid to late spring. The plant will usually be 18 to 30 inches tall, unlike some of its cousins which might be up to six feet tall. The spurred blossoms are blue, white, or both blue and white.

Many thanks to Mike Christison of the Georgia Botanical Society who notified me that these were blooming at Sitton's Gulch of Cloudland Canyon State Park, where I photographed the plant for the first time.
Dwarf Larkspur, Spring Larkspur
LarkspurDelphinium carolinianum
(Native)
Carolina Larkspur, Blue Larkspur, Glade Larkspur, Prairie Larkspur, Pine Woods LarkspurDelphinium is a large genus of about 300 species, with over 60 found in North America - most of them native, all of them poisonous, so do not ingest. The majority of the North American species are western and northwestern species, with only a few found east of the western great plains. Delphinium carolinianum - Carolina Larkspur - is among those found in the eastern part of the nation, with a fairly wide distribution primarily in the midwest, extending south into Texas and Louisiana, and eastward to Kentucky, Tennessee, and South Carolina. Delphinium carolinianum has four accepted subspecies:
  • ssp. carolinianum (Blue Larkspur, Prairie Larkspur) will usually not have its basal leaves present at anthesis (while flowering) - all other subspecies' basal leaves are normally present at anthesis. The sepals of this subspecies are usually blue or purple, but occasionally white. This species has a wide distribution in the south extending up into the midwest as far north as Iowa.
  • ssp. calciphilum (Glade Larkspur) is found east of the Mississippi in limestone glades of AL, GA, KY, and TN. Sepals are white to pale blue. This is generally the shortest of the subspecies, usually no more than 18 inches tall. This is the subspecies presented on this page.
  • ssp. vimineum (Pine Woods Larkspur, Blue Larkspur) is another widely distributed subspecies, found in the midwest from Texas north to Minnesota and the Dakotas into Manitoba, Canada. It will rarely have more than 3 leaf divisions, and the flowers may have blue or white sepals.
  • ssp. virescens - (Plains Larkspur, White Larkspur) Some authorities consider this subspecies to be synonymous with ssp. calciphilum. With some minor morphological differences in the leaves and height (ssp. virescens more in both attributes), ssp. virescens is found west of the Mississippi River in deeper soils, while ssp. calciphilum is found east of that river in shallow soils of limestone glades. The sepals are white or very pale blue.
Subspecies calciphilum is presented here.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, FL, GA, IA, IL, KS, KY, LA, MN, MO, MS, ND, NE, OK, SC, SD, TN, TX, WI
Carolina Larkspur, Blue Larkspur, Glade Larkspur, Prairie Larkspur, Pine Woods Larkspur
LaurelKalmia latifolia
(Native)
Mountain LaurelMountain Laurel is a shrub found in most states east of the Mississippi River.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Mountain Laurel
LaurelKalmia buxifolia
(Native)
Mountain Myrtle, Sand MyrtleKalmia buxifolia was formerly classified as Leiophyllum buxifolium. Based on molecular and morphological studies published in 1996 (Kron and King) and 2002 (Kron et al) it was reclassified into the Kalmia genus. This seems odd to me since they don't appear to be similar at all (especially since I only know Kalmia from Mountain Laurel - Kalmia latifolia.) However, since Weakley has accepted it who am I to argue? Among the similarities are the poisonous nature of the leaves and wood of all species now in the Kalmia genus. (The monotypic genus Loiseleuria was also rolled into Kalmia.)

Kalmia buxifolia features tiny blossoms atop branches with tiny succulent leaves.

Found in:
GA, KY, NC, NJ, PA, SC, TN
Mountain Myrtle, Sand Myrtle
LeafcupPolymnia canadensis
(Native)
Whiteflower Leafcup, White Bear's Foot, Smallflower LeafcupCommon woodland wildflower of early- to mid-summer.

There are four species of Polymnia. (A 5th, Polymnia uvedalia, is now classified as Smallanthus uvedalia - Yellow Leafcup.) Three of the Polymnia species are found in the United States. P. cossatotensis - Cossatot Mountain Leafcup - is found only in Arkansas. P. laevigata - Tennessee Leafcup - is found in 6 of the states in which White Leafcup - Polymnia canadensis is found. Polymnia canadensis is found in many states in the eastern half of the country, and is also found in Ontario, Canada. It is Endangered in Connecticut and Vermont.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NY, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Whiteflower Leafcup, White Bear's Foot, Smallflower Leafcup
LeafcupSmallanthus uvedalius
(Native)
Hairy Leafcup, Bear's Foot, Yellow Leafcup, UvedaliaTall leafy plant with VERY large leaves and yellow flowers with typical aster family structure - ray flowers and disk flowers. Leaves are opposing. The occasional branches seem to arise from the leaf axils.

Synonym: Polymnia uvedalia, which seems to be in more common use than what is now the new classification, Smallanthus uvedalius. This is the only species in the the Smallanthus genus listed in the USDA Plants Database, although the Missouri Botanical Gardens TROPICOS database list 26 species in the genus. I suspect the other 25 species are not found in the United States.

Uvedalia has been used for medicinal purposes, including treatment of rheumatism and hair loss.

The species is listed as Endangered in New York and New Jersey, and as Threatened in Michigan, where it has legal protection.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Hairy Leafcup, Bear's Foot, Yellow Leafcup, Uvedalia
Leather FlowerClematis terniflora
(Introduced)
Sweet Autumn Clematis, Sweet Autumn Virginsbower, Leatherleaf Clematis, Yam-leaved ClematisSweet Autumn Clematis is a non-native climbing vine with sweet-smelling white blossoms. Sweet Autumn Virginsbower is the USDA "national common name." According to the Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council it can be weedy or invasive, and that is also my personal observation.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WV
Sweet Autumn Clematis, Sweet Autumn Virginsbower, Leatherleaf Clematis, Yam-leaved Clematis
Leather FlowerClematis viorna
(Native)
Leather Vasevine, Leather Flower, VasevineClematis viorna is a vine that is grows to around 20 feet long. Primarily a southeastern species, it is listed as endangered in Illinois and Pennsylvania.Leather Vasevine, Leather Flower, Vasevine
Leather FlowerClematis ligusticifolia
(Native)
Western Clematis, Western White Clematis, Western Virgin's Bower, Creek Clematis, Old Man's Beard, Pepper VineThis is the Virgin's Bower found most frequently in the western parts of the U.S. and Canada, growing in a variety of habitats. The plant may be toxic if ingested, and can cause skin irritations. According to Flora of North America, "Infusions prepared from the plants of Clematis ligusticifolia were used medicinally by Native Americans as a wash for skin eruptions, a lotion for backaches or swollen limbs, and a lotion to protect one against witches; stems and leaves were chewed to treat colds and sore throats; decoctions of leaves were also used as a wash and for stomachaches and cramps; and lathers of leaves were used to treat boils on humans and on animals (D. E. Moerman 1986)."

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, KS, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, OK, OR, PA, SD, UT, WA, WY
Western Clematis, Western White Clematis, Western Virgin's Bower, Creek Clematis, Old Man's Beard, Pepper Vine
Leather FlowerClematis hirsutissima
(Native)
Vase-flower, Sugarbowl, Leather-flower, Hairy ClematisWhen I saw this flower in the campground at Ponderosa State Park I immediately thought of Clematis viorna due to the shape of the flower, except that unlike C. viorna this plant is not a vine - all my prior Clematis experience - and it is hairy - the blossom of C. viorna is smooth and leathery. I then thought maybe this is Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum), but a quick look in my copy of Idaho Mountain Wildflowers - A. Scott Earle confirmed the Clematis connection - Clematis hirsutissima. There are two varieties of this species - var. hirsutissima and var. scottii. The one presented here is var. hirsutissima.

Found in:
AZ, CO, ID, MT, NE, NM, OK, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY
Vase-flower, Sugarbowl, Leather-flower, Hairy Clematis
Leather FlowerClematis occidentalis
(Native)
Western Virgin's Bower, Western Blue Virginsbower, Mountain Clematis, Purple Clematis, Purple Virgin's-bowerClematis occidentalis is a viny plant which carries its violet blue to purple (occasionally purplish pink or white) blossoms between mid spring and early summer. It is one of two species in the Atragene subgenus of Clematis, the other being Clematis columbiana. It seems the primary visual difference between the species is the trifoliate leaf form, with C. columbiana being 2-3 ternate, while C. occidentalis is 1-ternate. Also the leaf margins of C. columbiana are usually serrate, while those of C. occidentalis are either entire or may be toothed. These small differences result in what is apparently a frequent incorrect identification in the western states where the ranges of the two species overlap. Of course, it is possible that I have incorrectly identified it here.

There are three varieties of Clematis occidentalis: var. grosseserrata is found only in the western U.S. and Canada, var. occidentalis is found only in the eastern U.S. and Canada, and var. dissecta which is found only in Washington state. Var. occidentalis is pretty rare, and is listed in the following Illinois (Endangered), Maine (Special Concern), Maryland (Endangered), Massachusetts (Special Concern), Ohio (Presumed Extirpated), and Rhode Island (Endangered.)

Found in:
CO, CT, DE, IA, ID, IL, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Western Virgin's Bower, Western Blue Virginsbower, Mountain Clematis, Purple Clematis, Purple Virgin's-bower
Leather FlowerClematis virginiana
(Native)
Virgin's Bower, Devil's Darning Needles, Old Man's BeardThere are over 30 Clematis species in the United States. There are some significant differences in the floral and vegetative attributes within the genus, and experts have divided it into four subgenera - some experts have classified subgenus Atragene instead as genus Atragene and subgenus Viticella as genus Viticella. The species presented here, Clematis virginiana, is part of subgenus Clematis, characterized by thin spreading sepals (rather than leathery ones found in the subgenus Viorna or bell-shaped perianths of subgenus Atragene.) The sepals of subg. Clematis are white or yellow, usually in many-flowered inflorescences.

Clematis virginiana has the widest distribution of the native species east of the Rocky Mountains, with Clematis ligusticifolia having that distinction in the west. These are similar species, and both are found in North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma, with C. ligusticifolia being found westward from there and C. virginiana also in Texas and eastward from there.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Virgin's Bower, Devil's Darning Needles, Old Man's Beard
Leather-rootOrbexilum pedunculatum
(Native)
Sampson's Snakeroot, False Scurf-peaThis plant can be easily identified as a member of the pea family (Fabaceae) based on the flowers and leaves, but the seedpod is circular rather than the long peapod fruit we normally expect from Fabaceae. It is a plant primarily of the southeastern United States, although its range extends northward into Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and southern Michigan.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA
Sampson's Snakeroot, False Scurf-pea
LespedezaLespedeza cuneata
(Introduced)
Sericea LespedezaThere are native lespedeza species in the United States, but L. cuneata is an introduced species.Sericea Lespedeza
LettuceLactuca canadensis
(Native)
Wild Lettuce, Canada LettuceTall plant with milky sap and yellow flowers. Leaves usually lobed, especially the lower leaves, but that is not always the case. Some authorities recognize multiple varieties, primarily based on leaf shape. Similar to non-native species Lactuca serrata, but that plant has prickles on the foliage.

Akin to garden lettuce, the young leaves are edible either in salads or cooked; slightly bitter.
Wild Lettuce, Canada Lettuce
LettuceLactuca floridana
(Native)
Woodland Lettuce, Florida Blue Lettuce, False LettuceBranching plant with loose cluster of small blue flowers. Lower leaves lobed, alternate; upper leaves lanceolate, entire or toothed.

Officially listed as Threatened in Michigan and as Endangered in New York, the New York City Wildflower Week reports to me that in New York it is found in a single site in the Bronx Borough.
Woodland Lettuce, Florida Blue Lettuce, False Lettuce
LettuceLactuca serriola
(Introduced)
Prickly Lettuce, China LettuceA species introduced from Eurasia, this plant has established itself in every state except for Alaska

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Prickly Lettuce, China Lettuce
LilyLilium philadelphicum
(Native)
Wood Lily, Mountain Lily has quite widespread distribution in the United States and Canada. While it is common in the high mountains of the Rocky Mountains in the western part of its range, it is rare in the more eastern part of the range. Protected due to rarity in Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland (Extirpated,) New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Tennessee.

The plant featured on this page was photographed at one of only three known populations of the plant in Georgia, along a road in Cloudland Canyon State Park. Roadsides are among its common habitats, along with meadows, open woods, thickets, dunes, and tallgrass prairies.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Wood Lily, Mountain Lily
LilyLilium superbum
(Native)
Turk's Cap Lily, Turban Lily, Lily Royal, Swamp Lily, American Tiger LilyOf the 100 or so species of Lilium worldwide, about 22 are found in North America. Of those 22, over half have pendent flowers - their pedicels curve around downward, and the flower hang toward the ground like pendants. Turk's Cap Lily - Lilium superbum - is one of those pendent lilies. The common name Turks Cap comes from the shape of the perianth, with tepals (or petals and sepals) strongly reflexed, giving it somewhat the shape of the bulbous turbans worn by some Turks in ages past - Nasreddin (17th-century miniature).

Lilium superbum is Fairly widely distributed, being found in most states east of the Mississippi River, as well as in Arkansas and Missouri. Within its range, there are several similar pendent Lilium species, including L. michauxii (Carolina Lily) and L. michiganense (Michigan Lily.) L. superbum is the largest of the native pendent lilies; other differentiating diagnostics are noted along with the photos below.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, MN, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, TN, VA, WV
Turk's Cap Lily, Turban Lily, Lily Royal, Swamp Lily, American Tiger Lily
Lily of the ValleyConvallaria majuscula
(Native)
American Lily of the ValleyLily of the Valley - American. Off Big Frog Trail on Chimneytop, Polk County TN.

This plant is considered poisonous, but it is reported to contain cardio glycosides, compounds that will strengthen the heart under carefully controlled dosing.

Found in:
GA, KY, NC, PA, TN, VA, WV
American Lily of the Valley
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LionsheartPhysostegia virginiana
(Native)
Obedient Plant, False Dragonhead, ObediencePhysostegia virginiana is found in moist sunny areas in much of the eastern and central United States, as well as eastern Canada. It is protected in Rhode Island (Special Concern) and Vermont (Threatened.)

The attractive blossoms last well when cut. They have been used in flower arrangements and stay in position when moved, resulting in the Obedient Plant common name. They bloom in mid to late summer.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WI, WV
Obedient Plant, False Dragonhead, Obedience
LobeliaLobelia puberula
(Native)
Downy Lobelia
Lobelia is a large genus, with over 400 species worldwide; nearly 50 are found in North America. Most are herbaceous - as are all North American continental species, but a few African and Hawaiian species are trees or shrubs. The leaves are alternate in either a spiral or two rows on the stem. Most Lobelia flowers have an opening on the top of the corolla tube nearly or entirely to the base, and may also have side fenestrations. The corolla is typically two-lipped, with the upper lip having two lobes (usually erect) and the lower lip almost always three lobes (usually spreading.) The 5 stamens are joined together in a tube with the stamens exserted from the corolla, usually through the opening in the top of the corolla tube.

Lobelia puberula is the most common blue Lobelia in the Southeast.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV, GS
Downy Lobelia
LobeliaLobelia cardinalis
(Native)
Cardinal Flower, Scarlet LobeliaThis is the showiest of our North American Lobelia species with the bright red blossoms (although it may rarely be white), and is also the most widely distributed. I originally thought the "Cardinal" name came from the bird, but according to Wildflowers of Tennessee, the Ohio Valley and the Southern Appalachians, the name comes from the robes which Catholic Cardinals wear, which are this same color of crimson.

Lobelia cardinalis is entirely pollinated by hummingbirds, but bees gather nectar thru the slits in the sides of the corolla tube.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Cardinal Flower, Scarlet Lobelia
LobeliaLobelia inflata
(Native)
Inflated Lobelia, Indian TobaccoSmall plant with tiny 1/4-inch flowers white to bluish flowers. While the common name Indian Tobacco implies that it was used for smoking, there are reports that the plant should be considered toxic. However, according to Guido Mase of The Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism,it is an "important remedy: allays spasm, anti-asthmatic, useful to quit tobacco." I assume that this information from Guido implies a specific knowledge of how to properly use the herb. Inflated Lobelia, Indian Tobacco
LobeliaLobelia siphilitica
(Native)
Great Blue Lobelia, Blue Cardinal FlowerThe species epithet is because at one time it was believed the plant was used by native Americans to treat syphilis. Ingestion of the root can cause vomiting. It should be considered poisonous.

While the flowers are usually blue, in rare cases they may be white.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY, GS
Great Blue Lobelia, Blue Cardinal Flower
LobeliaLobelia spicata
(Native)
Palespike Lobelia, Pale Spiked LobeliaFound in most states except the far west, Palespike Lobelia grows 1 to 4 feet tall, with alternating lanceolate leaves that are short relative to the height of the plant.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Palespike Lobelia, Pale Spiked Lobelia
LobeliaLobelia kalmii
(Native)
Ontario Lobelia, Brook Lobelia, Bog Lobelia, Kalm's LobeliaLobelia is a large genus, with around 350 species worldwide; nearly 50 are found in North America. Many of these have an affinity for wetlands; Lobelia kalmii is one of these, classified as OBL - obligate wetland; almost always found in wetlands - greater than 99% probability. It inhabits marshy areas and river, stream, and lake edges. The plants on this page were photographed on a very small (50 by 150 feet) rocky island in the North Channel of Lake Huron in Ontario, Canada, very much a wet area.

Lobelia kalmii (Syn: Lobelia strictiflora) is a northern species, found coast to coast in Canadian provinces from Novia Scotia to British Columbia. In the United States it is also found from the east coast to the west coast in northern states, only as far south as southern Ohio and northern West Virginia in the east, and Washington state in the west. It is classified as Threatened in New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Washington.

Found in:
CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, ME, MI, MN, MT, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SD, VT, WA, WI, WV
Ontario Lobelia, Brook Lobelia, Bog Lobelia, Kalm's Lobelia
LobeliaLobelia gattingeri
(Native)
Gattinger's Lobelia
Lobelia is a large genus, with over 400 species worldwide; nearly 50 are found in North America. Most are herbaceous - as are all North American continental species, but a few African and Hawaiian species are trees or shrubs. The leaves are alternate in either a spiral or two rows on the stem. Most Lobelia flowers have an opening on the top of the corolla tube nearly or entirely to the base, and may also have side fenestrations. The corolla is typically two-lipped, with the upper lip having two lobes (usually erect) and the lower lip almost always three lobes (usually spreading.) The 5 stamens are joined together in a tube with the stamens exserted from the corolla, usually through the opening in the top of the corolla tube.

Lobelia gattingeri (formerly Lobelia appendiculata var. gattingeri) is a species with a very small distribution, being found only in limestone glades in two counties in south central Kentucky and a few counties in central Tennessee. Reports for north central Alabama are now believed to be incorrect, although there are appropriate habitats in that region where it may yet be found. Lobelia gattingeri is named for Bavarian-born Dr. Augustin Gattinger, who came to Tennessee in 1849 at the age of 24. He lived in Tennessee until his death in 1903, practicing medicine and becoming one of the state's foremost botanists, bringing particular note to the special botanical characteristics of the cedar glades found in central Tennessee.

Found in:
AL, KY, TN
Gattinger's Lobelia
LoosestrifeLythrum salicaria
(Introduced)
Purple Loosestrife, Rosy Strife, Kill WeedLythrum is a fairly small genus with about 36 species worldwide, with 13 species found in the United States, only 6 of which are native.

The species presented here, Lythrum salicaria, Purple Loosestrife, is the most widely distributed species, and it is not a native. Introduced as an ornamental from Eurasia in the 1800s, this is a highly invasive (but, unfortunately, attractive) weed, especially in northeastern parts of the United States. It is found in damp grasslands and banks of rivers and streams in every state except Florida, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and is a threat to wetlands in all of them. It is prohibited in at least 33 states - DO NOT CULTIVATE THIS PLANT even though it continues to be sold by some nurseries, claiming that the plants they are selling are sterile - they may be right, but they may be incorrect, and it is not worth the risk.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Purple Loosestrife, Rosy Strife, Kill Weed
LopseedPhryma leptostachya
(Native)
Lopseed, American LopseedPhryma is a monotypic (single species) genus, or two species if you consider the Asian Phyrma a separate species (Phryma oblongifolia.) The respected authority Weakley subscribes to the two-species definition based on results of a 2006 analysis by Nie, et al, although most publications list the Asian plant as a variety or subspecies of Phryma leptostachya. I don't know if this is because most authorities still consider Phyrma to be monotypic, or if it is simply because it takes time for the predominance of published works to be refreshed. Further, Phryma was the only genus in the Phrymaceae family for about 150 years (Schauer, 1847), although in the latter part of the 20th century most authorities placed Phyrma in Verbenaceae (Verbena family, Cronquist,1981), leaving Phrymaceae vacated. Now, based on work published in 2002 (Beardsley & Olmstead), Phrymaceae contains contains 11 genera with about 190 species, most in western North America; most moved from the Scrophulariaceae (Figwort) family. To further confuse the family relationships, later work (examples - Tank et al in 2006 and Barker et al in 2012) has suggested that Phrymaceae contains as many as 20 genera and 240 species.

However you classify it, Phryma leptostachya is found in the eastern two-thirds of the United States and Canada (Wikipedia description: "roughly, everywhere east of the Rocky Mountains"), plus in California, where it is a "garden waif" - not native, not naturalized, but surviving in gardens. It is Possibly Extirpated in Maine.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Lopseed, American Lopseed
LotusNelumbo lutea
(Native)
American Lotus, Water Lotus, Water Chinquapin, Yellow LotusNelumbonaceae - the Lotus-lily family - is monotypic - Nelumbo is the only genus in the family. There are two species of this aquatic plant, both found in the United States. Nelumbo nucifera - Sacred Lotus - is an introduced species, and has white or pink tepals, and has naturalized as a garden escapee in a number of states in the eastern half of the U.S., tending toward the southern part. Nelumbo lutea is native to the United States, and has a much wider distribution than its introduced cousin. It has pale yellow tepals, so pale in some cases that they appear to be white. The tepals fall off sooner on N. nucifera than they do on N. lutea.

The Lotus name is shared with another unrelated plant genus in the Fabaceae (Pea) family, which goes by the common name Trefoil (although there are plants commonly called Trefoil which are not in Lotus.) Bird's-foot Trefoil is probably the most commonly known species in Lotus.

Nelumbo lutea - American Lotus - is threatened or endangered in Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI
American Lotus, Water Lotus, Water Chinquapin, Yellow Lotus
LousewortPedicularis canadensis
(Native)
Wood Betony; Canadian Lousewort
Pedicularis - Lousewort - is a large genus of around 600 hemiparasitic species worldwide, primarily in the temperate to arctic regions of the northern hemisphere, but also found in South America. Nearly half of the species are endemic to China, but there are about 40 species found in North America. There is at least one species found in each of the United States except Hawaii. Pedicularis and several other genera were moved from Scrophulariaceae into Orobanchaceae by the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group in the early 21st century (APG II).

Canadian Lousewort is found throughout the eastern 2/3 of the United States and Canada, all the way down into northern Florida. It has long been considered as having medicinal properties.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Wood Betony; Canadian Lousewort
LousewortPedicularis centranthera
(Native)
Dwarf Lousewort, Spring Lousewort, Great Basin Lousewort, Wood Betony
Pedicularis - Lousewort - is a large genus of around 600 hemiparasitic species worldwide, primarily in the temperate to arctic regions of the northern hemisphere, but also found in South America. Nearly half of the species are endemic to China, but there are about 40 species found in North America. There is at least one species found in each of the United States except Hawaii. Pedicularis and several other genera were moved from Scrophulariaceae into Orobanchaceae by the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group in the early 21st century (APG II).

The Lousewort genus common name comes from the old perception that cattle and other livestock which browsed on the plants were more susceptible to lice infestation. This may have been true, but likely not due to lice having any affinity to the plant, but because the livestock would eat Pedicularis on when most other plants were eaten to the ground, so the animals had their muzzles on the soil attempting to find fodder.

Pedicularis centranthera is a plant primarily of the southwestern United States, usually found in sagebrush habitat at elevations above 4000'. It ranges as far north as southeastern Oregon, and is also found in a single county in the northeastern part of California. The photos on this page were made in southwestern Colorado at an elevation of about 6800'.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, NM, NV, OR, UT
Dwarf Lousewort, Spring Lousewort, Great Basin Lousewort, Wood Betony
LupineLupinus argenteus
(Native)
Silvery Lupine, Silver Stem Lupine
Lupinus (Lupine) is a large genus of over 200 species, mostly from western North and South America, but also found in temperate and tropical areas else of Mediterranean Europe and Africa. The genus name is from the Latin for wolf, so named in a belief that it was harmful to soils. There are a few species also found in the eastern United States; a couple native and a couple naturalized. The most distinctive feature common to the genus seems to be the palmately compound leaves with 5 to 11 leaflets which are usually much longer than they are narrow. The plants carry terminal inflorescences with flowers classically pea-like. The plants in this genus - especially the seeds - are toxic, and can be harmful or even fatal if ingested.

Lupinus argenteus is perhaps the most widely distributed Lupine species of the western North America, found in most states from the eastern approach to the Rocky Mountains through the mountains in the western coastal states and southwestern Canada. It is a striking addition to a variety of open and wooded valley and mountain habitats. There are a several recognized subspecies.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, KS, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY
Silvery Lupine, Silver Stem Lupine
Maidenhair FernAdiantum pedatum
(Native)
Northern Maidenhair, Five-Fingered Maidenhair FernWhile not a flowering plant, the beauty of Maidenhair Fern warrants a place on this website. There are 28 species of Adiantum - Maidenhair Fern - in the United States (200 worldwide,) but only 3 with wide distribution - A. aleucitum - a western species (sometimes classified as a subspecies of A. pedatum), A. Adiantum capillus-veneris - found mostly in the southern part of the United States, and this species, A. pedatum - Northern Maidenhair Fern, which is found in most of the eastern 2/3 of the country.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Northern Maidenhair, Five-Fingered Maidenhair Fern
MapleAcer rubrum
(Native)
Red Maple, Swamp Maple, Soft MapleThere are 129 species in the Acer genus, but less than 20 are native to North America. Red Maple is found in 33 states across the eastern half of the United States. This tree can get to be 60 feet tall, and has beautiful red flowers in late winter or early spring, and beautiful yellow, red, or red & yellow leaves in the fall.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Red Maple, Swamp Maple, Soft Maple
Mariposa LilyCalochortus bruneaunis
(Native)
Bruneau Mariposa Lily, Pinyon Mariposa(I had previously identified this as Calochortus eurycarpus, White Mariposa Lily. Upon further research I have decided it is Calochortus bruneaunis, Bruneau Mariposa Lily.)

Bruneau Mariposa Lily has a striking flower with 3 showy petals and 3 white sepals which are shorter than the petals. The flower is atop a 12 to 18 inch stem. The leaves are basal, linear, and usually wither by the time the plant blooms.
Bruneau Mariposa Lily, Pinyon Mariposa
MayapplePodophyllum peltatum
(Native)
Mayapple Mayapple Mayapple
MayflowerMaianthemum racemosum
(Native)
False Solomon's Seal, Feathery False Lily of the Valley, Solomon's PlumeSmilacina racemosa is a synonym of Maianthemum racemosum (L.) Link ssp. racemosum (eastern variety), according to USDA Plants Database, which also lists 'Feathery False Lily of the Valley' as the common name. I think the False Solomons Seal name is more appropriate due to the similarity of the plant to Solomon's Seal, and I also think it is in more common use, at least in the Southeastern U.S.

The members of the Smilacina genus were reclassified into the genus Maianthemum in the late 20th century, based on work by LaFrankie, published in 1986. There is some evidence that there has been some effort to move Maianthemum from the Lily family into the Butcher's Broom family, but it appears that has not been widely accepted.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
False Solomon's Seal, Feathery False Lily of the Valley, Solomon's Plume
MayflowerMaianthemum stellatum
(Native)
Starry False Solomon's Seal, Starry False Lily of the Valley, Starflower False Solomon's Seal Star-flowered Solomon's PlumeMaianthemum stellatum is officially listed as Endangered or otherwise protected in Arizona, Kentucky, Maryland, and Tennessee. It is found throughout the United States except in the Southeast and in Hawaii, being based in Georgia I had never seen it before a spring visit to Idaho. The most widespread of the five U.S. Maianthemum species (there are 30 worldwide) is M. racemosum, which is found in every state except Hawaii. Some authorities place this plant (along with 3 other Maianthemum) in the Smilacina genus.

Found in:
AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Starry False Solomon's Seal, Starry False Lily of the Valley, Starflower False Solomon's Seal Star-flowered Solomon's Plume
MayweedAnthemis cotula
(Introduced)
Mayweed, Stinking Chamomile, Dog FennelAnthemis cotula is an introduced species which is now found in every state in the United States in in most of Canada. It can be invasive, and is officially listed as a noxious weed in Colorado and Nevada.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Mayweed, Stinking Chamomile, Dog Fennel
MayweedMatricaria discoidea
(Introduced)
Pineapple Weed, Wild Chamomile, Rayless Chamomile, Disc MayweedDon't be fooled by the USDA Plants Database map to the right which shows Matricaria discoidea as an introduced plant throughout its range the United States and Canada. That's because the USDA uses a single classification for the lower 48 states, and in true democratic fashion, the majority has won. This plant is native to the northwestern states (as well as parts of Asia) but after the opening of the west (and discovery of the species) by the Lewis and Clark expedition, has spread outward from those states, and is now found in almost every state in the United States as well as much of Canada.

The plant gets its Pineapple Weed common name comes from the strong scent when crushed, reminiscent of Pineapple. It is reported to be an acceptable plant for making chamomile tea, although another species in the genus, Matricaria chamomilla, is the most commonly used plant for chamomile tea.

Found in:
AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Pineapple Weed, Wild Chamomile, Rayless Chamomile, Disc Mayweed
MazusMazus pumilus
(Introduced)
Japanese MazusThe Mazus genus probably has been feeling like an unwanted 19th century orphan lately, being bounced around from family to family. Originally placed in Scrophulariaceae, a 2002 study by Beardsley and Olmstead placed Mazus, Lancea, and Mimulus in the long-neglected Phrymaceae family. Hardly having time to get comfortable there, publications in 2009 (D. C. Albach et al.) and in 2011 (J. L. Reveal) resulted in the circumscription of a new family - Mazaceae, when Mazus and Lancea were shorn of their close relationship with Mimulus (and others) and place as the only two genera in that new family. Since, as of January 2014 the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS) has yet to accept this new classification and still has Mazus in Phrymaceae (USDA Plants Database continues to list it in Scrophulariaceae) and I usually follow ITIS in these family squabbles, I am placing Mazus pumilus in Phrymaceae until it's had time to settle into Mazaceae.

Mazus pumilus (syn. Mazus japonicus,) an annual, is one of about 30 species in the genus, but one of only two found in North America. It and Mazus miquelii (Creeping Mazus,) a perennial, are both introduced species, and both are natives of eastern Asia. Mazus miquelii has a slightly larger flower, and is prone, whereas Mazus pumilus is an upright plant. M. miquelii also has a much smaller distribution in the United States, being found in only 8 states, while M. pumilus is found throughout much of the eastern United States as well as in the Pacific coast states, a total of 29 states. They are both found in lawns and other man-disturbed habitats.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI, WV
Japanese Mazus
Meadow BeautyRhexia mariana
(Native)
Maryland Meadow Beauty, Pale Meadow BeautyRhexia is a small genus of about 13 species, all of them in North America, and is the only genus in the Melastome family found on the continent outside of south Florida. A family primarily of tropical plants, most species are found in Central and South America. Rhexia is mostly a genus of the southeastern United States, not found west of Texas to Wisconsin, with only two species found north of Virginia. The species presented here, Rhexia mariana, is one of those two, ranging as far north as Michigan and New York. The other is Rhexia virginica, which ranges even further northward, found in New England and parts of eastern Canada. There are at least two varieties of Rhexia mariana - var. mariana and var. exalbida. The latter is usually white and has linear leaves.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV, GS
Maryland Meadow Beauty, Pale Meadow Beauty
Meadow ParsnipThaspium barbinode
(Native)
Hairyjoint Meadow ParsnipHairy Meadow Parsnip. Named from stiff hairs at the stem branches on most plants.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Hairyjoint Meadow Parsnip
Meadow ParsnipThaspium trifoliatum
(Native)
Smooth Meadow Parsnip, Woodland Meadow Parsnip, Yellow Meadow Parsnip, Purple Meadow ParsnipThaspium - Meadow Parsnip - is a small genus with only 3 or 4 species, all found only in eastern and central North America. Meadow Parsnips are very similar to plants in the Zizia genus. The yellow variety of Thaspium trifoliatum - the plant presented here - is very difficult to distinguish from Zizia aurea, Golden Alexanders. Since seeds and basal leaves are generally not available during flowering, the primary means of differentiating between those two species is that the central flower of each umbellet in Zizia aurea is sessile, while all flowers in the inflorescence of Thaspium trifoliatum are pedicellate. Because of the similarity, the common name Golden Alexanders is often (incorrectly?) applied to the yellow variety of Thaspium trifoliatum.

Thaspium trifoliatum has two varieties - var. trifoliatum, which has dark maroon flowers, and aureum, which has golden yellow flowers,although some authorities use different characteristics to differentiate between varieties and allow var. aureum to have maroon petals. Both varities are found in the southeastern United States, with var. trifoliatum (the maroon variety) extendings its range further westward in the south to Texas, and further northward into Minnesota, and Ontario, Canada on the western edge, and into New York in the eastern end of its range. Some authorities classify the yellow variety of this plant as Thaspium trifoliatum var. flavum rather than var. areum, but ITIS and most other authorities do not accept var. flavum.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Smooth Meadow Parsnip, Woodland Meadow Parsnip, Yellow Meadow Parsnip, Purple Meadow Parsnip
Meadow-rueThalictrum thalictroides
(Native)
Rue Anemone, Anemone Meadow-rueLow-growing spring wildflower of the eastern United States; less than a foot tall. Blossoms are pink to pure white with distinctively-shape pistils.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Rue Anemone, Anemone Meadow-rue
Meadow-rueThalictrum occidentale
(Native)
Western Meadow-rue, Western Meadowrue, Meadow RueThalictrum occidentale is a western species of Meadow Rue, and is found at elevations up to about 10,000 feet.

There is much disagreement over the classification of the species within the Thalictrum genus, as well as difficulty differentiating between some of the species. The plant represented here might be Thalictrum venulosum rather than Thalictrum occidentale - it is difficult to tell without inspecting the seed pods. Some authorities consider Thalictrum confine to be a variety of Thalictrum venulosum, while most currently classify them as separate species.

Found in:
AK, CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, WA, WY
Western Meadow-rue, Western Meadowrue, Meadow Rue
Meadow-rueThalictrum revolutum
(Native)
Skunk Meadow Rue, Waxyleaf Meadowrue, Purple Meadow-rueA wind pollinated, dioecious plant of late spring to mid-summer. As with all Thalictrum species, T. revolutum does not have petals, but rather inconspicuous sepals. It gets its Skunk Meadow Rue common name from the odor of the crushed vegetation. This plant is found in a large swath of the United States except for a number of states in the northwestern quadrant. It is also found in much of eastern Canada. It is Endangered in Iowa and "Historical" in Rhode Island.

The common name "Purple Meadow-rue" is also shared with Thalictrum dasycarpum, or perhaps that Rhode Island listing is a result of a mistaken identification, since there is some confusion among the species in the genus.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Skunk Meadow Rue, Waxyleaf Meadowrue, Purple Meadow-rue
MelothriaMelothria pendula
(Native)
Creeping Cucumber, Guadeloupe Cucumber, Squirting CucumberWhile there are about 12 worldwide, there is only 1 species in the Melothria genus in the United States - Melothria pendula. The Cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae) is primarily a family of tropical and subtropical species. Melothria pendula is one of the rare temperate ones, growing in the eastern half of the United States as far north as Illinois, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. It is Threatened in Illinois, Endangered in Maryland, and believed Extirpated in Indiana.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA
Creeping Cucumber, Guadeloupe Cucumber, Squirting Cucumber
Mexican CloverRichardia grandiflora
(Introduced)
Largeflower Mexican Clover, Largeflower Pusley, Florida SnowRichardia is a small genus of plants native to the tropical and sub-tropical areas of the American continents. Richardia grandiflora is related to the Buttonweeds (Diodia) and the Bluets (Houstonia) (not clover), but another, smaller-flowered species in the genus, Richardia scabra, is the only Richardia species that is native to the United States. Richardia grandiflora is a South American (not Mexican) native that is a relative newcomer to the United States, found only in Florida - primarily south and central Florida - and is rapidly spreading in that state. Richardia grandiflora is a low-growing ground cover so it is little impacted by mowing. It is drought-hardy and fairly freeze-hardy - it reportedly can survive in temperatures down to 10 degrees F. It spreads vegetatively as well as via the many small seeds the flowers produce, and is reported to be little impacted by several common herbicides. It can justifiably be considered to be an invasive species.

Found in:
FL
Largeflower Mexican Clover, Largeflower Pusley, Florida Snow
MilkvetchAstragalus canadensis
(Native)
Canada Milkvetch, Little RattlepodThe Astragalus - Milkvetch - genus is huge with over 2300 species worldwide and more than 400 species in the United States. I have photographed a couple of Milkvetches in Idaho, but with over 60 candidate species in Idaho, identification to the species was intimidating. I had almost decided just to publish a genus page rather than a species page when I heard about the general location of the plant presented on this page. Since there are only three Astragalus species known in Georgia, and two of those are in the coastal plains, confirming the identity of this one by location - there is only one location in Georgia where has been found - and using other attributes only for confirmation became rather easy. Astragalus canadensis is one of the more widespread species of Milkvetch, being found in open woods and riverbanks throughout most of the United States except New England, Florida, and Arizona. It is also found in most of its namesake country, Canada.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Canada Milkvetch, Little Rattlepod
MilkvetchAstragalus schmolliae
(Native)
Schmoll's Milkvetch
The Astragalus - Milkvetch - genus is huge with over 2300 species worldwide and more than 400 species in the United States, making idenfication to a species somewhat difficult (nearly impossible for me.) Fortunately I found a park ranger at Mesa Verde National Park who was able to narrow the number of possibilities down to only a few, and with some research I was able to determine that this is the rare Schmoll's Milkvetch. Astragalus schmolliae is found only on Chapin Mesa and a few adjacent areas in southwestern Colorado, most of which lies within the Mesa Verde National Park, with the remainder in the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park. The plant was blooming abundantly on that mesa, but the identification was confirmed because I noted that as I left Chapin Mesa headed northward in my car, the plant was no longer observed along the roadsides. With the limited distribution of this plant, it is a candidate for protection as an endangered species. An inventory of the plant within Mesa Verde National Park in 2001 showed a population of over 450,000 plants, while one in 2004 resulted in a count of less than 300,000 plants. It is unusual in that even though there are nearby areas with similar habitat, the plant does not exist in those areas. The reason for this is unknown.

The following description is taken from the Federal Wildlife Service a Petition To List Astragalus microcymbus and Astragalus schmolliae as Endangered or Threatened:
"Astragalus schmolliae was first collected in Montezuma County, southwestern Colorado, in 1890. It was formally described as a species in 1945, when C.L. Porter named it after Dr. Hazel Marguerite Schmoll (Porter 1945, pp. 100-102; Barneby 1964, pp. 277-278; Isely 1998, p. 417). Astragalus schmolliae is a member of the family Fabaceae (legume family). The perennial plants are upright, 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 in.) tall with one to several stems branching from an underground root crown. Its leaves are typical of many of the legumes, with 11 to 20 small leaflets on a stem. Leaves and stems are ashcolored due to a covering of short hairs. Flowers are creamy white and borne on upright stalks that extend above the leafy stems. The fruit is a pod, 3 to 4 cm (1 to 1.5 in.) long, covered with flat, stiff hairs, pendulous and curving downward (Barneby 1964, pp. 277-278). The deep taproot grows to 40 cm (16 in.) or more (Friedlander 1980, pp. 59-62)."
Note that most other authoritative descriptions of the plant describe a red lower and green upper stem with some hairs, rather than the ash-color of the leaves which have denser appressed hairs.

Found in:
CO
Schmoll's Milkvetch
Milkweed Asclepias quadrifolia
(Native)
Fourleaf MilkweedFourleaf Milkweed Fourleaf Milkweed
MilkweedAsclepias verticillata
(Native)
Whorled MilkweedAsclepias verticillata has the typical milkweed blossom shape, but has very narrow leaves in whorls of 3 to 6 up the stem. The plant is normally erect; this specimen was hanging horizontally over a road bank. Whorled Milkweed
MilkweedAsclepias tuberosa
(Native)
Butterfly Milkweed, Butterfly Weed, Pleurisy Root, Orange MilkweedBeautiful milkweed with blossoms ranging from red thru orange to yellow. It is threatened/endangered in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Butterfly Milkweed, Butterfly Weed, Pleurisy Root, Orange Milkweed
MilkweedAsclepias variegata
(Native)
White Milkweed, Redring Milkweed, Variegated MilkweedWhite Milkweed is a native plant found in much of the eastern half of the United States outside of New England. It is listed as endangered in Connecticut, New York, and PennsylvaniaWhite Milkweed, Redring Milkweed, Variegated Milkweed
MilkweedAsclepias syriaca
(Native)
Common Milkweed, SilkweedThis native milkweed is found in 38 of our 50 states and in much of Canada. It is listed in several weedy or invasive lists, so consider the impact on your area before propagation. In my opinion, it should be allowed to grow unles there is an overriding reason to destroy a plant's population, since milkweed is an important part of the ecosystem, providing food and habitat for many insects.

The milky white, sticky sap is reported to be toxic, but with appropriate preparation, several parts of the plant are reported to be edible, according to Wildflowers Of Tennessee, The Ohio Valley and the Southern Appalachians .
Common Milkweed, Silkweed
MilkweedAsclepias viridis
(Native)
Antelope-Horn Milkweed, Green Antelopehorn, Spider Milkweed, Green MilkweedAsclepias, Milkweed, is a large genus, with around 100 species total, and over 75 in the United States. There is at least one species in every state except for Alaska. Milkweed is important if for no other reason than the fact that the Monarch butterfly only lays its eggs on Milkweed plants, and the Monarch caterpillar only eats the leaves of the Milkweed plant.

Asclepias viridis is a fairly widespread species, being found in prairies, fields, and other dry open places in eighteen states from Ohio and West Virginia south to Florida and west to Texas and Nebraska. The common name refers to the horn-like appearance of the seedpod; unlike most Milkweeds, the flowers of Antelope-Horn Milkweed do not have horns. The white crab spider lives on the plant, giving it another of its common names.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MO, MS, NE, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, WV
Antelope-Horn Milkweed, Green Antelopehorn, Spider Milkweed, Green Milkweed
MilkweedAsclepias incarnata
(Native)
Swamp Milkweed, Western Swamp Milkweed, Pink Milkweed, Eastern Swamp MilkweedAsclepias (Milkweed) is a large genus, with around 100 species total, and over 75 in the United States. There is at least one species in every state except for Alaska. Milkweed is important if for no other reason than the fact that the Monarch butterfly only lays its eggs on Milkweed plants, and the Monarch caterpillar only eats the leaves of the Milkweed plant. The genus was named for the Greek god of medicine, Aesculapius.

Asclepias incarnata is one of the more widely distributed species of Milkweed, being found in all but six states. It is rare in Nevada, Montana, Arkansas, and Louisiana. It is not found in Alaska, Hawaii, the west coast states of Washington, Oregon, and California, and is also missing from Mississippi. Note that the USDA Plants Database map shows it missing from Arizona, but the BONAP map, which is usually more current, shows it in that state. It is found in swamps and marshes and other usually wet areas, explaining its rarity in states that are largely desert. There are two recognized varieties (or subspecies) of A. incarnata - var. incarnata - Western Swamp Milkweed - and var. pulchra - Eastern Swamp Milkweed. Var. incarnata is by far the more widely distributed variety. Var. pulchra is hairier, has broader leaves, and the leaf bases are more rounded or even nearly cordate. It also is less branching than var. incarnata, and its distribution is, as implied by that common name, more eastern.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Swamp Milkweed, Western Swamp Milkweed, Pink Milkweed, Eastern Swamp Milkweed
Milkwort, PolygalaPolygala nuttallii
(Native)
Nuttall's MilkwortPolygala - Milkwort - is a very large genus with somewhere between 300 and 500 species worldwide. Recent reclassification probably leaves it closer to the lower end of that number than the high end, but still 300 to 400 species makes for a large genus. 40 - 60 species are found in North America. While more of those are in the eastern half of the continent than in the west, there is at least one species found in all but 2 to 4 states - missing from Alaska and Idaho; it's presence in Washington and Nevada is apparently disputed.

Polygala nuttallii - Nuttall's Milkwort - is a species of primarily the Piedmont and coastal plains of the east from Mississippi north to New York and Massachusetts. However, there are also disjunct populations in Tennessee, and historic records of its presence in Kentucky, although it is apparently extirpated in that state. There are reports of its presence in Arkansas which need confirmation. The specimens on this page were photographed in Tennessee, where it is classified as state ranked E (Endangered) and S1 (Critically Imperiled).

Nuttall's Milkwort is very similar in appearance and range to Curtiss' Milkwort (Polygala curtissii) with the latter being a somewhat larger plant, with a larger inflorescence, pedicels, and wings. The plants presented here were in the larger end of the range for Nuttall's - which would put them in the smaller end for Curtiss' - and both species are found in Coffee County, TN, where these photographs were taken. However, Curtiss' is a plant of drier, mafic barrens and rocky outcrops, while Nuttall's habitat is, according to Weakley's Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States, moister, being found in pocosins (a type of wetland), depression ponds, and pine savannas. The location of the plants presented here, May Prairie, is decidedly a moister environment.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DE, FL, GA, KY, MA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, NY, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA
Nuttall's Milkwort
Milkwort, PolygalaPolygala cruciata
(Native)
Drumheads, Crossleaf Milkwort, Candy RootPolygala - Milkwort - is a very large genus with somewhere between 300 and 500 species worldwide. Recent reclassification probably leaves it closer to the lower end of that number than the high end, but still 300 to 400 species makes for a large genus. 40 - 60 species are found in North America. While more of those are in the eastern half of the continent than in the west, there is at least one species found in all but 2 to 4 states - missing from Alaska and Idaho; it's presence in Washington and Nevada is apparently disputed.

Polygala cruciata - Drumheads - is a species which requires moist soil and is therefore more prevalent in the coastal plains of the eastern half of the United States and Canada, but it is found in bogs and wet savannahs well into the interior. It is found in every state east of the Mississippi except for Vermont, and in a scattering of states west of that great river as well - to eastern Texas and Oklahoma. While it is fairly common in much of its range, it is protected in at least 9 states.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Drumheads, Crossleaf Milkwort, Candy Root
Milkwort, PolygalaPolygala lutea
(Native)
Orange Milkwort, Red-hot-poker, Candy Weed, Yellow Milkwort
Polygala - Milkwort - is a very large genus with somewhere between 300 and 500 species worldwide. Recent reclassification probably leaves it closer to the lower end of that number than the high end, but still 300 to 400 species makes for a large genus. 40 - 60 species are found in North America. While more of those are in the eastern half of the continent than in the west, there is at least one species found in all but 2 to 4 states - missing from Alaska and Idaho; its presence in Washington and Nevada is apparently disputed.

Polygala lutea is a plant primarily of the coastal plains of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern United States, extend somewhat into the Piedmont regions of these states. It grows in wet sandy or boggy areas of savannahs, pine barrens, and roadsides. The plants here were photographed along a backroad in a pine farm of northeastern Florida, and along a nearby state highway. Synonym: Pylostachya lutea

Found in:
AL, DE, FL, GA, LA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, NY, PA, SC, VA
Orange Milkwort, Red-hot-poker, Candy Weed, Yellow Milkwort
MimosaAlbizia julibrissin
(Introduced)
Silk Tree, MimosaMimosa tree, backyard Walker County GA 06/03/2004Silk Tree, Mimosa
MimosaMimosa microphylla
(Native)
Sensitive Briar, Littleleaf Sensitive-briarThumbnail size flower. Allan Ihrer has suggested that this might be M. nuttallii. USDA, however, does not list that species in Tennessee. I originally identified this as M. quadrivalvis, which is listed both as a synonym of M. nuttallii and M. microphylla, and subsequent investigation indicates M. microphylla is likely the correct identification.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, IL, KS, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA
Sensitive Briar, Littleleaf Sensitive-briar
MistflowerConoclinium coelestinum
(Native)
Blue Mistflower, Wild Ageratum, MistflowerBranching Aster 1' to 3' tall with opposite, almost triangle-shaped toothed leaves. Blue disk flowers but no ray flowers.

Synonym Eupatorium coelestinum.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Blue Mistflower, Wild Ageratum, Mistflower
MiterwortMitella diphylla
(Native)
Miterwort, Bishop's CapThe Pocket at Pigeon Mountain, Walker County, GAMiterwort, Bishop's Cap
MiterwortMitella stauropetala
(Native)
Smallflower Miterwort, Side-flowered miterwortSmallflower Miterwort is found in 7 northwestern states (CO, ID, MT, OR, UT, WA, WY.) It has basal leaves with unique white blossoms in a raceme thinly populating one side of a stalk that may rise to 30 inches high.Smallflower Miterwort, Side-flowered miterwort
Mock OrangePhiladelphus lewisii
(Native)
Lewis' Mock Orange, Indian Arrowwood, Syringa, California Mock OrangeSyringa (Lewis' Mock Orange) is one of 37 species in the Philadelphus - Mock Orange - genus in the U.S. While it is not a true Syringa (the genus name for lilacs,) that name is the one most commonly used name for the plant in Idaho, where it is the state flower. It is a bushy deciduous shrub that can grow more 10 feet high, and is covered with blossoms in spring.

Found in:
CA, ID, MT, OR, WA
Lewis' Mock Orange, Indian Arrowwood, Syringa, California Mock Orange
Mock VervainGlandularia canadensis
(Native)
Rose Vervain, Rose Mock Vervain, Rose Verbena, Sweet William, Clump VerbenaGlandularia is a genus of around 100 species of the Western Hemisphere, with around 20 found in the United States, about 15 or so of those species being native (the genus is still developing as further study of the Verbeneae tribe Verbenaceae is done.) Most of those species are found west of the Mississippi River, centered primarily around Texas and New Mexico. Glandularia is closely related to Verbena, with the most reliable diagnostic between the species now being the length of the styles relative to the length of the ovary, with Glandularia being longer. With the longer styles, the corolla of Glandularia is more likely be be salverform (corolla tube narrow from the base and then abruptly flaring into a mostly flattened array of corolla lobes) whereas that of Verbena, with the shorter styles, is funnelform (corolla gradually widening from the base in a funnel shape.)

Glandularia canadensis was classified as Verbena canadensis until recent rework in Verbenaceae placed it into Glandularia. It is the most widely distributed member of the genus in the United States, being found in most states east of the Rockies, although it is introduced rather than native in much of its more northern area of distribution. I find the species epithet interesting since it is not found in Canada. Glandularia bipinnatifida is the next most widely distributed species, with much range overlap with Glandularia canadensis.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Rose Vervain, Rose Mock Vervain, Rose Verbena, Sweet William, Clump Verbena
MonkeyflowerMimulus guttatus
(Native)
Yellow Monkeyflower, Common Monkeyflower, Seep MonkeyflowerAccording to the USDA Plants Database, there are 18 subspecies or varieties of Mimulus guttatus, a highly variable plant. This can make it difficult to distinguish from some of the other species, but I'm fairly confident of this identification. It is found throughout much of the western half of the United States, along with a few disjunct populations back east. It grows along streams and in wet areas, even seasonally wet, which gives it the common name "Seep Monkeyflower."

A 2012 study has resulted in a noew generally accepted reclassification, with over 100 members of Mimulus being now classified in the genus Erythranthe, and several other species moving into a few other genera. Mimulus guttatus is now classified as Erythranthe guttatus.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, ID, MI, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, NY, OR, PA, SD, UT, WA, WY
Yellow Monkeyflower, Common Monkeyflower, Seep Monkeyflower
MonkeyflowerMimulus nanus
(Native)
Dwarf Purple Mimulus, Dwarf Purple Monkeyflower
Formerly considered monotypic (single species in the family,) in current classifications Phrymaceae is a small plant family with under 200 species (compare to Asteraceae with over 22,000.) Within the past 10 years, based on research by Beardsley & Olmstead (2002), Mimulus and several other genera were placed in Phrymaceae.

Similar species - Mimulus lewisii is much taller and more leafy, with a more elongated corolla tube.

A 2012 study has resulted in a now generally accepted reclassification, with over 100 members of Mimulus being now classified in the genus Erythranthe, and several other species moving into a few other genera. Mimulus nanus is now classified as Diplacus nanus.

Found in:
CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, WA, WY
Dwarf Purple Mimulus, Dwarf Purple Monkeyflower
MonkeyflowerMimulus alatus
(Native)
Sharpwing Monkey Flower, Winged Monkeyflower
Phrymaceae was formerly considered monotypic - a single species in the family. However within the past 10 years, based on research by Beardsley & Olmstead (2002) recommending the dismantling of Scrophulariaceae, Mimulus and several other genera were placed in Phrymaceae, making it a small plant family with around 200 species (compare to Asteraceae with over 22,000.)

Until recently Mimulus was considered a large genus with around 150 species, including at least one found in every state in the U.S. except for Hawaii. However, a 2012 study resulted in a reclassification which now seems to have been generally accepted, and all but 7 of those species have been moved elsewhere (including others still listed in Mimulus on this website.) Most were moved into the Erythranthe genus.

Mimulus alatus is among those 7 species remaining in Mimulus, one of only two found in North America (A. ringens is the other), both of which are found only in the eastern half of the continent. All of the many western Monkeyflowers have been moved to other genera.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Sharpwing Monkey Flower, Winged Monkeyflower
Morning GloryCalystegia sepium
(Native)
Hedge Bindweed, Hedge False BindweedCommon morning glory found in ditches, fencelines, roadsides. White to pinkish blossom. Elongated arrowhead-shaped leaf.

Note that there are several subspecies of this plant found in the United States, one of which is non-native. I have not identified this to the subspecies, so there is a possibility that this is a non-native rather than native species. Regardless of native or non-native status, several states list Calystegia sepium as a noxious weed.

Hedge Bindweed, Hedge False Bindweed
Morning GloryIpomoea pandurata
(Native)
Wild Potato Vine, Man of the Earth, Wild Sweet Potato, Bigroot Morning GloryThis member of the morning glory family, like its cousin the sweet potato, has an edible root - but research it yourself before eating it, and don't eat it raw.Wild Potato Vine, Man of the Earth, Wild Sweet Potato, Bigroot Morning Glory
Morning GloryIpomoea coccinea
(Introduced)
Small Red Morning Glory, Redstar, Starflower, Scarlet MorninggloryTwining vine with cordate leaves to 3 inches and small red/scarlet flowers with a red-orange center to the blossom where the petals meet the corolla tube.

As with many species, there is some disagreement in classification. Floridata calls this a native to the eastern United States, while both the USDA and EFlora list it as an introduced species. In either case, it is listed as a noxious weed in Arizona and Arkansas. It is prohibited to cultivate it in Arizona.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Small Red Morning Glory, Redstar, Starflower, Scarlet Morningglory
Morning GloryIpomoea lacunosa
(Native)
Small White Morning Glory, Whitestar, Pitted MorninggloryThis pretty little white morning glory is found in most of the eastern half of the United States, west to Texas and Kansas; from Florida north to New York. All Ipomoea species, including Ipomoea lacunosa are prohibited as noxious weeds in Arizona and Arkansas (Ipomoea lacunosa isn't found in Arizona.) While Small White Morning Glory is a United States native plant, it is not native in its entire range. As expected for such a disjointed population, it is not native to California, where it is currently found in only one county.

The Morning Glory name is applied because these flowers, which can be especially glorious when large numbers are blooming, will close up later in the day as the bright sun shines on them. While most morning glories seem to close tightly, Ipomoea lacunosa just curls its lips - the corolla lobes.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Small White Morning Glory, Whitestar, Pitted Morningglory
Morning GloryIpomoea hederacea
(Introduced)
Ivyleaf Morning Glory, Entireleaf Morningglory, Small Morning Glory
Ipomoea is a large genus of well over 600 species worldwide, with over 60 in the United States. The Morning Glory name is applied to plants in the genus because these flowers, which can be especially glorious when large numbers are blooming, will close up or wither later in the day as the bright sun shines on them. There is an Ipomoea species found in every state except for Idaho and Alaska (but those two states have the very similar Calystegia or Convolvulus genera present.)

Whether or not Ipomoea hederacea is native to the United States is debated. Recent DNA studies did not resolve the debate, although patterns seem to imply that it has at least partially obtained its current distribution as agricultural activities spread, although some of that might have occurred prior to the beginning of historical botanical records in North America. It was recorded as being in eastern North America in 1805 by Michaux. While most of those who (like me) simply parrot what others are saying indicate that its origin is Central or South America, some authorities say that Ipomoea hederacea might have originated in the southeastern United States. (Since the majority seem to consider it non-native to the U.S., I have it thus listed here.) It is considered weedy in much of its range, covering the entire eastern United States except for Vermont and Rhode Island, and west to North Dakota down to Texas. It is also found in New Mexico, Arizona, and possibly California (The California report may be Ipomoea nil. (BONAP reports it in Vermont, and shows it as native to California.)

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Ivyleaf Morning Glory, Entireleaf Morningglory, Small Morning Glory
Morning GloryIpomoea alba
(Native)
Moonflower, Tropical White Morning Glory, Moon Vine, Evening GloryIpomoea is a large genus of well over 600 species worldwide, and over 60 in the United States. There is an Ipomoea species found in every state except for Idaho and Alaska (but those two states have members of the Convolvulaceae family present - the very similar genera Calystegia and Convolvulus.)

While the Morning Glory name is applied to most plants in the genus because their flowers, which can be especially glorious when large numbers are blooming, will close up or wither later in the day as the bright sun shines on them. However, that is not the case with Ipomoea alba - instead it opens later in the day and stays open on into the evening, yielding the common names Moonflower, Moon Vine, and Evening Glory.

Ipomoea alba is a tropical vine (a liana), being found mostly in Mexico, Central America and northern South America. Most authorities believe it to be native to Florida (and possibly Louisiana and Texas), but it is a non-native, naturalized plant in the few other states where it is found, probably because it is frequently used in gardens, as annuals in areas of the country not warm enough to allow it to survive as a perennial.

Synonym: Calonyction aculeatum

Found in:
AL, FL, HI, KS, LA, TX
Moonflower, Tropical White Morning Glory, Moon Vine, Evening Glory
Mother of MillionsBryophyllum delagoense
(Introduced)
Chandelier Plant, Common Mother of Millions, Mother of Thousands, Christmas bells, Tingo TangoBryophyllum is a genus of about 30 species of Madagascar and some of the other islands relatively nearby in the Indian Ocean. Bryophyllum was first described as a genus in 1805. In 1907 the French botanist Raymond Hamet made a case for integrating it within Kalanchoe, which itself was published in 1763. Since then some botanists treat it within Kalanchoe, while others maintain it as a separate genus. While the momentum currently seems to be toward integrating into Kalanchoe, partly because there are several species which have characteristics that could fit into either genus, Flora of North America and Weakley's Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States both treat Bryophyllum as a separate genus, so I will follow their lead.

While there are no Bryophyllum native to North America, there are about 6 or 7 which have naturalized here, likely brought in as ornamentals. While they are invasive, they are restricted to tropical climates so have not spread far north, with Florida hosting all of them, and several found in a handful of other southern-tier states as well as Hawaii. Bryophyllum delagoense is the most widely distributed species in Florida, and is also found in Alabama, Texas, and Hawaii. There is a possibility that the species on this page is actually the hybrid Bryophyllum X houghtonii (Kalanchoe X houghtonii), based on a report from the park naturalist where this was photographed, but it appears to me to be closer to Bryophyllum delagoense in the shape of the leaves than the photographs I can find online for Kalanchoe X houghtonii. This plant is poisonous to livestock and humans and has significant adverse economic impact in some parts of the world, such as Africa and Australia. Some positive economic impact comes from its value as an ornamental, but if you live in a tropical or semi-tropical area, consider the possibility that this plant may be difficult to control before you use it as an outdoor ornamental.
Synonyms: Kalanchoe delagoensis, Bryophyllum tubiflorum, Kalanchoe tubiflora

Found in:
AL, FL, HI, TX
Chandelier Plant, Common Mother of Millions, Mother of Thousands, Christmas bells, Tingo Tango
Mountain MintPycnanthemum incanum
(Native)
Hoary Mountain MintUpper leaves have whitish tops. Dense flower clusters have coarse hairs making the cluster seem to be matted. Whitish flowers with purple spots. Crushed leaves have a very strong mint aroma.Hoary Mountain Mint
Mule EarsWyethia helianthoides
(Native)
White Mule's Ears, White Wyethia, White-rayed WyethiaThe plants of the Wyethia (Mule-ears) genus is found in the western part of the United States. There are 10 classified species, of which two are hybrids. Only three of these are found in Idaho, where these photos are taken. Two of the pure species, Wyethia amplexicaulis and this one, W. Helianthoides, hybridize to form the third classified species found in Idaho, W. Xcusickii.

While White Mule's Ears is a relatively low-growing plant, usually less than 24 inches tall, with the long leaves for which the genus gets its common name being up to 16 inches long.
White Mule's Ears, White Wyethia, White-rayed Wyethia
MulleinVerbascum thapsus
(Introduced)
Common Mullein, Great Mullein, Cowboy Toilet Paper, Flannel-plant
Tall plant with woolly leaves diminishing in size as they alternately rise up the sturdy stem-stalk, which is terminated by a tight cluster of showy yellow flowers. Only a few flowers will bloom at a time. The stem is usually unbranched until the inflorescence.

Verbascum thapsus is a biennial, living two years. The first year it will appear as a basal rosette of the soft, fuzzy leaves. The second year the flowering stalk will rise up to 6 or more feet tall.

Verbascum thapsus is classified as invasive or an obnoxious weed in several states. It was introduced from Europe in the 1700s.


Found in:
AL, AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, GS
Common Mullein, Great Mullein, Cowboy Toilet Paper, Flannel-plant
MulleinVerbascum blattaria
(Introduced)
Moth MulleinAnother mullein with showy yellow (or white) flowers that you'll frequently see along roadsides throughout most of the United States.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Moth Mullein
Mullein FoxgloveDasistoma macrophylla
(Native)
Mullein Foxglove, Mullein SeymeriaThis is the only species in the Dasistoma genus. It is hemiparasitic - it will attach its roots to the roots of an oak tree and suck moisture and possibly nutrients from the oak. The common name comes from the similarity of the blossom to Mullein and to False Foxglove. The Mullein similarity is what started me looking in the Figwort family for the identification of the plant after I photographed it in Walker County, Georgia. That is the only county in Georgia where the USDA Plants Database has it ilisted. It has a fairly broad distribution, being found in 22 states. It is officially listed as Threatened in Michigan, and of Special Concern in Georgia and Wisconsin.

Synonym: Seymeria macrophylla

Update 07/22/2012: This is another of the species which has been moved from Scrophulariaceae - the Figwort family - into Orobanchaceae - the Broom-rape family. All parasitic members of Scrophulariaceae have been so moved.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MI, MO, MS, NE, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Mullein Foxglove, Mullein Seymeria
NightshadeSolanum carolinense
(Native)
Carolina Horse Nettle, Bull Nettle, Devil's TomatoNot a true nettle, this is a member of the nightshade genus which includes the garden tomato. The Solanaceae family includes the Irish potato. In spite of the edible cousins, do not eat any part of this plant; as with most nightshades it is highly poisonous.

In spite of being a native plant, the deep-rooted and persistent Solanum carolinense is listed as a noxious weed in 7 of the 44 states where it is found.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Carolina Horse Nettle, Bull Nettle, Devil's Tomato
NightshadeSolanum dulcamara
(Introduced)
Climbing Nightshade, Bittersweet Nightshade, Woody Nightshade, European Bittersweet, Fellenwort, Blue NightshadeIntroduced from Europe, this plant is now found in much of the United States. It is a member of the Solanaceae family, which contains many edible plants, such as the potato, the tomato, and some peppers, but also includes some quite poisonous plants such as Belladonna (Atropa belladonna.) The Solanum genus itself (the Nightshades) contains potato and tomato, and some parts most plants in the genus (the potato included) are poisonous at different times in their life-cycle. The leaves and unripened berries of Solanum dulcamara are said to be somewhat poisonous, although the bright red, ripened berry is reported to be edible in small quantities - but don't eat any part of this plant based on my say-so!

Found in:
CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Climbing Nightshade, Bittersweet Nightshade, Woody Nightshade, European Bittersweet, Fellenwort, Blue Nightshade
NoddingcapsTriphora trianthophoros
(Native)
Three Bird Orchid, Threebirds, Nodding Pogonia, Nodding Ettercap
Triphora is a small genus of about 10 to 25 orchid species found in the Americas and West Indies. Of these, 5 are found in the United States (2 more in U.S. territory Puerto Rico). Of the mainland species, 4 are found only in Florida.

Triphora trianthophoros is widely scattered across the eastern United States and is found in Ontario Canada, in Mexico, and in Central America. While the distribution is wide, it is classified as rare or threatened in most states where it is found and is protected in 13 states. There are two subspecies of Triphora trianthophoros - ssp. trianthophoros, and ssp. mexicana. Only ssp. trianthophoros is found north of Mexico.

Triphora trianthophoros is rarely seen even in the states where it is not classified as rare due to the ephemeral nature of its blooming. As with many orchids it may go dormant for several years (there is one report of a possible dormancy for 125 years!) In years that it blooms it is usually in August or early September, with an entire population (which can be hundreds or thousands of plants) blooming at the same time. Each flower remains fresh for only a single day, so with a few flowers per plant the population will have flowers in bloom only for a few days. There are several folklore stories on how to know when it will bloom - 48 hours after 2 consecutive days of drops in the morning low temperatures after the first of August, and during the first week after the first drenching rain in August. However, depending on location, the plant may bloom as early as late July, or as late as mid-September. In any case, hurry when you hear a report that it is blooming; these photos were taken on the third day after the initial report of bloom, and relatively few plants were still blooming.

Many authorities (apparently incorrectly) use the name Triphora trianthophora for this plant.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Three Bird Orchid, Threebirds, Nodding Pogonia, Nodding Ettercap
OnionAllium canadense
(Native)
Wild Garlic, Meadow GarlicWalker County, GA 05/10/2009Wild Garlic, Meadow Garlic
OnionAllium simillimum
(Native)
Simil Onion, Dwarf OnionAllium simillimum is not a widely distributed plant, being found only in about half of Idaho and only in a few locations in Montana, Nevada, and Oregon. While the USDA Plants Database map only shows Simil Onion in Idaho and a couple of Montana counties, information from other sources gleaned from wildflowersearch.com indicates that it is also present in Oregon and Nevada. I observed only at elevations above 5,000 feet, and while most observations of Simil Onion have been between 4,000 and 10,000 feet, there have been a few observations at both higher and lower elevations.

Similar species:
  • Allium brandegeei - Brandegee's Onion, which has a longer stem and shorter leaves
  • Allium parvum - Small Onion, which has a flatter stems and leaves
  • Allium tomiei - Many-flowered Onion has much longer, more sharply pointed tepals.

Found in:
ID, MT, NV, OR
Simil Onion, Dwarf Onion
OnionAllium acuminatum
(Native)
Tapertip Onion, Hooker's OnionThis is one of the western species in the Allium genus, being found in the 11 westernmost of the lower 48 states. It grows in dry areas at moderate elevations, typically blooming in April thru July. These were photographed along the lower sections of the Kleinschmidt Grade in Idaho.



Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Tapertip Onion, Hooker's Onion
OnionAllium stellatum
(Native)
Glade Onion, Prairie Onion, Cliff Onion, Autumn Onion, Lady's Leek, Wild Onion
Note: 9/6/2013 - After seeing more specimens at the location where these photos were taken, and doing further research on Allium cernuum and Allium stellatum, I am not sure whether this is Allium cernuum or Allium stellatum. There is a bit of nod remaining in the umbel, but that is not a certain characteristic. The flowers seem more campanulate than stellate, implying cernuum. The bulb seems more ovate than elongate, implying stellatum. I'm leaning toward cernuum.

The USDA still lists Allium in the Liliaceae family, although some recent classification efforts have moved it into the Amaryllidaceae - Amaryllis - family. Since ITIS lists the genus in Amaryllidaceae, I have included the Allium species in that family here as well.

Glade Onion grows in thin soils over limestone; frequently found in cedar glades. It is also found in rocky prairie soils, and thus in some areas carries the common name Prairie Onion.

Allium stellatum is Endangered in Tennessee, and is not even listed by the USDA as being found in Georgia, although that is where these photographs were taken. The plant was shown to me by Jay Clark, at what is likely the easternmost extent of its range.

Similar Allium Species:
  • Allium canadense - Bulbils present in inflorescence.
  • Allium cernuum - Nodding inflorescence vs the upright inflorescence in A. stellatum.
  • Allium vineale - Bulbils form after or during anthesis. Leaves are round in cross-section.

Found in:
AR, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, MI, MN, MO, ND, OK, SD, TN, TX, WI, WY
Glade Onion, Prairie Onion, Cliff Onion,  Autumn Onion, Lady's Leek, Wild Onion
OnionAllium cernuum
(Native)
Nodding Wild Onion, Nodding Onion, Allegheny OnionAllium cernuum is a widely distributed onion, although it is uncommon in parts of its range. It is found from the east coast to the west coast in the United States, missing in 16 states. It is listed as Threatened in Iowa, Minnesota, and New York, but the entire Allium genus is listed as noxious weeds in Arkansas. Allium is a large genus of up to 700 species, nearly 100 in the United States.

The USDA still lists Allium in the Liliaceae family, although some recent classification efforts have moved it into the Amaryllidaceae - Amaryllis - family (and some into Alliaceae). Since ITIS lists the genus in Amaryllidaceae, I have included the Allium species in that family here as well. Some experts consider Allium allegheniense - Allegheny Onion - as a separate species, but ITIS and Flora of North America consider that to be a synonym of Allium cernuum.

All parts of the plant are edible - standard edibility disclaimer applies: DO NOT EAT A PLANT BASED ON INFORMATION ON THIS WEBSITE - I may be incorrect, or you may not have correctly identified the plant.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, DC, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV, WY

Note: Normally all photos I publish are taken in the field. On rare occasions they are taken at my home from a harvested plant. In the case of this plant, due to time constraints in the field most of these photos are from a harvested plant.
Nodding Wild Onion, Nodding Onion, Allegheny Onion
ParsleyErigenia bulbosa
(Native)
Harbinger-of-Spring, Pepper and Salt
Erigenia is monotypic - there is only a single species in the genus. Erigenia bulbosa is native to eastern North America. It has the common name "Harbinger of Spring" because it blooms quite early - February or March, usually before most other early spring native wildflowers. It is also known as Pepper and Salt due to contrast between dark anthers and white petals.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, WI, WV
Harbinger-of-Spring, Pepper and Salt
Partridge PeaChamaecrista fasciculata
(Native)
Partridge Pea, SleepingplantBright summer flower whose blossoms arise from the axils of the pinnately-compound leaves, which fold together when touched. Plant to 3 feet tall.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Partridge Pea, Sleepingplant
Partridge PeaChamaecrista nictitans
(Native)
Sensitive Partridge Pea, Wild Sensitive Plant, Sensitive PeaLow-growing pea with yellow flowers and pinnately-divided leaves. The leaves will sometime fold up when touched. There is a tiny gland on the petiole near the plant stem.

Chamaecrista nictitans is a highly variable species, with 2 subspecies, nictitans and patellaria. Only nictitans is found in the continental US, and that subspecies has 5 varieties. The variety presented here, nictitans, is the most widespread variety.
Sensitive Partridge Pea, Wild Sensitive Plant, Sensitive Pea
PartridgeberryMitchella repens
(Native)
Partridgeberry, Partridge Berry, Sqaw Vine, Eyeberry
Mitchella is a tiny genus of two species. One, Mitchella undulata, is a plant of forest understories in east Asia. The other one, which is presented here, is Mitchella repens, found in Central America and eastern North America. It is an evergreen; the red berries and green foliage of Partridgeberry form appealing mats that grace forest floors, even in winter. The creeping stems of the plant are the source of the species epithet "repens."

Mitchella repens is listed as Threatened in Iowa.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Partridgeberry, Partridge Berry, Sqaw Vine, Eyeberry
Passion FlowerPassiflora incarnata
(Native)
Purple Passionflower, MaypopAccording to unconfirmed information on Wikipedia, the Cherokees called this Ocoee and therefore the Ocoee River is named after this plant, which is the Tennessee State wildflower. Walker County, Ga - June 23, 2009Purple Passionflower, Maypop
PeaLathyrus latifolius
(Introduced)
Perennial Pea, Sweet Pea, Everlasting PeaVine to 6 feet long with winged stems, petioles, and peduncles which uses petiole-terminating tendrils to climb. One to several pink to magenta butterfly-like blossoms on smooth, unwinged pedicels.

This is a non-native species that can be weedy and invasive, as is indicated by its spread to almost every state in the United States. If you are looking to plant, there are better choices which are native to the United States, such as the Butterfly Pea.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Perennial Pea, Sweet Pea, Everlasting Pea
Pearly EverlastingAnaphalis margaritacea
(Native)
Pearly Everlasting, Western Pearly EverlastingPearly Everlasting is an attractive plant, and is probably not native to all of its range in the United States, more likely being introduced in many areas as an ornamental. It is native to part of the United States and Canada, and is reported in most states other than those in the deep south.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Pearly Everlasting, Western Pearly Everlasting
PencilflowerStylosanthes biflora
(Native)
Pencil Flower, Endbeak Pencilflower, Sidebeak PencilflowerAs with all memboers of Stylosanthes, S. biflora has triofoliate leaves and small yellow flowers. This member of the Pea family is found in most of the eastern United States outside of New England, and in the south as far west as Texas. It has also been reported in Arizona, although that report may be erroneous. Arizona, Texas, and Florida are the only states with other Stylosanthes species present in the wild. It is Endangered in Pennsylvania.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Pencil Flower, Endbeak Pencilflower, Sidebeak Pencilflower
PennywortObolaria virginica
(Native)
Pennywort, Virginia PennywortA native of the eastern part of the United States, this small woodland plant is the only member of the genus Obolaria.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Pennywort, Virginia Pennywort
PeonyPaeonia brownii
(Native)
Western PeonyPaeonia brownii is one of two peonies native to the United States. The other one is Paeonia californica and is found only in California. Paeonia brownii, named for English botanist Robert Brown (1773-1858), is found in that state as well as the 7 northwestern states. There are a couple of non-native Paeonia species that have naturalized in a few eastern states. Paeonia is the only genus in the family Paeoniaceae.

Found in:
CA, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Western Peony
Perilla, Beefsteak PlantPerilla frutescens
(Introduced)
Beefsteak Plant, Beefsteak Mint, Perilla MintPerilla frutescens is a monotypic species native to Asia, which has been used as an ornamental and is naturalized in most of the eastern United States. In the west, it is found in the wild in one county in Washington state.

There are reports that this plant is becoming an increasing problem in the eastern seaboard - see Invasive Notes of September 17, 2013 by John Thompson.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI, WV
Beefsteak Plant, Beefsteak Mint, Perilla Mint
PeriwinkleVinca major
(Introduced)
Bigleaf Periwinkle, Large Periwinkle, Greater PeriwinklePeriwinkle, both Vinca major and Vinca minor are introduced species which escaped from gardens and have become fairly widely naturalized. V. major has larger leaves than V. minor as well as a larger blossom. V. Minor blossom is usually an inch across or smaller, while V. major may be 1.5 to 2 inches wide.Bigleaf Periwinkle, Large Periwinkle, Greater Periwinkle
PeriwinkleVinca minor
(Introduced)
Small Periwinkle, Common Periwinkle, Dwarf Periwinkle, Lesser Periwinkle, Creeping MyrtleThis plant, introduced from central and southern Europe, can be weedy or invasive. It is an an attractive groundcover, which is the reason it made its way to the United States and is so widespread.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Small Periwinkle, Common Periwinkle, Dwarf Periwinkle, Lesser Periwinkle, Creeping Myrtle
PhaceliaPhacelia bipinnatifida
(Native)
Purple Phacelia, Fernleaf PhaceliaA fairly common but beautiful plant of rich cove forests, From Iowa east to New Jersey and south to Arkansas to South Carolina.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MD, MO, MS, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV, GS
Purple Phacelia, Fernleaf Phacelia
PhaceliaPhacelia hastata
(Native)
Silverleaf Phacelia, Timberline Phacelia, Mountain PhaceliaPhacelia hastata may grow to 3 feet tall, although it is sometimes decumbent - the stems lying along the ground. It is a plant of mid to alpine elevations. These were photographed at 3,000' or higher.

Found in:
CA, CO, ID, MT, ND, NE, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY

Note: I have some doubt about this identification - these photos may be of Phacelia heterophylla (Varileaf Phacelia.)
Silverleaf Phacelia, Timberline Phacelia, Mountain Phacelia
PhaceliaPhacelia linearis
(Native)
Threadleaf Phacelia, Narrow Leaved Phacelia, Carson's Phacelia, Threadleaf ScorpionweedThe USDA Plants Database lists 159 species of Phacelia in the United States, with the genus being absent only in 5 states. Most of the species are found in the western half of the country, and Phacelia linearis is among them, being found in the northwestern quadrant as far south as Utah, Nevada, and northern California. Its easternmost range is a single county (Pennington) in South Dakota. I suspect the disjunct populations in Connecticut and Maine are not native. It is found in sagebrush scrub and dry, open woods (not your typical Connecticut or Maine habitats.)

Found in:
CA, CT, ID, ME, MT, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY
Threadleaf Phacelia, Narrow Leaved Phacelia, Carson's Phacelia, Threadleaf Scorpionweed
PhaceliaPhacelia purshii
(Native)
Miami Mist, Purple ScorpionweedThe Phacelia genus is classified by some as in the Hydrophylloideae subfamily of Boraginaceae, while other authorities believe that subfamily should be classified as the separate family Hydrophyllaceae. I currently show it in the separate Hydrophyllaceae family, but am not sure whether that separation will stick or not.

Thanks to Mike Christison of the Georgia Botanical Society for pointing me in the direction of this population of Phacelia purshii, on a flood plain of a small creek at the foot of Pigeon Mountain. Flood plains and moist forest slopes are the normal habitat for Phacelia purshii, which is found in 20 states in the eastern half of the United States. Phacelia purshii was discovered by Frederick Pursh, a German botanist who spent more than two decades in North America in the 18th and 19th centuries. The plant is similar to the smaller, white-flowered P. fimbriata, Fringed Phacelia. P. boykinii and P. bicknellii are usually considered synonyms of P. purshii by most authorities, although there is some indication that there may be reason to consider these separate species.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, GA, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, MO, NC, NJ, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, WV
Miami Mist, Purple Scorpionweed
PhaceliaPhacelia fimbriata
(Native)
Fringed Phacelia, White Fringed Phacelia, Fringed Scorpion-Weed, Blue Ridge Phacelia, Mountain PhaceliaThere are nearly 200 species of Phacelia, a plant native to North and South America. Around 150 or so are found in North America (I've read authorities who listed both of those numbers as lower), and most of those are western species, with California claiming the most of any state. Only 14 species are found in the eastern United States. Two of those 14 species, Phacelia fimbriata - the species presented here - and Phacelia purshii - Miami Mist - are the only Phacelia species with fringed petals. These two species are quite similar - reports that P. fimbriata is found in Alabama, as shown on the USDA Plants Database map and many other sources, are probably a result of P. purshii being mistaken for P. fimbriata.

Fringed Phacelia, shown on this page, is usually white, although to add to the confusion, it can be a pale blue or lavender, as is Miami Mist. Fringed Phacelia is a weaker-stemmed plant, usually smaller, and has much deeper fringe than Miami Mist. Fringed Phacelia is also found at higher elevations than Miami Mist, usually higher than 3,500 feet. Seed germination for these species occurs in the fall (they both overwinter as a rosette of leaves), but germination of P. fimbriata requires cooler temperatures found at higher elevations. Because of this, Fringed Phacelia has a much narrower range than P. purshii - the high mountains of the southern Appalachians, with large populations being found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where the photos on this page were taken.

Found in:
GA, NC, TN, VA
Fringed Phacelia, White Fringed Phacelia, Fringed Scorpion-Weed, Blue Ridge Phacelia, Mountain Phacelia
PhaceliaPhacelia dubia
(Native)
Glade Phacelia, Smallflower Phacelia, Appalachian Phacelia, Central Basin Phacelia, Small-flowered ScorpionweedThere are around 150 species of Phacelia in North America, with additional species in South America. The genus is absent in only 5 states. Most of the species are found in the western half of the United States, with less than a dozen found in the Southeast. Some authorities place Phacelia in the family Boraginaceae rather than Hydrophyllaceae.

Phacelia dubia is one of those southeastern species, ranging from as far north as New York and south to Georgia; west to Arkansas and Louisiana. There are three commonly recognized varieties of this plant: var. dubia, the most widely distributed variety; var. georgiana, which is found in Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina (SC specimens might not be var. georgiana, perhaps are a 4th variety); and var. interior, found only in central Tennessee. The photographs on this page are var. interior. The varieties are distinguished by small morphological differences.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, GA, LA, MD, MS, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Glade Phacelia, Smallflower Phacelia, Appalachian Phacelia, Central Basin Phacelia, Small-flowered Scorpionweed
PhloxPhlox pilosa
(Native)
Downy Phlox Downy Phlox, Chilhowee Mountain, Polk County, TN 05/08/2004 Downy Phlox
PhloxPhlox paniculata
(Native)
Fall Phlox; Garden phloxNear Big Frog Mountain on FR221, Polk County, TN 06/13/2004 Fall Phlox; Garden phlox
PhloxPhlox amoena
(Native)
Hairy Phlox, Chalice PhloxPhlox species are difficult to differentiate. Not only do several species share similar shapes in both the flower and the leaves, but the color ranges are broad and similar. An identifying characteristic for this species is the hairy calyx, but glabrous corolla tube.

Phlox amoena is a plant of dry forests, roadsides, and hills. It blooms from April thru July, depending on the part of the range. It is found in the southeastern states.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, KY, MS, NC, SC, TN
Hairy Phlox, Chalice Phlox
PhloxPhlox divaricata
(Native)
Wild Blue Phlox, Woodland Phlox, Sweet William, Louisiana Phlox
The Phlox family - Polemoniaceae is primarily a family of the Americas with about 350 or so species. There are about 70 species in the Phlox genus. Phlox species can be very difficult to differentiate. Not only do several species share similar shapes in both the flower and the leaves, but the color ranges are broad and similar. You have to look at details to differentiate between many of the plants in this genus.

Phlox divaricata is a plant of rich moist deciduous woods and bluffs of much of the eastern half of the United States and southeastern Canada. The reports that it is in New Mexico appear to be unsupported.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Wild Blue Phlox, Woodland Phlox, Sweet William, Louisiana Phlox
PhloxPhlox glaberrima
(Native)
Smooth Phlox, Marsh Phlox
The Phlox family - Polemoniaceae - is primarily a family of the Americas with about 350 or so species. There are about 70 species in the Phlox genus. Phlox species can be very difficult to differentiate. Not only do several species share similar shapes in both the flower and the leaves, but the color ranges are broad and similar. You have to look at details to differentiate between many of the plants in this genus.

Phlox glaberrima is a species of the central and southeastern United States, from southern Wisconsin south through Oklahoma to Lousiana, and east to the east coast north to Ohio, West Virginia, and Maryland. Many authorities classify the plant as 3 subspecies, ssp. interior being the westernmost, ssp. triflora being more eastern, and ssp. glaberrima being in a subset of the states where triflora is located. Georgia, Kentucky, and Tennessee are the only states where all three subspecies are found. I have found little information on differentiating between the subspecies except that ssp. triflora has basal foliage which overwinters and it flowers earlier than the others; April through June versus June and July for the other subspecies.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OH, OK, SC, TN, VA, WI, WV, GS
Smooth Phlox, Marsh Phlox
PhloxPhlox diffusa
(Native)
Spreading PhloxThe Phlox family - Polemoniaceae is primarily a family of the Americas. The Phlox genus has 71 species listed in the USDA plants database. Phlox diffusa has four subspecies listed in the USDA Plants Database, implying significant variation within the species. You have to look at details to differentiate between many of the plants in this genus. Phlox diffusa (the species presented here) and Phlox hoodii (Hood's Phlox) are similar plants with overlapping ranges and habitats. Here are a few differences, based on what I've derived from several descriptions:
  • P. hoodii may be more common at lower elevations; P. diffusa at higher elevations.
  • P. hoodii mounds rarely grow higher than 4 inches above the ground; P. diffusa may be as high as 8 inches.
  • P. hoodii is a somewhat later blooming species, usually starting in late spring.
  • P. hoodii is more densely hairy, having woolly stems and leaf bases. The calyx of P. diffusa is smooth; that may not be the case with P. hoodii.
  • P. diffusa will have solitary blossoms at the end of the branchlets. P. hoodii may have up to three flowers at the end of a branchlet.


Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NE, NM, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY
Spreading Phlox
PhloxPhlox carolina
(Native)
Carolina Phlox, Summer Phlox, Thickleaf Phlox, Giant PhloxPhlox species can be very difficult to differentiate. Not only do several species share similar shapes in both the flower and the leaves, but the color ranges are broad and similar. You have to look at details to differentiate between many of the plants in this genus. Carolina Phlox (P. carolina) and Smooth Phlox (P. glaberrima) are particularly difficult to differentiate, with the differences being in the shape of the calyx and the sepals. Frankly, it's beyond my expertise. Fortunately I had some help with this one - this was photographed near Craggy Gardens on the Blue Ridge Parkway at an altitude between 4,000' and 5,000', and the staff there, using the location-specific ID book they have at the visitor center, identified it as Carolina Phlox. Other characteristics match, and Phlox carolina blooms later than Phlox glaberrima; P. glaberrima reportedly would be rarely blooming in late August, when these photographs were taken, while that is not an unusual bloom time for P. carolina. Carolina Phlox grows in woodland edges and openings, such as roadside on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is reported extirpated in Maryland.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA
Carolina Phlox, Summer Phlox, Thickleaf Phlox, Giant Phlox
PhloxPhlox bifida
(Native)
Cleft Phlox, Glade Phlox, Ten-point Phlox, Sand Phlox, Starry Cleft PhloxThe Phlox family - Polemoniaceae is primarily a family of the Americas with about 350 or so species. There are about 70 species in the Phlox genus. Phlox species can be very difficult to differentiate. Not only do several species share similar shapes in both the flower and the leaves, but the color ranges are broad and similar. You have to look at details to differentiate between many of the plants in this genus. Fortunately only a few have notably notched petals.

Phlox bifida is a species of the middle part of the United States, ranging from middle Tennessee and Kentucky west to Arkansas and Kansas, and north to Minnesota (1 county, not shown on the USDA map) and Michigan (where it might be extirpated.) It is reported to be established in the wild in 1 county in Vermont, where it is not native.

Found in:
AR, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, TN, VT, WI
Cleft Phlox, Glade Phlox, Ten-point Phlox, Sand Phlox, Starry Cleft Phlox
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PickerelweedPontederia cordata
(Native)
Pickerelweed, Lanceleaf Pickerelweed, Heartleaf Pickerelweed, Pickerel RushPontederia is a small genus with only 6 species worldwide (there are only around 30 species in the Pontederiaceae family.) The species presented here, Pontederia cordata is the only one found in North America; all the other species in the genus are native to South America.

Pontederia cordata is a native aquatic plant of the eastern half of the United States and Canada. It is also found naturalized in Oregon, where it is considered invasive, and natively in South America. It is rooted in muddy flats of ponds, lakes and marshes. It spreads vegetatively via submerged rhizomes. While it is generally considered to be a late summer flower, it can bloom as early as March in the southern parts of its range. According to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center "the seeds can be eaten like nuts and the young leaf-stalks cooked as greens. Deer also feed on these plants."

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Pickerelweed, Lanceleaf Pickerelweed, Heartleaf Pickerelweed, Pickerel Rush
PigeonwingsClitoria mariana
(Native)
Butterfly Pea, Atlantic pigeonwingsThere are about 60 species of Clitoria worldwide, but only a few are found in North America. Three are found in Puerto Rico, C. fragrans is native to central Florida, and C. ternatea is a 5-7 foliate introduced species found rarely in a few southern states. Clitoris mariana is the one most likely to be found by the rest of us since it is in most eastern states from New York south to Florida and westward to Minnesota and Arizona. Because of the few other Clitoria species in the United States, Clitoria mariana is more likely to be confused with Centrosema virginianum - Spurred Butterfly Pea - than with another Clitoria species.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WVJuly 12, 2007 Grundy County TN
Butterfly Pea, Atlantic pigeonwings
PincushionChaenactis douglasii
(Native)
Dusty Maidens, Douglas' Dustymaiden, Chaenactis, Douglas False YarrowThis is a member of the Asteraceae family which has no ray flowers, growing in the western part of the United States and Canada.

Medicinal: According to the Malheur Agricultural Experiment Station, Oregon State University: "Infusion of the plant is used as a wash for chapped hands, insect bites, boils, tumors, and swellings by the Okanagon, and Thompson. A strong decoction of the plants were applied to snakebites by the Thompson, Okanagon, and Paiute"

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, ND, NM, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY
Dusty Maidens, Douglas' Dustymaiden, Chaenactis, Douglas False Yarrow
PinkDianthus armeria
(Introduced)
Deptford Pink, Mountain PinkSome authorities consider this plant, a European native, to be weedy or invasive. This is supported by the fact that this introduced species is now found in the wild in all but three states (not known in Arizona, Alaska, or North Dakota) as well as much of Canada. Deptford is a town in the south of England where the plant grew in such abundance that it became the source of the common name.

Similar to Maiden Pink.

The Mountain Pink common name is more commonly used for the species Centaurium beyrichii.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Deptford Pink, Mountain Pink
PinkrootSpigelia marilandica
(Native)
Indian Pink, Woodland Pinkroot, Worm grassIndian Pink is an attractive plant, and by the color and shape of the flower, you could guess correctly that it is popular with hummingbirds. It has a number of medicinal properties, and is said to be an effective anti-worming agent (thus the Worm Grass name, presumably.) However, as with many plants used for medicinal purposes, it can be toxic and deadly if ingested improperly.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA
Indian Pink, Woodland Pinkroot, Worm grass
PipsissewaChimaphila maculata
(Native)
Spotted Wintergreen, Pipsissewa, Striped Wintergreen, Striped Prince's Pine, Striped Prince's Plume, Dragon's TongueWhile Spotted Wintergreen or Striped Wintergreen are frequently-used common names for Chimaphila maculata, the Wintergreen name is perhaps more properly associated with the Gautheria genus. The USDA and ITIS list it as Striped Prince's Pine, presumably to avoid confusion on genus membership. Pipsissewa is also frequently used for this plant, although that is more frequently associated with sister species Chimaphila umbellata, which does not have the stripe on the leaves and more frequently has generally reddish blossoms, and Pipsissewa is commonly applied to the Chimaphila genus in general. Three states (New York, Maine, Illinois) in which Chimaphila maculata, according to the USDA Plants Database, has protected status also list it as Spotted Wintergreen.

Some authorities place Chimaphila in Pyrolaceae - the Shinleaf family rather than in Ericaceae - the Heath family.

There are three species of Chimaphila found in the United States. Chimaphila menziesii - Little Prince's Pine - is found in several western states as well as British Columbia. Various subspecies of Chimaphila umbellata - Pipsissewa - are found across much of the United States and Canada. Chimaphila maculata - Spotted Wintergreen - is found in forests in every state east of the Mississippi and in Eastern Canada, and disjunctly is also found in the mountains of Arizona, Mexico, and Central America south to Panama.

Found in:
AL, AZ, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Spotted Wintergreen, Pipsissewa, Striped Wintergreen, Striped Prince's Pine, Striped Prince's Plume, Dragon's Tongue
PitcherplantSarracenia oreophila
(Native)
Green Pitcher PlantThis plant is critically endangered due to habitat destruction, both by development and agricultural use, and by plant collection by carnivorous plant enthusiasts and commercial dealers. There are about 35 known populations now: 5 counties in Alabama, 1 county in Georgia and 1 county in North Carolina. Formerly it was found in 7 additional counties in GA & AL. It was also known in one county in Tennessee, which is why the distribution on the USDA map includes TN. The Nature Conservancy has acquired three sites, the single Georgia location, a site in North Carolina, and one other site.

S. oreophila grows from a rhizome which may produce multiple pitchers, flowers, and leaves. While rhizomes are the principal mode of reproduction, it also produces seeds from its interesting flower.

Reference: Recovery Plan Green Pitcher Plant (Sarracenia oreophila) - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, Atlanta, Georgia
Green Pitcher Plant
PlantainPlantago lanceolata
(Introduced)
Narrowleaf Plantain, English Plantain, Buckhorn, Lanceleaf Plantain, Ribwort, Buckhorn, RibgrassOne of several true plantains (genus Plantago) in the NW Georgia area. This invasive plant is now found in every state in the United States, as well as much of Canada.

Article discussing medicinal and food use of the plant:Introducing the Plantains - multi-yielding plants for a permaculture system at Permaculture - Inspiration for Sustainable Living.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Narrowleaf Plantain, English Plantain, Buckhorn, Lanceleaf Plantain, Ribwort, Buckhorn, Ribgrass
PlantainPlantago virginica
(Native)
Virginia Plantain, Dwarf Plantain, Southern Plantain, Hoary Plantain, Paleseed IndianwheatPlantago virginica is a native plantain found in 38 of the 50 states, although it is naturalized rather than native in parts of its range, probably the western part, and is also non-native in its Canadian distribution. While it can be weedy in sandy or gravelly soils (this example was photographed on the verge of a driveway), it usually is not as much of a week problem as some of the other similar plantains, such as P. major and P. lanceolata, neither of which are hairy, and also have narrower leaves. P. aristata, P. patagonica, and P. pusilla are hairy, but have narrower leaves.

Virginia Plantain is listed of "special concern" in Connecticut.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Virginia Plantain, Dwarf Plantain, Southern Plantain, Hoary Plantain, Paleseed Indianwheat
PlumPrunus virginiana
(Native)
Chokecherry, Western Chokecherry, Black ChokecherryThere are three varieties of Prunus virginiana in the United States - P. Virginia var. virginiana (Common Chokecherry) is found in the eastern part of the country, and both P. virginiana var. melanocarpa (Black Chokecherry) and P. virginiana var. demissa (Western Chokecherry) are found in the western part. One variety or another is found in every state except Louisiana, Alabana, Mississippi, Florida, South Carolina, and Hawaii. Chokecherry is also found in most Canadian provinces.

There are minor differences between the varieties. Among other differences, var. melanocarpa has black fruit while the others have red or purple fruit. The fruit is edible, but use caution – as with many drupes (fruits with skin, pulp, and hard middle seed) the pit can be poisonous if consumed in large enough quantities (note that this is also true of peach, cherry, and plum pits,) and children have reportedly died from eating a large quantity of chokecherries with pits.

My initial identification of this plant was made using Idaho Mountain Wildflowers .

Although it is a useful wildlife food, it is considered weedy or invasive in the Northeast by some authorities, so use some discrimination in determining whether to propagate the plant.
Chokecherry, Western Chokecherry, Black Chokecherry
PlumPrunus americana
(Native)
American Plum, Wild PlumThreatened in New Hampshire and Vermont. Shrub to small tree growing up to 25' tall, and can be nearly as wide. It has low branches and thorns up to 3" long, so in the wild it can be part of a nearly impenetrable thicket. The fleshy fruit is edible. The plum fruit is usually around an inch in diameter.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
American Plum, Wild Plum
Plumeless ThistleCarduus nutans
(Introduced)
Bristle Thistle, Musk Thistle, Nodding Thistle, Nodding Plumeless ThistleCarduus nutans is not native to the United States, but has spread to nearly every state as well as to most of Canada. It is on the official noxious weed list in at least 25 states. Feel free to pull it up and discard it, but use gloves!

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV, WY
Bristle Thistle, Musk Thistle, Nodding Thistle, Nodding Plumeless Thistle
PogoniaPogonia ophioglossoides
(Native)
Rose Pogonia, Snakemouth Orchid, Rose Crested Orchid, Beard Flower, Sweet Crest OrchidPogonia was among the earliest genera split off from Linnaeus' Arethusa genus, when over 30 species were moved into Pogonia. Subsequent study and reclassification have resulted in the move of most of those Pogonia into a few other genera (Cleistes, Cleistesiopsis, and Isotria), so that Pogonia has only 3 or 4 species left. Only one of those, Pogonia ophioglossoides, is found in North America; the others are Asian species. The Pogonia name is from the Greek word meaning "bearded" - pogonias.

While Pogonia ophioglossoides has a wide range of distribution in North America, being found in wet forest openings, meadows, and swampy areas of 33 states as well as all of the southeastern provinces in Canada, it is endangered or threatened in at least 7 of those states.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Rose Pogonia, Snakemouth Orchid, Rose Crested Orchid, Beard Flower, Sweet Crest Orchid
Poison OakToxicodendron radicans
(Native)
Eastern Poison IvyThe eastern species of Poison Ivy, Toxicodendron radicans, is found throughout most of the eastern two-thirds of the US and in eastern Canada. It has much overlap with Western Poison Ivy, Toxicodendron rydbergii, especially in the northern climes. Poison Ivy is well-named, both for its climbing ivy-like vine, and the nature of its oils, to which most people have some degree of allergic reaction. This should be one of the first plants you teach your children to identify since it is so widespread and commonly found. It is classified as a Prohibited Noxious Weed in Minnesota.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Eastern Poison Ivy
Poison OakToxicodendron rydbergii
(Native)
Western Poison Ivy, Northern Poison IvyThe genus Toxicodendron has 5 species native to the United States- two poison oaks, two poison ivys, and poison sumac. All produce oils which are a significant skin irritant to most people. The oil seems to be harmful only to humans, but animals who have come into contact with the plant may carry the oil to their human companions - watch out where your dog has been rolling.

While it is usually called Western Poison Ivy, it grows throughout southern Canada and the lower 48 United States, except in California and several southeastern states. In the eastern parts of the country it may be known by the common name Northern Poison Ivy.

It is classified as Endangered in Ohio.

Found in:
AZ, CO, CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Western Poison Ivy, Northern Poison Ivy
PokeweedPhytolacca americana
(Native)
American Pokeweed, Pokeberry, Inkberry, Poke Sallet Famously edible leaves for Poke Sallet (Poke Salad), but careful - other plant parts, including the mature leaves, are poisonous. The berries also stain, and can be used to make an ink. While there are many rumors on the Internet that the original U.S. constitution was written in pokeberry ink, and I have not yet found any truly authoritative source of information, the best information I can find implies that this is not the case; the constitution was written with iron-gall ink. However, more likely are the reports that many letters written home during the U.S. Civil War were indeed written with pokeberry ink.

American Pokeweed can be weedy (Twitter friend @kevinsonger even attributes - jokingly, I presume - spontaneous generation to the plant) and is listed officially as such by several authoritative sources, such as the Southern Weed Science Society.

Herbalist Guido Mase of the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism tweeted this about the plant: "Root toxic, low-dose lymphatic, cancer / infection support. Berry juice=solar panel." The solar panel reference is about the juice being used in an experimental solar panel to produce electricity, as reported at newsobserver.com.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
American Pokeweed, Pokeberry, Inkberry, Poke Sallet
Pond-lilyNuphar lutea
(Native)
Yellow Pond Lily, Cowlily, SpatterdockThere seems to be some debate in the scientific community as to the appropriate names for Yellow Pond Lily. There are apparently 8 subspecies of this native plant, or maybe that's 8 separate species, depending on who you ask. I typically use the USDA classification, so for these purposes this is one of the subspecies of Nuphar lutea. One or more subspecies is found in every state in the United States except Hawaii, and in every Canadian province.

Yellow Pond Lily is an aquatic species which has a history of medical and food use.
Yellow Pond Lily, Cowlily, Spatterdock
PorteranthusPorteranthus trifoliatus
(Native)
Bowman's Root, False Ipecac, Fawn's Breath, Dropwort, Indian HippoBowman's root has been reclassified from Porteranthus trifoliatus to Gillenia trifoliata.

Generally smooth-stemmed, branched, to about 3 feet tall. Leaves have three lanceolate, toothed leaflets that are 2-3 inches long, with a pair of narrow, untoothed stipules that fall off before the plant blooms. Similar species Gillenia stipulata (syn: Porteranthus stipulatus) retains its large, toothed stipules during flowering.

Found in: AL, AR, DC, DE, GA, IL, KY, MA, MD, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, WV (USDA)
Bowman's Root, False Ipecac, Fawn's Breath, Dropwort, Indian Hippo
Prairie CloverDalea gattingeri
(Native)
Gattinger's Prairie Clover, Purpletassels, Purple TasselsDalea - the Prairie Clovers - is a fairly large genus with around 165 species, mostly of dry area in the Americas. There are more species in Mexico than in the United States, but there are over 60 species in the United States. Since they are found in dry areas it is to be expected that more species are found in the middle and southwestern parts of the United States than in the southeast, but Gattinger's Prairie Clover, Dalea gattingeri, is one of about a dozen found in the southeast. It is more common in middle Tennessee than in the other parts of its range - a few counties in East Tennessee, a few in Georgia, a few in Alabama, and 1 county each in Arkansas and Missouri. It blooms from May through August in limestone glades and other barrens that spend much of the year very dry.

Dalea purpurea is a similar species with a much wider distribution, as far east as Indiana south to middle Tennessee and northwest Georgia; much more widespread in the great plains states. Some differentiating characteristics are noted below in the descriptions accompanying the photographs.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, MO, TN
Gattinger's Prairie Clover, Purpletassels, Purple Tassels
Prairie ConeflowerRatibida pinnata
(Native)
Pinnate Prairie Coneflower, Yellow Coneflower, Grayhead ConeflowerRatibida is a genus of 4 species. Ratibida pinnata is found in prairies, along the borders of woodlands where full sun is available, and in forest openings and limestone outcrops which also receive much sun. The example here was photographed along a roadside.

Distribution is from the prairie states eastward except for a few of the eastern seaboard states, south into a couple of northern Florida counties, although distribution in the east and south is pretty sporadic.

Synonym: Rudbeckia pinnata - The relationship to the Rudbeckia species, such as Rudbeckia laciniata, is clear, and Pinnate Prairie Coneflower has been classified in Rudbeckia in the past.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MI, MN, MO, MS, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Pinnate Prairie Coneflower, Yellow Coneflower, Grayhead Coneflower
Prairie ConeflowerRatibida columnifera
(Native)
Mexican Hat, Long-Headed Coneflower, Red Coneflower, Upright Prairie Coneflower, ThimbleflowerRatibida is a genus of four species in the United States. While Ratibida columnifera is native to the United states, many of the populations in the United States are probably the result of naturalization of garden escapees. USDA Plants Database has it only in Davidson County in Tennessee, so these Meigs County photos are likely from a cultivated colony or escapees. It flowers between March and November, growing in prairies and other prairie-like habitats.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, LA, MA, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, WI, WV, WY
Mexican Hat, Long-Headed Coneflower, Red Coneflower, Upright Prairie Coneflower, Thimbleflower
Prickly PearOpuntia humifusa
(Native)
Eastern Prickly Pear, Low Prickly Pear Cactus, Devil's Tongue, Indian Fig, Common Eastern Prickly Pear
Opuntia - Prickly Pear - is the most widely distributed Cactus genus in the world, with somewhere between 150 and 200 species native to North and South America from Canada to Patagonia, and with a few species introduced in other parts of the world. There are over 30 species found in the United States - most in the west, but several found east of Texas. Most of these are in Florida, and a few in other southeastern coastal states. There are only one or two with significant distribution elsewhere in the east - Opuntia humifusa and if you subscribe to its separation from O. humifusa, Opuntia cespitosa.

For many years Opuntia humifusa was considered to be the only native cactus in Tennessee, where these photographs were taken. However, as Weakley's Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States says, "Opuntia species are notoriously difficult to identify," and with the return to species level O. cespitosa - which had been for so long considered to be contained within O. humifusa, the identification of O. mesacantha in western Tennessee, and the possibility that O. phaecantha is located in central Tennessee, O. humifusa may not be present in Tennessee at all, or nearly as widely distributed as it has been previously considered. While many authoritative descriptions still allow for O. humifusa to be in Tennessee with appearance as the plant shown here, most recent descriptions would imply that the plant shown here is instead O. cespitosa. However, since O. cespitosa is considered to be within the O. humifusa group of Opuntia, and it is not listed at all - synonym or otherwise - by many authoritative sources such as FNA, ITIS, NPIN, USDA, and BONAP, I am going to list this species here for now as Opuntia humifusa, and make note of some differences.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Eastern Prickly Pear, Low Prickly Pear Cactus, Devil's Tongue, Indian Fig, Common Eastern Prickly Pear
Primrose-willowLudwigia alternifolia
(Native)
Seedbox, Smooth Seedbox, Bushy Seedbox, Rattle-box, Square-pod Water-primroseLudwidigia alternifolia is a plant found in swamps and other moist areas throughout much of the eastern United States and on west into Colorado. It grows to three or four feet tall, although it may have a tendency to recline on other plants, blooming from mid- to late summer.

Thanks to Twitter friend @PineLilyFNPS for the tip that Ludwigia species are larval hosts for the Banded Sphinx Moth - Eumorpha fasciatus

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Seedbox, Smooth Seedbox, Bushy Seedbox, Rattle-box, Square-pod Water-primrose
Primrose-willowLudwigia decurrens
(Native)
Wingleaf Primrose-willow, Wingstem Water Primrose, Willow Primrose, Upright Primrose-willowLudwigia is a genus with over 80 species worldwide, and the USDA Plants Database lists 33 species in the United States and territories, with all but 3 being native. Only 6 states do not have a Ludwigia species (Alaska, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, North Dakota, South Dakota.) Ludwigia decurrens is plant that is native to the southern two-thirds of central and eastern United States. While it is protected as Rare or Endangered in Indiana and Pennsylvania, it has naturalized and is considered an obnoxious weed in California. It grows in wet or marshy area, and is sometimes aquatic. Fragments of the plant will root in a day or two in water.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Wingleaf Primrose-willow, Wingstem Water Primrose, Willow Primrose, Upright Primrose-willow
Primrose-willowLudwigia peploides
(Native)
Creeping Water Primrose, Floating Primrose-Willow, Water-primroseLudwigia (Primrose-willow) is a large genus with over 80 species worldwide - it is found on every continent except Antartica. While more are found in temperate and tropical climates than in the colder areas, they do range into northern climes, and Canada has banned the import of at least 2 species in the genus (Ludwigia hyssopifolia and Ludwigia prostrata) and over 30 species are found in the United States. The species presented here, Ludwigia peploides, is native to parts of North America (primarily the Southeast), but it has spread dramatically with the spread of man, and has become a significant invasive plant in other parts of the United States. For example, Washington State has named it a Class A Noxious Weed, requiring landowners to eradicate it when it is found on their property.

As with most Primrose-willows, Ludwigia peploides has an affinity for wetlands, and can be either aquatic in depths up to 10 feet (thus the Floating Primrose-willow common name) or terrestrial, where the Creeping Primrose-willow common name would be more appropriate.

Found in:
AL , AR, AZ, CA, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Creeping Water Primrose, Floating Primrose-Willow, Water-primrose
Prince's PlumeStanleya pinnata
(Native)
Desert Prince's Plume, Golden Prince's Plume, Golden Desert Plume, Sentinel Of The PlainsStanleya (Prince's Plume) is a small genus of six or seven species of the western United States extending into the western Great Plains. Stanleya pinnata has the largest distribution in the genus, and is the only one found further east than Colorado. Most authorities classify three varieties within Stanleya pinnata, although some authorities consider Stanleya bipinnata to be a variety of Stanleya pinnata rather than a separate species.

Stanleya pinnata is a shrub or subshrub of dry, open habitats ranging from prairies to desert areas. It is the most widely distributed species in the genus.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, KS, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, OR, SD, TX, UT, WY
Desert Prince's Plume, Golden Prince's Plume, Golden Desert Plume, Sentinel Of The Plains
Purple ConeflowerEchinacea purpurea
(Native)
Eastern Purple Coneflower, Purple ConeflowerThere are nine species of Echinacea found in the United State, with every state except for our 9 western-most states having at least one species. This species, Echinacea purpurea, is found in more of our states (28) than any of the other species.

Echinacea purpurea is a plant that grows to about 3 feet tall, with single terminal composite blossoms having pinkish-purple rays.

Eastern Purple Coneflower is listed as Endangered in Florida, and as Probably Extirpated in Michigan.
Eastern Purple Coneflower, Purple Coneflower
Purple ConeflowerEchinacea simulata
(Native)
Wavyleaf Purple Coneflower, Prairie Purple Coneflower, Glade Coneflower
Echinacea is a small genus of 9 or 10 species closely related to Rudbeckia. All species of Echinacea are endemic to eastern and central North America.

Echinacea simulata has a relatively small distribution, with locations still being determined, since some populations of E. simulata being previously identified as E. pallida, with a primary diagnostic to determine the species being the color of the pollen - E. simulata has yellow pollen, while E. pallida has white pollen. The USDA map shown on this page is incorrect; it is not currently believed to be in North Carolina or Virginia, and there are reports that it is in Arkansas and Indiana. It is a plant of glades, prairies, and rocky open woodlands. The specimens here were photographed in Rutherford County, TN, in one of the few locations where it is known in the state. It is rare in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee.

The rootstock of Echinacea was used by Native Americans for a variety of ailments, and today commercial drugs and supplements include the species. The plant can be threatened by unscrupulous collectors who sell it to herbal medicine manufacturers. Do not collect the plant in the wild.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, IL, IN, KY, MO, TN
Wavyleaf Purple Coneflower, Prairie Purple Coneflower, Glade Coneflower
Purple ConeflowerEchinacea tennesseensis
(Native)
Tennessee Coneflower, Tennessee Purple Coneflower
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) is a small genus of 9 or 10 species closely related to Rudbeckia (Coneflower). All species of Echinacea are endemic to eastern and central North America. Plants in the genus are known for their medicinal value. Echinacea tennesseensis has the smallest distribution of all species in the genus - cedar glades of three counties in central Tennessee. The plant was placed on the U.S. Endangered Species list in 1979 (it was among the first proposed for the list), but due to recovery was delisted in 2011. It is still considered rare due to its very limited distribution.
Synonym(s): Echinacea angustifolia var. tennesseensis

Found in:
TN
Tennessee Coneflower, Tennessee Purple Coneflower
PussytoesAntennaria solitaria
(Native)
Solitary Pussytoes, Singlehead PussytoesThere are 45 to 70 species in Antennaria worldwide, with over 30 in the United States and Canada, and there is at least one species in every state except Hawaii. Antennaria solitaria is one of six species found east of the Mississippi River, and is the only one in the east with solitary flowers. It is generally a plant of dry woods and openings of the southeastern United States, found as far north as southern Illinois through southern Pennsylvania, and west of the Mississippi with limited distribution in Louisiana. The map to the right shows it also as present in Arkansas and New Jersey, but that is apparently incorrect or perhaps historic. It is rare in Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and Louisiana.

Found in:
AL, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV, GS
Solitary Pussytoes, Singlehead Pussytoes
PussytoesAntennaria plantaginifolia
(Native)
Plantain-leaf Pussytoes, Woman's TobaccoThe USDA Plants Database lists 40 species of Antennaria in the United States and Canada, and there is at least one species in every state except Hawaii. Antennaria plantaginifolia is one of only six species found east of the Mississippi River, being present in every state east of that geographic boundary as well as in the 5 other Mississippi River bordering states.

Plantain-leaf Pussytoes is stoloniferous - growing from a runner along the ground, and dioecious - male and female flowers are on different plants.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Plantain-leaf Pussytoes, Woman's Tobacco
PygmypipesMonotropsis odorata
(Native)
Sweet Pinesap, Pygmy Pipes, Carolina beechdrops, Appalachian Pygmy PipesThere are only 1 or 2 species in the Monotropsis genus; some authorities consider the fall-flowering form to be a separate species, M. reynoldsiae, while some classify them as a single species. The spring form blooms from early spring into early summer. The genus name indicates the similarity of Monotropsis to the Monotropa genus. The species epithet - odorata - refers to the strong, sweet aroma of the plant while in bloom. This plant is small and inconspicuous, sometimes not rising above the fallen leaves in its forest habitat, frequently upland woods under oaks and pines, often cohabiting with Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel. The coloration of Sweet Pinesap also adds to the difficulty in spotting it, and it is frequently smelled and not seen.

Sweet Pinesap has no chlorophyll and is mycotrophic - it gets its nutrition from fungi which get their nutrition from the roots of trees. Both Monotropa and Monotropsis are mycotrophic, and have been classified together in a different family - Monotropaceae. While their move to Ericaceae has been somewhat controversial, apparently recent studies support that move.

Monotropsis odorata is a rare plant of the southeastern U.S. It is endangered or threatened in Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, and Tennessee.

Found in:
AL, DE, FL, GA, KY, MD, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV
Sweet Pinesap, Pygmy Pipes,  Carolina beechdrops, Appalachian Pygmy Pipes
Queen Anne's LaceDaucus carota
(Introduced)
Queen Anne's Lace, Wild CarrotWhile the root of Queen Anne's Lace is edible, use caution! This plant, as with all members of the carrot family, looks quite similar to poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), the deadly plant believed to be the source of the poison that killed Socrates.

From the website "Plantllife": There are several stories as to why the wild version is named 'Queen Anne's lace'. Most revolve around King James I's consort - the Queen Anne in question - who is said to have pricked her finger and stained some lace with a drop of blood. Wild carrot's single red flower surrounded by frothy white blossom is quite evocative of this tale.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Queen Anne's Lace, Wild Carrot
RagweedAmbrosia trifida
(Native)
Great Ragweed, Buffalo Weed, Horseweed, Giant Ragweed, Tall AmbrosiaAmbrosia - the nectar of the gods. An unlikely name for the genus of 24 species native to the United States which causes so much discomfort to us mere humans. At least one of these species is found in every state; Ambrosia trifida is found in all but 3 - Alaska, Hawaii, and Nevada. It is the tallest of the Ambrosia species, sometimes growing to more than 10 feet tall.

The ragweeds generally cause much hayfever, allergic reaction, and asthma exacerbation due to their tiny airborne pollen, which can drift and be inhaled far from the source plant. In addition, this highly persistent plant is considered a noxious weed farmers. According to Wikipedia, it can reduce corn and soybean crop yields by more than 50%.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Great Ragweed, Buffalo Weed, Horseweed, Giant Ragweed, Tall Ambrosia
RagweedAmbrosia artemisiifolia
(Native)
Common Ragweed, Annual Ragweed, Small Ragweed, Roman WormwoodThe leaves and stem of Common Ragweed are hairy. The leaves are deeply lobed and quite ragged. The inflorescence is a slender, almost candle-like cluster at the end of the stems. The upper flowers are usually male; the lower flowers female.

The ragweeds generally cause much hayfever, allergic reaction, and asthma exacerbation due to their tiny airborne pollen, which can drift and be inhaled far from the source plant. Because of this, other plants which bloom at the same time, such as Goldenrod, frequently get blamed for ragweed-caused hayfever.

Common ragweed is found in every state in the United States except for Alaska, and is found in most of Canada. While it is an introduced species in Hawaii, it is native to continental North America. Two varieties of the plant are native to the eastern United States; a variety found in the all but a few southeastern states is native to Canada but not to the United States, according to the USDA Plants Database. It is officially listed as a noxious weed in Illinois, Michigan, and Oregon, and is thus legally controlled. It is considered a weed due to agricultural considerations in much of the United States.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Common Ragweed, Annual Ragweed, Small Ragweed, Roman Wormwood
RagwortPackera glabella
(Native)
Butterweed, Yellowtop, Cressleaf Groundsel, Floodplain RagwortPackera was separated from the Senecio genus and contains what were categorized as the aureoid senecios (I assume this means "golden ragworts") by Asa Gray. The separation was partially based on genetic studies.

There are 64 species of Packera recognized worldwide as of this writing (April 2012), over 50 of which are found in the United States. More than half of the species are glabrous (without hairs) or mostly glabrous, having hairs only in the joints - axils of leaves, and the bases of the flower heads and stems. The epithet for this species, glabella, references the usuallyy glabrous nature of the plant, although it may occasionally have a few hairs in the leaf axils. Packera glabella is found in damp to quite wet soils.

The genus is named for Canadian botanist John G. Packer, the author of Flora of Alberta and Professor Emeritus at the University of Alberta.

It is a weedy plant, and is classified as a Prohibited noxious weed in Ohio

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NE, OH, OK, SC, SD, TN, TX
Butterweed, Yellowtop, Cressleaf Groundsel, Floodplain Ragwort
RagwortPackera anonyma
(Native)
Small's Ragwort, Appalachian Ragwort, Southern Ragwort, Plain Ragwort
Packera was separated (along with Rugelia) from the Senecio genus. Packera contains what were categorized as the aureoid senecios (I assume this means "golden ragworts") by Asa Gray. The separation was partially based on genetic studies. There are around 65 species of Packera recognized worldwide, over 50 of which are found in the United States.

Packera anonyma - formerly Senecio anonymus, aka Senecio smallii - is found in a variety of drier habitats in much of the eastern United States, excluding mostly New England. The photos on this page were taken in a cedar glade in middle Tennessee. These glades are usually quite wet in the winter and early spring, but quite dry in late spring and summer. It is rare in the northeastern part of its range as well as in Indiana. It is described as being "almost weedy" in most other parts of its range.

Found in:
AL, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Small's Ragwort, Appalachian Ragwort, Southern Ragwort, Plain Ragwort
Rain Lily, ZephyrlilyZephyranthes atamasco
(Native)
Atamasco Lily, Rain Lily, Easter-lily, Naked Lady
Zephyranthes is a moderately-sized genus of small lilies with about 70 species worldwide, of the western hemisphere. There are about a dozen or so species in the United States, primarily in the southeast, but ranging as far west as Arizona. Zephyranthes is closely related to Habranthus (Copperlily). Zephyranthes gets its name from Zephyrus, the mythical Greek west wind, who was husband to the goddess of flowers, Chloris. Since these typically bloom around Easter, at that time some folks call them Easter Lilies.

Zephyranthes atamasco is the type species for the genus, and is found in the southeastern coastal states from Maryland south to Florida and west to Mississippi. It is one of three Zephyranthes species native to mesic (balanced moisture) habitats in the southeast. The others are Z. simpsonii and Z. treatiae, both of which have a much smaller range than Z. atamasco. Z. simpsonii has much shorter pistil, about the same length as the stamens, neither of which are significantly exserted from the corolla tube. It is much more difficult to tell Z. treatiae, which in the past has been considered a variety of Z. atamasco. The filaments of Z. atamasco are relatively longer than those of Z. treatiae, and the leaves of Z. atamasco are wider and are concave. (Were it not for those concave leaves, I may not have been able to determine the plants on this page are Z. atamasco.)

Zephyranthes atamasco is sometimes spelled as Zephyranthes atamasca, perhaps by the majority of publications and experts. The plant was originally placed in genus Amaryllis by Carl Linnaeus, and he spelled it both as Amaryllis atamasca and Amaryllis atamasco. However, when it was placed in Zephyranthes by William Herbert in 1821, it was named Zephyranthes atamasco. Since Atamasco was the original native American name for the flower, it appears that was the originally intended spelling, and the one I am using. Countering this is that ICN (International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants) may still have it as Zephyranthes atamasca, although I think that will soon change.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, SC, VA
Atamasco Lily, Rain Lily, Easter-lily, Naked Lady
Rattlesnake PlantainGoodyera pubescens
(Native)
Downy Rattlesnake Plantain, Downy Rattlesnake Orchid, Adder's Violet, Net-leaf PlantainDowny Rattlesnake Plantain is one of the most commonly found orchids in the eastern United States, and is also one of the most widely distributed, being found in 31 states and in the eastern half of Canada. It is, however, Endangered in Florida at the southern end of its range, and is protected in New York as well.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Downy Rattlesnake Plantain, Downy Rattlesnake Orchid, Adder's Violet, Net-leaf Plantain
RattlesnakerootPrenanthes serpentaria
(Native)
Cankerweed, Lion's Foot, Snakeweed, Earthgall, ButterweedFound on the eastern seaboard and Appalachian Mountain states as far south as Florida and as far west as Mississippi, Prenanthes serpentaria is Endangered in Massachusetts and a species of Special Concern in Rhode Island. The species epithet serpentaria and the genus common name Rattlesnakeroot come from the use of a tonic historically made from the roots or the milky juice of the stem as an antidote for the poison of snake bites.

There are similar Prenanthes species found in Haywood County, North Carolina, where these photos were taken. I discounted P. trifoliolata because that species has more angular leaves and fewer heads in each inflorescence. I discounted P. altissima because of the general appearance of the plant vis-a-vis photos at the USDA Plants Database, and the number of phyllaries in that species - normally five, not more than 6.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, KY, MA, MD, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Cankerweed, Lion's Foot, Snakeweed, Earthgall, Butterweed
RedbudCercis canadensis
(Native)
Eastern RedbudThe Eastern Redbud adds a pink hue to the forest edges in early spring.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Eastern Redbud
RhododendronRhododendron calendulaceum
(Native)
Flame AzaleaFlame Azalea is Endangered in Ohio, and has been Extirpated in Pennsylvania.

Found in:
AL, CT, GA, KY, MD, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
This example from Polk County, TN
Flame Azalea
RhododendronRhododendron catawbiense
(Native)
Catawba Rhododendron, Mountain Rosebay,Purple Rhododendron Catawba Rhododendron, Mountain Rosebay,Purple Rhododendron
RhododendronRhododendron maximum
(Native)
Rosebay Rhododendron, Great Laurel, White LaurelMid-June in the SmokiesRosebay Rhododendron, Great Laurel, White Laurel
RhododendronRhododendron canescens
(Native)
Florida Pinxter, Mountain Azalea, Pink Azalea, Hoary AzaleaThis plant is Endangered in Kentucky, and Commercially Exploited in Florida. AL,

Found in:
AR, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX
Florida Pinxter, Mountain Azalea, Pink Azalea, Hoary Azalea
RhododendronRhododendron periclymenoides
(Native)
Pink Azalea; Pinxter FlowerOfficially listed in these states:
New Hampshire - Endangered
New York - Exploitably Vulnerable
Ohio - Threatened
Rhode Island - Special Concern

Synonym: Rhododendron nudiflorum

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, GA, IL, KY, MA, MD, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Pink Azalea; Pinxter Flower
RockcressBoechera laevigata
(Native)
Smooth Rockcress, Common Smooth Rock CressBoechera is a large genus, recently (21st century) separated (along with Arabidopsis and Turritis) from Arabis. Some authorities and many (perhaps most) publications still include Boechera within Arabis. As currently defined Boechera has over 110 species, primarily in western and northern North America with a few in Asia, and a few species extending into the southeastern United States. Boechera laevigata (formerly Arabis laevigata) is one of those species found in the southeast, but its range extend throughout the eastern United States (some reports it absent in Rhode Island) westward to the great plains states with reports as far west as Colorado and South Dakota. It is a biennial plant growing in rocky woodlands and forests, and rock outcrops. It occasionally is found in nearly PH neutral soils of bottomlands.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Smooth Rockcress, Common Smooth Rock Cress
RocketHesperis matronalis
(Introduced)
Dame's Rocket, Damask Violet, Night-scented Gilliflower, Queen's Gilliflower, Mother-of-the-evening, Summer LilacWhile Hesperis is a genus of about 25 species native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, only 1 species is found in North America. Hesperis matronalis was introduced from Europe in the early 1600s as an ornamental plant, and has since then spread across the continent except for a few southern states, and a few northern Canadian provinces. That spread is due to the prolific generation of seeds by the plant, and also by the inclusion of its seeds in wildflower seed mixes for gardeners. Demonstrating its continued spread, the USDA Plants Database map to the right is outdated; the plant is also now found in the wild in Alabama and Oklahoma. While so far it hasn't seemed to have an impact on native plants, its encroachment continues and caution should be exercised if you are considering growing it.

The scientific name of Hesperis - Greek for evening - and matronalis - matron or mother - was probably determined from one of the common names for this plant - Mother-of-the-evening, which was probably given because the scent of the flowers is more prevalent at that time of day. Whatever name you use, the leaves, oil, and seeds are reported to be edible (use caution, your own judgement, and do NOT rely on this page to determine edibility).

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Dame's Rocket, Damask Violet, Night-scented Gilliflower, Queen's Gilliflower, Mother-of-the-evening, Summer Lilac
Rose Rosa multiflora
(Introduced)
Multiflora Rose Rosa multiflora is an invasive, weedy species with thorny, arching branches and fragrant blossoms in the late spring. While it can be attractive while in bloom, I know from personal experience this is not a plant you want want to propagate.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, GS
Multiflora Rose
RoseRosa woodsii
(Native)
Woods Rose, Common Wild Rose, Mountain RoseWhile it's pretty easy to identify a wild rose, I am usually reluctant to call a specific species identification because there is usually significant variation within species, and significant similarities between species. For example this plant, Woods Rose (Rosa woodsii) and Nootka Rose (Rosa nutkana) are very similar except for size, and the Nootka Rose generally grows at higher elevations than the Woods' Rose. This time, however, I was walking the 3 mile long Hull's Gulch National Recreation Trail in the Boise Foothills, and there was a sign along the way mentioning some of the plants, among which Woods' Rose was listed.

There are four currently recognized varieties of Woods' Rose. One variety is found only in California (var. glabrata), and one only in California and Nevada (var. gratissima.) Var. ultramontana is the more widespread western variety, and var. woodsii is found through the central part of the United States and Canada, and in eastern Canada - primarily east of the Rockies. Montana and New Mexico have both varieties.

Rosa Woodsii is a species widely distributed across much of western and middle America and prefers moist conditions, but can adapt to an extremely wide variety of soils. Primary thicket growth is by rhizome.

Woods' Rose is a shrub that grows to 6 or 7 feet tall, with many red, thorny canes forming what may be almost impenetrable thickets, a good cover for birds and small animals. The thorns are straight or slightly curved, covering primarily the lower portion of the stems.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, IA, ID, KS, MN, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, WI, WY
Woods Rose, Common Wild Rose, Mountain Rose
RoseRosa palustris
(Native)
Swamp Rose, Marsh RoseRosa palustris is found in every state east of the Mississippi River, as well as 4 states on the west side of that river. It is also found in eastern Canada. As the common names indicate, it is a shub of wetlands that grows up to 7 feet tall, and will even grow in standing water. Similar Rosa virginiana is a plant of drier ground.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Swamp Rose, Marsh Rose
RoseRosa canina
(Introduced)
Dog Rose, Dog Brier, Common BriarThis white to pale pink wild rose originated in Eurasia. It is been known as the Dog Rose since ancient times - reportedly Pliny the Elder, born in the time of Christ, believed that the root could cure the bite of a mad dog, and used that to explain the origin of the common name. In spite of the positive attributes of this introduced species, it can be invasive or weedy, so use caution where you let it grow.

It is found now in at least 27 states. Based on the distribution pattern, it looks to me like it was introduced on both coasts and spread toward the middle of the United States. That pattern also applies to Canada. Synonym: Rosa corymbifera

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, TN, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV
Dog Rose, Dog Brier, Common Briar
RoseRosa setigera
(Native)
Prairie Rose, Climbing Rose, Climbing Prairie Rose, Climbing Wild Rose, Illinois Rose, Michigan RoseWhile it's pretty easy to identify a wild rose as a rose, I have avoided particular species identification because there is usually significant variation within species, and significant similarities between species - it can be very difficult for a non-expert like me. There are over 30 wild rose species in North America. Rosa segitera - Prairie Rose - is a climbing shrub or vine with fewer leaflets per leaf (3 or 5) than most other wild roses, making its identification easier.

Rosa setigera is an attractive plant which is sometimes cultivated, has been used as a hybrid in cultivars to enhance their hardiness, and is an attractant to birds who eat the bright red hips. While it is a native North American plant, it is likely not native to the easternmost and southernmost parts of its current range. The photos on this page are of a plant in Tennessee, where it is native.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV, GS
Prairie Rose, Climbing Rose, Climbing Prairie Rose, Climbing Wild Rose, Illinois Rose, Michigan Rose
Rose GentianSabatia angularis
(Native)
Rose Pink, Bitterbloom, Square-stemmed Sabbatia, Rose GentianUpright plant 2' to 3' tall, opposite mostly ovate leaves that appear to be sessile. 5-petaled blossom with distinct yellow-green pentagonal center, which is has a red outline.Rose Pink,  Bitterbloom, Square-stemmed Sabbatia, Rose Gentian
Rose GentianSabatia capitata
(Native)
Appalachian Rose Gentian, Cumberland Rose GentianRecorded as found in only 4 states (AL, GA, NC, TN), Sabatia capitata is legally protected, listed as Rare in Georgia, where it is known in 7 counties, and listed as Endangered in Tennessee, where it is known only in 2 counties - Hamilton and Sequatchie. It is listed as "S2" - some level of endangered - in Alabama. The research that I've done so far implies that it is likely extinct in North Carolina.

Found in:
AL, GA, NC, TN
Appalachian Rose Gentian, Cumberland Rose Gentian
RosemallowHibiscus moscheutos
(Native)
Swamp Rose Mallow, Crimsoneyed Rosemallow, Marshmallow, Woolly Rose Mallow, Hairy-fruited HibiscusI believe what is currently represented on this page is Hibiscus moscheutos ssp. lasiocarpos. Many publications still reflect this plant as a separate species, Hibiscus lasiocarpos - Rosemallow, Woolly Rose Mallow. However, I typically use ITIS when I find conflict with the scientific name of a plant, and in ITIS the accepted name is Hibiscus moscheutos ssp. lasiocarpos. My rationale for thinking this ssp. lasiocarpos is the red stems and leaf veins. I have combined the separate range information from the USDA Plants Database in the list below, while the USDA range map on this page shows only the range of Hibiscus moscheutos without including Arkansas, and California, states where lasiocarpos is found but other varieties and subspecies of Hibiscus moscheutos are not found. Note that the Jepson Flora Project of California plants treats this as Hibiscus lasiocarpos Cav. var. occidentalis as of July 23, 2013.

Hibiscus moscheutos ssp. lasiocarpos is Rare or Endangered in Indiana and California.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI, WV
Swamp Rose Mallow, Crimsoneyed Rosemallow, Marshmallow, Woolly Rose Mallow, Hairy-fruited Hibiscus
RosinweedSilphium pinnatifidum
(Native)
Cutleaf Rosinweed, Cutleaf Prairie Dock, Tansy Rosinweed, Southern DockRosinweeds look very similar to sunflowers, but the seeds form from the ray flowers in rosinweeds, and from the disk flowers in sunflowers. Silphium pinnatifidum can be to 10' tall, and has numerous heads on branching, nearly leafless stems. S. pinnatifidum is considered by some botanists to be a variety of S. terebinthinaceum, with the primary difference being the deeply lobed (almost to the central vein) leaves in S. pinnatifidum. The basal floret of leaves in S. terebinthinaceum are spade-like.

Found in:
AL, GA, IL, IN, KY, TN, WI
Cutleaf Rosinweed, Cutleaf Prairie Dock, Tansy Rosinweed, Southern Dock
RosinweedSilphium mohrii
(Native)
Mohr's Rosinweed, Shaggy RosinweedDescription: Very hairy plant to 6 feet tall, found in only a few counties in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee.Mohr's Rosinweed, Shaggy Rosinweed
RosinweedSilphium trifoliatum
(Native)
Whorled Rosinweed, Three-leaved RosinweedSilphium triofliatum is listed as a variety of S. asteriscus in Flora of North America, but ITIS continues to list it separately, although no longer with varieties, formerly var. trifoliatum and var. latifolium. Var. latifolium has opposite rather than whorled leaves. I expect that when all the updating is done, S. trifoliatum will be gone, and listed only as varieties of S. asteriscus.

Endangered in Illinois

Found in:
AL, DC, GA, IL, IN, KY, MD, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Whorled Rosinweed, Three-leaved Rosinweed
RosinweedSilphium brachiatum
(Native)
Cumberland RosinweedThere is a lot of disagreement on the circumscription of Silphium. As originally described by Linnaeus it had only 5 species. In 1933 Small described 33 species, but in 1937 Perry described the genus with only 23 species. Cronquist described 15 species in 1980. Silphium wasiotense was added to Cronquist's list in 1989 by Medley. Clevenger and Panero performed molecular, DNA, and morphological studies at the end of the 20th century and wound up with only 11 species, with Clevenger adding 1 in 2006 for a total of 12, which is the number described in Flora of North America. However, other authorities continue to recognize a much larger number of species (some of which are recognized instead as varieties in the Clevenger and Panero circumscription), and with the flux, Alan S. Weakley says the genus has 20 to 30 species; I prefer the larger number.

Silphium brachiatum is a rare species of Rosinweed found only in a few counties in the southern Cumberland Plateau of Tennessee and Alabama (some reports say it is also in Georgia, but I have not found any confirmation.) It apparently has only the one common name - Cumberland Rosinweed - since it is so rare. It was first described (and named) by Augustin Gattinger, Tennessee's first state botanist.

Found in:
AL, GA, TN
Cumberland Rosinweed
RubberweedHymenoxys grandiflora
(Native)
Alpine Sunflower, Four-nerved Daisy, Graylocks Rubberweed, Old-man-of-the-mountainHymenoxys is a genus of about 25 species native to western North America, Central America, and South America. About 17 are found in North America, all in the western part of the United States, with one (H. richardsonii) extending its range into Canada.

Hymenoxys grandiflora was first collected by explorer and politician John Fremont (once a presidential candidate) in 1842, and it was given the name Actinella grandiflora in 1845 by botanists John Torrey and Asa Gray. In 1898 it was renamed to Rydbergia grandiflora by Edward Greene. It apparently got a lot of attention in 1980, when it was placed in Hymenoxys and then in Tetraneuris. Some authorities continue to list it as Tetraneuris grandiflora (as it was once listed in Flora of North America), and I've found one reasonably scientific treatment listing it as Rydbergia grandiflora, but ITIS and Flora of North America call it Hymenoxys grandiflora (probably based on early 21st century papers by Mark W. Biemer), so that is the name I'll use. The Rydbergia association lives on in that this plant is within the Rydbergia subgenus of Hymenoxys.

Whatever you call it, this bright flower makes a cheery appearance above the treeline in alpine meadows of five Rocky Mountain states.

Found in:
CO, ID, MT, UT, WY
Alpine Sunflower, Four-nerved Daisy, Graylocks Rubberweed, Old-man-of-the-mountain
RugeliaRugelia nudicaulis
(Native)
Rugelia, Rugel's Indian Plantain, Rugel's Ragwort, Winter WellRugelia is monotypic - R. nudicaulis is the only species in the genus. This plant was originally classified as Rugelia when it was published in 1860 (collected in 1842), but it was reclassified as Senecio rugelia in 1883 by famous botanist Asa Gray, picking up the Rugel's Ragwort common name. Then in 1974 Theodore M. Barkley and Arthur Cronquist reclassified it as Cacalia rugelia based primarily on the shape of the floral head and the color of the corollas, providing the Rugel's Indian Plantain common name. As near as I can tell, some time between 1974 and his death in 2004 (I think in 1978 while he was overseeing the publication of the Asteraceae family in Flora of North America) Mr. Barkley reclassified the plant back to its original monotypic Rugelia nudicaulis. The plant was named for Ferdinand Ignatius Xavier Rugel, a German-born American botanist.

Rugelia nudicaulus has a very small distribution, being endemic to high altitudes (above 4,000') in Tennessee, where it is listed as Endangered, and North Carolina, where it is listed as Threatened. All known populations are within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The photographs on this page were taken along the trail from the parking lot to the observation tower on Clingman's Dome. This is not a showy, beautiful plant, but it is interesting.

Found in:
NC, TN
Rugelia, Rugel's Indian Plantain, Rugel's Ragwort, Winter Well
SageSalvia lyrata
(Native)
Lyreleaf SageLyreleaf Sage is a member of the mint family. Leaves are primarily basal, are oblong and deeply pinnately lobed. The plant is 1 to 2 feet tall, and blossoms in late spring or early summer. It can dominate open fields during its blooming season. The genus name Salvia implies the many medicinal purposes for which many of the over 900 species in the genus are used; there are over 90 species of Salvia in North America.

Salvia lyrata can be weedy or invasive, according to some authorities.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Lyreleaf Sage
SageSalvia urticifolia
(Native)
Nettleleaf Sage, Wild SageSalvia is a large genus of around 600 species in the Mint family (Lamiaceae.) Over 90 Salvia species are found in the North America; over 20 of these are introduced. Salvia urticifolia - Nettleleaf Sage - is a species confined mostly to the southeastern part of the country, with Pennsylvania being at the northernmost extreme of its range. It is Endangered in Florida, Kentucky, and Maryland (possibly extirpated in Maryland.) It is found in dry open woods and forest edges. The ones I have encountered were near cedar glades, which are on shallow soil over limestone, providing soil tending toward basic pH, the preferred soil for this species.

Found in:
AL, DC, FL, GA, KY, MD, MS, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA
Nettleleaf Sage, Wild Sage
Saxifrage (Alpine Saxifrage)Micranthes petiolaris
(Native)
Michaux's Saxifrage, Mountain SaxifrageBased on genetic studies the Saxifraga genus has been split up, with some species remaining in Saxifraga, one being classified in the monotypic genus Cascadia, and 47 species in the new genus Micranthes. There are only eight native North American Saxifraga species remaining in that genus, there are over forty in Micranthes. The easiest diagnostic for Micranthes vs Saxifraga is that the former has only basal leaves (or any cauline leaves may be crowded at the bottom of the stem,) while the latter (Saxifraga) will also have cauline leaves, although they may be very small.

Michaux's Saxifrage, formerly Saxifraga michauxii, is now classified as Micranthes petiolaris (although there is a move afoot that may move it to Hydratica petiolaris.) While many authors still classify this as Saxifraga michauxii, I typically follow the ITIS classification when there is dispute or transition, so am including it as Micranthes petiolaris. I will continue to use Saxifrage as the genus common name so that Saxifraga and Micranthes species will be listed together in the lists ordered by common name, but ITIS lists Micranthes as Alpine Saxifrage.

Michaux's Saxifrage is found on wet rocky places such as rock walls, boulder fields, and seeps in the Appalachian mountains from Maryland south to Georgia. The plants presented here were photographed on a rock wall along the Clingman's Dome parking lot in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Found in:
GA, KY, MD, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV
Michaux's Saxifrage, Mountain Saxifrage
Saxifrage (Alpine Saxifrage)Micranthes virginiensis
(Native)
Early Saxifrage, Virginia Saxifrage, Everlasting, Lungwort, Sweet WilsonBased on genetic studies the Saxifraga genus has been split up, with some species remaining in Saxifraga, one being classified in the monotypic genus Cascadia, and 47 species in the new genus Micranthes, although more recent work has some authorities placing a few species in Hydatica rather than Micranthes. There are only eight (or fewer) native North American Saxifraga species remaining; there are over forty in Micranthes. The easiest diagnostic for Micranthes vs Saxifraga is that the former (Micranthes)has only basal leaves (or any cauline leaves may be crowded at the bottom of the stem,) while the latter (Saxifraga) will also have cauline leaves, although they may be very small.

Micranthes virginiensis, formerly classified as Saxifraga virginiensis, is one of the more widely distributed species in the genus, being found in almost all of the eastern United States and Canada. It grows on rock outcrops and moist forest slopes, and, as indicated by the common name, blooms relatively early in spring.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Early Saxifrage, Virginia Saxifrage, Everlasting, Lungwort, Sweet Wilson
Saxifrage (Alpine Saxifrage)Micranthes micranthidifolia
(Native)
Brook Lettuce, Mountain Lettuce, Branch Lettuce, Lettuceleaf Saxifrage, Deer TongueBased on genetic studies the Saxifraga genus has been split up, with some species remaining in Saxifraga, one being classified in the monotypic genus Cascadia, and 47 species in the new genus Micranthes. The easiest diagnostic for Micranthes vs Saxifraga is that the former has only basal leaves (or any cauline leaves may be crowded at the bottom of the stem,) while the latter (Saxifraga) will also have cauline leaves, although they may be very small.

Brook Lettuce, formerly Saxifraga micranthidifolia, is now classified as Micranthes micranthidifolia. It grows in the wet soils of mountain brook beds and rocky seeps in the central and southern Appalachian mountains, from southern Pennsylvania southward to north Georgia and South Carolina. It continues to be used as a leafy green in spring salads, as most of the common names imply.

Found in:
GA, KY, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV, GS
Brook Lettuce, Mountain Lettuce, Branch Lettuce,  Lettuceleaf Saxifrage, Deer Tongue
Sea PurslaneSesuvium portulacastrum
(Native)
Sea Purslane, Sea Pickle, Shoreline SeapurslaneThis is a prostrate, succulent herbaceous plant of dunes and beaches along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico and the southeastern Atlantic Coast. The stems and leaves are edible, and have a salty pickel-like flavor, giving it the alternate common name of Sea Pickle.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, NC, PA, SC, TX
Sea Purslane, Sea Pickle, Shoreline Seapurslane
SelfhealPrunella vulgaris
(Native)
Heal-All, Common SelfhealNorth Georgia, Oct 2004. Used as herbal remedy for throat ailmentsHeal-All, Common Selfheal
SennaSenna marilandica
(Native)
Southern Wild SennaMember of the pea family with pinnate leaf structure and dense flower clusters in the leaf axils in the upper part of the plant.Southern Wild Senna
SennaSenna obtusifolia
(Native)
Sicklepod, Sicklepod Senna, Java Bean, Blunt-leaf Senna, Chinese Senna, Arsenic WeedSynonym: Cassia obtusifolia

ITIS and USDA list Senna obtusifolia as native to much of the eastern United States, especially the southern part, and is introduced in Hawaii as well as in California, where it is found only in Riverside County. It is classified as a Rare plant in Indiana, but is considered weedy or invasive in other parts of the country, including California, where it is classified as a Noxious Weed. It is also found in South America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Wikipedia indicates that it is native to China. The USDA Plants Database indicates that 59 species of Senna are found in North America; most of those in the continental United States are in the southwest (including the area around Texas in that categorization.)

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Sicklepod, Sicklepod Senna, Java Bean, Blunt-leaf Senna, Chinese Senna, Arsenic Weed
Serviceberry, Juneberry, ShadbushAmelanchier laevis
(Native)
Allegheny Serviceberry, Smooth ServiceberryThe taxonomy of Amelanchier is a very confusing, not only to me but also to professionals. The genus has been divided into as few as 6 species and as many as 33. The USDA Plants Database currently lists 20 species with 28 total taxa. The University of Maine Department of Biological Sciences has excellent information about Amelanchier where they list 16 species and and 19 total taxa. ITIS lists 19 species.

Several Amelanchier are shrubs which do not achieve tree status, but A. laevis can be found as a shrub or a tree up to 25 feet tall. Most species are more or less hairy in their inflorescence and leaves, but A. laevis earns its Smooth Serviceberry common name (and its laevis species epithet) by being mostly hairless in those features. Another differentiator among species is petal length, width, and shape. This species has fairly long petals which are a bit broader relative to their length than most other regional serviceberries, and are normally oblong in shape.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Allegheny Serviceberry, Smooth Serviceberry
Serviceberry, Juneberry, ShadbushAmelanchier utahensis
(Native)
Utah Serviceberry, Pale Serviceberry, Western ServiceberryThe taxonomy of Amelanchier is a very confusing, not only to me but also to professionals. The genus has been divided into as few as 6 species and as many as 33. The USDA Plants Database currently lists 20 species with 28 total taxa. The University of Maine Department of Biological Sciences has excellent information about Amelanchier where they list 16 species and and 19 total taxa. ITIS lists 19 species.

While the USDA lists four species of Amelanchier in Idaho, where these photos were taken, ITIS and the University of Maine have one of those classified as a A. alnifolia var. pumila, and another as a synonym of A. utahensis. Both of these species are relatively short and will usually have multiple stems, so most consider these to be shrubs rather than trees. A. utahensis -Utah Serviceberry - can be up to 15 feet tall. It will have 2 to 5 styles (A. alnifolia - Dwarf Shadbush - will have 4 or 5), 10 to 18 stamens (Dwarf Shadbush has 12 to 15), and the twigs are hairy at flowering and frequently so after flowering, while those of Dwarf Shadbush are usually without hairs at flowering. The final characteristic that swayed me to Utah Serviceberry for this identification are the number of lateral veins in the leaves. Utah Serviceberry has 7 to 13 (or more), while Dwarf shadbush will have 7 to 9.

The fruit of Utah Serviceberry is edible, and is an important food for wildlife, as are the leaves. The foliage of this species shows up earlier than many other plants, providing browse early relatively early in the year.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, TX, UT, WA, WY
Utah Serviceberry, Pale Serviceberry, Western Serviceberry
Shadow WitchPonthieva racemosa
(Native)
Shadow Witch Orchid, Hairy Shadow Witch, Racemose PonthievaWhile there are more than 25 Pontheiva species - Shadow Witch Orchids - in the world, there are only 3 found in the United States and its territories. One of them is found only in Puerto Rico, and one only in Florida. The third one, Ponthieva racemosa is found only in 10 southeastern states (although it is also found in Central and South America as well.) As far as I can tell, Ponthieva racemosa is protected in at least 6 or 7 of the states in which it has been recorded due to its rarity and the fragility of its habitat. While I can't find official indication of a protected status in Georgia and Texas, it is found only in a few locations in those states. It grows in moist areas almost exclusively over calcareous rock - the photos here were taken in a very wet area of thin soils over limestone in a cedar glade. It's unlikely that you'll find it blooming in drought years.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA
Shadow Witch Orchid, Hairy Shadow Witch, Racemose Ponthieva
SherardiaSherardia arvensis
(Introduced)
Field Madder, blue fieldmadder, SpurwortThis is the only species in the Sherardia genus found in the United States. While the USDA Plants database does not list it as an invasive species, that is probably because of relatively low economic impact; it is clearly spreading.

The plant grows 4 to 16 inches tall, but will sprawl and form mats with the flowers only a few inches above the ground.

Found in: AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Field Madder, blue fieldmadder, Spurwort
Shooting StarDodecatheon meadia
(Native)
Shooting Star, Prairie Pointers, Eastern Shooting Star, Pride of Ohio, RoosterheadsDodecatheon is a genus of 15 to 17 species of North America, northern Mexico, and far eastern Russia, unless you subscribe to the recent move to include Dodecatheon within Primula (Primrose). I am leaving Dodecatheon as a separate genus from Primula on USWildflowers.com for now, since a more widely circumscribed Primula will be polyphyletic, and therefore likely to change in the future. Also by moving them to the Primrose genus we lose the genus-level "Shooting Star" name, probably more pertinent to an amateur like myself than the scientific classification. An accepted synonym is Primula meadia.

Most of the Dodecatheon species are found in the western half of the United States, with only D. amethystinum, D. frenchii and the species presented here, D. meadia, being found east of the Mississippi River. The range of the much more widely distributed D. meadia completely overlaps the range of those other two species, and is found in forests, prairies, and cliffs of 26 eastern and midwestern states, blooming from spring through early summer. It is not known in New England.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV, GS
Shooting Star, Prairie Pointers, Eastern Shooting Star, Pride of Ohio, Roosterheads
ShortiaShortia galacifolia
(Native)
Oconee Bells, Acony Bell, Southern Oconee-bells, Northern Oconee-bells, ShortiaThere are five or six species in the Shortia genus, but just this one in North America, according to Flora of North America. The other species are native to Asia, and apparently have not naturalized in North America. Shortia galacifolia is a rare plant, protected as Endangered in both Georgia and North Carolina, and listed as a federal species of concern. There are two varieties - var. brevistyla (which, as implied by the variety name, has shorter styles, as well as shorter corolla lobes) is found only in McDowell County, NC (Northern Oconee-bells.) Var. galacifolia (Southern Oconee-bells) is found in 1 county in Georgia, 2 or 3 counties in South Carolina, and a few counties in North Carolina. There are reports of naturalized populations in Tennessee and Virginia. There is also a very recent discovery of the plant in DeKalb County, Alabama, which has not yet (as of late 2012) been determined as native or naturalized. It grows along streambanks and other moist slopes in areas with high rainfall, usually under the shade of Rhododendron.

The story of the discovery and rediscovery of this rare plant is interesting - its foliage was initially found by botanist Andre Michaux in 1788, and those specimens were discovered in Michaux's native France by American botanist Asa Gray in 1839. Gray, working on The Flora of North America, determined to find this plant, which he named after American botanist Charles Short. Due to a different interpretation of Michaux's labelling the specimen as from the "high mountains of Carolina" in 1843 Gray spent several months searching in areas above 5,000' elevation, well above where it is found. Several other botanists joined the search in subsequent years. Finally, in 1877, 17 year old George Hyams found the plant, which he didn't recognize, along the Catawba River in North Carolina. His father was an amateur botanist, and sent a specimen to a friend, who in turn informed Asa Gray of the discovery. In 1879 an expedition led by Gray to personally see the plant. In 1888 botanist Charles Sargent found the plant in the area where Michaux first found it, in an area that was inundated in 1973 by the waters of Lake Jocassee, which was built by Duke Power.

Found in:
AL, GA, NC, SC, TN, VA
Oconee Bells, Acony Bell, Southern Oconee-bells, Northern Oconee-bells, Shortia
Showy orchis, GalearisGalearis spectabilis
(Native)
Showy Orchis, Showy Orchid, Purple-hooded Orchid, Gay Orchid, Purple Orchis, Two-leaved orchisGalearis is a small genus found in eastern North America and east Asia. At its narrowest circumscription it has 2 species, 1 in Asia and the species presented here, Galearis spectabilis (formerly known as Orchis spectabilis.) At its broadest circumscription it contains 10 species, some moved known in North America and moved into the genus from such genera as Amerorchis and Neolindleya, as well as several newly described and/or reclassified species in east Asia.

Galearis spectabilis is found in moist woods of all states east of the Mississippi River except Florida, as well as Minnesota and 6 other states west of the Mississippi. It is also found in Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick in Canada. This plant was formerly classified as Orchis spectabilis.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Showy Orchis, Showy Orchid, Purple-hooded Orchid, Gay Orchid, Purple Orchis, Two-leaved orchis
Shrubby CinquefoilDasiphora fruticosa
(Native)
Shrubby Cinquefoil, Shrubby Five-finger, Golden Hardhack

Dasiphora as currently defined is a small genus of about a dozen species, mostly native to Asia. The single species native to North America is this one, Dasiphora fruticosa. Dasiphora (Shrubby Cinquefoil) has been included in Potentilla (Cinquefoil) in the past, but almost all botanists have agreed for a long time that separating the shrubby from the herbaceous Cinquefoils is appropriate, and recent molecular analysis has confirmed that decision.

Dasiphora fruticosa is a plant of Eurasia as well as being native to western and northern North America excluding most of the Great Plains and the Southeast. In the east it ranges only as far south as northern New Jersey. The report of its presence in North Carolina is likely mistaken; those records were historic (1901), with no specimens or corroborating documentation preserved. While it seems to prefer wet to even swampy locations, it can grow in a variety of habitats. Due to variations in parts of the world, some botanists have treated members of this species as two species (the other being D. floribunda) and some include subspecies classification - ssp. floribunda would be our plant.
Synonym: Potentilla fruticosa

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, ID, IL, IN, MA, ME, MI, MN, MT, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, WY
Shrubby Cinquefoil, Shrubby Five-finger, Golden Hardhack
SilverbellHalesia tetraptera
(Native)
Mountain Silverbell, Carolina Silverbell, 4-wing SilverbellHalesia tetraptera is a tree with white bell-shaped flowers that persist for about a week in the springtime. Depending on your choice of authority, there are two or three species of Halesia. H. tetraptera, H. carolina, and H. diptera are recognized by the USDA and , but most authorities seem to now classify what was H. Carolina as a subspecies of H. tetraptera. H. diptera, according to an article at Virginia Tech, is not a mountain species and is not found in North Georgia.

I'm breaking with my normal stance of considering ITIS to be authoritative on the valid classification because the following (and others) have chosen to classify H. carolina as a synonym of H. tetraptera.
  • Vanderbilt University
  • NC State University
  • Ohio State University
  • Virginia Tech
  • Richard Ware of the Georgia Botanical Society


H. tetraptera var tetraptera is a smaller tree to 35'. H. tetraptera var monticola can be over 100'. The tree we photographed was a small tree, but since it was clearly a young tree, the height was not indicative of the particular subspecies.
Mountain Silverbell, Carolina Silverbell, 4-wing Silverbell
SkullcapScutellaria ovata
(Native)
Heartleaf skullcapHairy, square-stemmed plant with blue to violet blossom with white corolla base. Leaves have cordate base attached to long petiole.Heartleaf skullcap
SkullcapScutellaria pseudoserrata
(Native)
Southern Showy Skullcap, Falseteeth skullcapThere are 45 species of Scutellaria found in United States, 42 of which are native. At least one Scutellaria species is found in every state except Hawaii. S. pseudoserrata is found in 5 southern states - Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Similar species are S. elliptica, which has blue to violet flowers with white markings and hairy leaves, S. montana, which is almost entirely white with a lavender lower lip, and S. serrata, which may not have the distinct dark lavender lines exhibited by S. Pseudoserrata near the center of the lower lip.
Southern Showy Skullcap, Falseteeth skullcap
SkullcapScutellaria integrifolia
(Native)
Helmet Flower, Hissopleaf Skullcap, Helmet Skullcap, Hyssop SkullcapScutellaria integrifolia is an early summer wildflower found in fields and open woods. It is usually between 9 inches and 2 feet tall, and may have a branch or two in the stem. The stem and branches are terminated with clusters of blue, pink, or occasionally white flowers.

Endangered in Connecticut and New York, it is found in 23 of our eastern states
Helmet Flower, Hissopleaf Skullcap, Helmet Skullcap, Hyssop Skullcap
SkullcapScutellaria angustifolia
(Native)
Narrowleaf Skullcap, Small-flowered SkullcapI had difficulty identifying this species of Scutellaria. It was clearly a Skullcap based on the ridge atop the calyx - quite distinct in all the photos. There are five species of Scutellaria in Idaho, but three were quickly eliminated due to leaf structure and flower color. That left me with Scutellaria angustifolia - Narrowleaf Skullcap - and the very similar Scutellaria antirrhinoides - Snapdragon Skullcap. Both species are known in Adams County where I found these plants. S. antirrhinoides is a smaller plant with a shorter corolla, but that's difficult without a side by side comparison or measurements. In addition, S. angustifolia ssp. micrantha is smaller than ssp. angustifolia, the one I believe this to be. S. antirrhinoides also has more, longer hairs in a throat that is almost closed. The feature that made me decide this must be S. angustifolia is the lighter patch on the lower lip. In the photos and descriptions I've found that is a much more pronounced white in S. antirrhinoides, perhaps with some mottling, while in S. angustifolia the lighter coloration is more likely to be a pair of lighter blue streaks rather than distinctly white. I haven't found confirmation of the consistency of those characteristics.

Found in:
ID, NV, OR, UT, WA
Narrowleaf Skullcap, Small-flowered Skullcap
SkullcapScutellaria parvula
(Native)
Small Skullcap, Dwarf Skullcap, Little SkullcapScutellaria is a large genus, with over 300 species recognized worldwide. There are about 45 species of Scutellaria found in United States, over 40 of which are native. At least one Scutellaria species is found in every state except Hawaii. Scutellaria parvula is found throughout the eastern half of the United States except for New Hampshire and Rhode Island (LBJ Wildflower Center shows it in those two states, but several other reliable sources indicate it is not found there. It is also found in most of the eastern Canadian provinces. Small Skullcap is found in areas of shallow soil in cedar glades, prairies, and woods.

There are three commonly accepted varieties of Scutellaria parvula which are distinguished by the type and location of hairs on the plant.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Small Skullcap, Dwarf Skullcap, Little Skullcap
SkullcapScutellaria elliptica
(Native)
Hairy SkullcapScutellaria is a large genus, with over 300 species recognized worldwide. There are about 45 species of Scutellaria found in United States, over 40 of which are native. At least one Scutellaria species is found in every state except Hawaii. Scutellaria elliptica is found in 25 states from New York to Texas.

My identification of this plant has a slightly lower level of confidence than most that I choose to publish (it is not a scientific measure of level of confidence - just a gut feel.) The color pattern on the flowers does not match that of many photographs I have found on the Internet and identified as Scutellaria elliptica, although that could be just variability. While it matches the description found in Wildflowers of Tennessee the Ohio Valley and the Southern Appalachians, Weakley's key to Scutellaria describes S. elliptica var. elliptica as having glandless leaves, and my photos show glands on the upper surface of at least the leaves from which the inflorescences arise (a characteristic of S. pseudoserrata.) I believe this to be S. elliptica var. hirsuta because:
  • The stem hairs seem longer than what is described for var. elliptica and some stem hairs are glandular.
  • Weakley doesn't mention leaf surface for var. hirsuta, and since hirsuta is a more glandular variety, it is reasonable that it could have glandular leaf hairs while var. elliptica does not.


Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Hairy Skullcap
SmartweedPersicaria amphibia
(Native)
Water Knotweed, Swamp Smartweed, Water SmartweedThe Polygonum genus has recently been split into multiple genera, with about 30 species being reclassified in the genus Persicaria. I am following the lead of others in changing this from Polygonum amphibium to Persicaria amphibia. The genus common name for Persicaria is now "Smartweed"; Polygonum had been "Knotweed". The text imbedded in the photos will continue to reflect the old classification.

There are aquatic and terrestrial varieties of Persicaria amphibia; the aquatic variety is more widespread than the terrestrial variety than the terrestrial variety, with the terrestrial variety not generally being found in the Southeast. Leaves are alternate and lanceolate.
Water Knotweed, Swamp Smartweed, Water Smartweed
SmartweedPersicaria virginiana
(Native)
Virginia Knotweed, JumpseedThe Polygonum genus has recently been split into multiple genera, with about 30 species being reclassified in the genus Persicaria. I am following the lead of others in changing this from Polygonum virginianum to Persicaria virginiana. The genus common name for Persicaria is now "Smartweed"; Polygonum had been "Knotweed". The text imbedded in the photos will continue to reflect the old classification.

Persicaria virginiana is a late summer plant mostly of most woodlands, found in most of the eastern half of the United States.
Virginia Knotweed, Jumpseed
SmartweedPersicaria punctata
(Native)
Dotted Smartweed, Dotted Knotweed, Water Smartweed
The USDA Plants Database lists 80 species of Polygonum in the United States. However, this genus has recently had 30 species split off into the new Persicaria genus, and several other species moved into Fallopia. Persicaria punctata (Polygonum punctatum) is one of the species of Perisicaria native to the United States, although it is introduced rather than native in several states - Idaho, Montana, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Hawaii. The only states where it is not found Nevada and Alaska. (The USDA Plants Database map does not show it in Utah, but BONAP, which is likely more current, does show it there. However Flora of North America does not list it Utah, so that presence remains questionable in my mind. It is found in much of Canada.

A key identification feature are the punctate dots or dotted glands on various parts of the inflorescence and perhaps the stem. Most Persicaria species do not have these. A similar species with these punctate dots is Persicaria hydropiper (Polygonum hydropiper) - Marsh-pepper Smartweed - a species introduced from Europe. It must have been an early introduction, because there are reports of its use by native Americans both as a drug for certain ailments and as a food. P. hydropiper has reddish stems vs green for P. punctata, and the achenes of the introduced plant are reported to be dull and roughened versus the smooth, shiny achenes of the native P. punctata.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Dotted Smartweed, Dotted Knotweed, Water Smartweed
SneezeweedHelenium amarum
(Native)
Bitterweed, Bitter Sneezeweed, YellowdicksCommon weed found in meadows, along roadsides, and other disturbed areas. Some authorities consider it to be weedy or invasive. If cows eat them their milk will have a bitter taste. This plant is a native of the United States.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI
Bitterweed, Bitter Sneezeweed, Yellowdicks
SneezeweedHelenium flexuosum
(Native)
Purple-headed Sneezeweed, Purplehead SneezeweedNative to a large part of the United States, Helenium flexuosum has been introduced to and naturalized in parts of eastern Canada. It is a plant growing in damp areas up to about 3 feet tall, branching in the upper part of the plant. The blossoms terminate these stems.

Synonym: Helenium nudiflorum

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Purple-headed Sneezeweed, Purplehead Sneezeweed
SneezeweedHelenium autumnale
(Native)
Autumn Sneezeweed, Common Sneezeweed, False Sunflower, Staggerwort, Yellow StarHelenium autumnale is the most widely distributed of the eighteen North American Sneezeweeds, being found in all but three states in the U.S. - missing in Hawaii, Alaska, and New Hampshire. While it is native to the United States and much of Canada, it is naturalized in the parts of New England where it is now found. It grows in wet soils, flowering from late summer thru mid-autumn.

Sneezeweeds do not get that name from causing hay fever - the leaves were once made into a snuff that was used to cause sneezing, either expelling evil spirits or relieving congestion - pick the lore you prefer. Interestingly in large quantities all parts of the plant can be poisonous to humans.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Autumn Sneezeweed, Common Sneezeweed, False Sunflower, Staggerwort, Yellow Star
Snow-wreathNeviusia alabamensis
(Native)
Alabama Snow-wreathAlabama Snow-wreath is a rare decidous shrub with a blackberry-like stem, but the snow-wreath is thornless. It's a native plant found only in 6 states, and is listed as Threatened in its namesake Alabama, in Tennessee, and in Georgia, where it is found only in Walker County.Alabama Snow-wreath
SnowberrySymphoricarpos albus
(Native)
Common Snowberry, Upright SnowberrySymphoricarpos albus has two varieties - var. albus and var. laevigatus. Var. albus is more widely distributed, being found in most of the northern half of the United States and in the Rocky Mountains south to New Mexico, as well as most of Canada. Var. laevigatus is found in a subset of those states, plus California and Idaho. The plant is Endangered or Threatened in Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, and Massachusetts, and is Extirpated in Ohio.

The white fruits, from which the common name is derived, are larger than the blossoms; unfortunately I don't have photos of the fruit, but you can view some at Turner Photographics as well as other places on the Internet.

Found in:
AK, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, IA, ID, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Common Snowberry, Upright Snowberry
Snowberry, WintergreenGaultheria procumbens
(Native)
Eastern Teaberry, American Wintergreen, CheckerberryWhile Gaultheria is a large genus with something over 115 species worldwide, there are only 6 species in North America. Of those six species, four are exclusively western species (1 found only in Alaska), and one (G. hispidula) is found across the breadth of Canada, in three counties of Idaho and Washington, and in the northeastern United States from Minnesota east to the Atlantic coast and south only into eastern West Virginia.

Gaultheria procumbens - the species presented here - is the sixth of those North American species, and is exclusively an eastern species. It is found as far west as Minnesota and Manitoba, Canada ranging eastward to the Atlantic ocean, and southward into mountains of Alabama, Georgia, and possibly South Carolina, growing in moist conifer and deciduous forests, clearings, and bogs, blooming in the summer (June - August.) While a pretty common species overall, it is Endangered in Illinois.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Eastern Teaberry, American Wintergreen, Checkerberry
SoapwortVaccaria hispanica
(Introduced)
Cowcockle, Cow Soapwort, CowherbVaccaria hispanica is either the only species in the genus, and has four subspecies, or, as some authorities say, is one of four species in the Vaccaria genus. In either case, it is a European import, and has been historically found in all but two states - Georgia and North Carolina. However, it is apparently in decline and may now be extirpated in several states. It has an affinity to open fields and waste areas. It grows in pastures, and reportedly was used as fodder, giving the cow reference both in the common name, and in the genus name - vacca being Latin for cow. My further speculation - the Chinese have used its seeds medicinally to promote lactation; that could be a boon to those with a dairy cow; it may have been used in their fodder.

Vaccaria has been included in the genus Saponaria by some authorities.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Cowcockle, Cow Soapwort, Cowherb
SoapwortSaponaria officinalis
(Introduced)
Bouncing Bet, Common Soapwort, Crow Soap, Wild Sweet William, SoapweedSaponaria is a medium-sized genus of about 40 species worldwide, but only 2 of them are found in North America; both of those are non-native. The one presented here is Saponaria officinalis, found in every state except Alaska and Hawaii. The other is Saponaria ocymoides (Rock Soapwort), which is a smaller, branching plant, frequently with reclining stems, is found only in a few states, and rarely persists long once it escapes the garden; both plants have been frequently used in gardens.

Saponaria species contain saponin, which is toxic. The leaves and roots of Saponaria officinalis have been used in the past to make a liquid soap by soaking or boiling them in water.

Found in:


Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, GS
Bouncing Bet, Common Soapwort, Crow Soap, Wild Sweet William, Soapweed
Solomon's Seal Polygonatum biflorum
(Native)
Smooth Solomon's SealSmooth Solomon's seal (P. biflorum) is 1 to 4 feet tall, arching, and is found in rich moist forests thoughout the eastern two-thirds of the United States and Canada. Similar species Hairy Solomon's seal (P. pubescens), has hairy veins on the underside of the leaf.

The name Solomon's Seal references the circular scars on the rhizome left by each year's flower stalk. I have not personally observed this, nor do I know what the seal of King Solomon looked like.
Smooth Solomon's Seal
SpeedwellVeronica persica
(Introduced)
Bird's Eye Speedwell, Persian Speedwell, Birdeye Speedwell, Winter SpeedwellMay be V. arvensis, but longer flower pedicels imply V. persica, although USDA Plants Database doesn't list V. persica in Walker County, GA as of 03/28/2009. It is a weedy plant, although it apparently is not invasive enough to be restricted in any state. See Speedwell identification for more information on my identification process for this species.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Bird's Eye Speedwell, Persian Speedwell, Birdeye Speedwell, Winter Speedwell
SpeedwellVeronica anagallis-aquatica
(Introduced)
Water Speedwell, Sessile Water-speedwell, Brook-pimpernell, Blue Water SpeedwellThis is a widely distributed Speedwell, being recorded in all but 5 states. It is also found in most of Canada. It is protected as Endangered or Threatened in Indiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Tennessee.

There is some disagreement as to whether or not V. anagallis-aquatica is native to North America - USDA Plants Database lists it as native in the lower 48 and Canada, but introduced in Alaska. Calflora lists it as introduced in California and widely so in North America - native to Europe. USDA GRIN lists it as native to Europe, Asia, and South America, but not to North America. Flora of Missouri lists it as Introduced.

In addition to native status, the classification of plants included in this genus is debated. There are about 15 synonyms of Veronica anagallis-aquatica. Some experts, including the USDA Plants Database, consider Veronica catenata to be a separate species, while others consider it to be part of Veronica anagallis-aquatica. Veronica catenata is widely considered a native species, and my guess is that is why some also consider V. anagallis-aquatica to be a native plant. Those that consider V. catenata to be a separate species likely classify V. anagallis-aquatica as Introduced. However, some authorities question the native status of V. catenata as well (USDA Germplasm Resources Information Network). I am listing this plant as Introduced, but the USDA map shown on this site will show it as Native to the lower 48.

The Endangered status in three states is based on inclusion of V. catenata within V. anagallis-aquatica.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Water Speedwell, Sessile Water-speedwell, Brook-pimpernell, Blue Water Speedwell
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SpicebushLindera benzoin
(Native)
Northern Spicebush, Wild Allspice, Common SpicebushLindera benzoin is a shrub of moist forest understories, growing to 15-20 feet tall. You can make tea from the aromatic leaves and twigs.Northern Spicebush, Wild Allspice, Common Spicebush
SpiderwortTradescantia subaspera
(Native)
Zigzag Spiderwort, Wideleaf SpiderwortWhile spiderworts are found in all but 5 states, Tradescantia subaspera is found only in 18 states in the eastern half of the United States. The lovely 3-petaled blossoms melt away when the sun gets on them. According to a quote from 1894 wildflower author George Iles, found at Arthur Lee Jacobson's website, the "Spiderwort" name comes from the ability to draw the sun-melted blossoms out into long threads like a spider's web.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, PA*, SC, TN, VA, WV

*While the USDA Plants Database and others list Tradescantia subaspera as being found in Pennsylvania, most recent research, including Flora of North America and BONAP, imply there are no verifiable records of its presence.
Zigzag Spiderwort, Wideleaf Spiderwort
SpiderwortTradescantia virginiana
(Native)
Virginia SpiderwortVirginia SpiderwortVirginia Spiderwort
SpindletreeEuonymus americanus
(Native)
Bursting Heart, Hearts-a-bustin', Strawberry Bush.E. americanus is a shrub with thin stems and opposing, shallowly serrated leaves. The bush grows from 4 to 6 feet tall. Fruit is a red 4-lobed capsule. Each lobe splits open in the autumn, giving the name Bursting Heart.

A similar but taller and more northern species is Euonymous atropurpureus - Burningbush.

Thanks to @scgardeningnews for tweeting the South Carolina Native Plant Society Plant Identification website where I saw a photo that made this identification for me.
Bursting Heart, Hearts-a-bustin', Strawberry Bush.
SpindletreeEuonymus atropurpureus
(Native)
Burningbush, Eastern Wahoo, Spindle Tree, Indian Arrow-WoodWhile Burningbush is the common name listed by the USDA, it is probably more commonly known as Eastern Wahoo. It grows as a shrub or small tree found throughout the eastern and central United States except for Vermont. It is found as far west as Montana. Synonyms are E. carolinensis & E. latifolius.

Wahoo Bark is an herbal medicine that is used for constipation and gall bladder problems, according to Mercy Hospitals.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Burningbush,  Eastern Wahoo, Spindle Tree, Indian Arrow-Wood
SpiraeaSpiraea alba
(Native)
White Meadowsweet, Narrowleaf Meadowsweet, Eastern Meadowsweet, Broadleaf MeadowsweetSpiraea is a genus of 100 to 120 species of shrubs found mostly in the northern hemisphere; nearly 20 are found in North America. Spiraea alba, White Meadowsweet, is found in all of the southern tier of the Canadian provinces, except British Columbia, and in the United States, it is primarily found in the north-central and northeast states, with its range extending south in the Appalachians as far south as Georgia.

There are two varieties of Spiraea alba - var. alba and var. latifolia. The key differentiator is the leaf size; in var. alba the leaf is 3 to 4 times longer than it is wide (Narrowleaf Meadowsweet), and in var. latifolia the leaf is only 2 to 3 times longer than it is wide (Broadleaf Meadowsweet.) However, Some authorities consider var. latifolia to be a separate species - Spiraea latifolia. Var. latifolia prefers the drier habitat of meadows, fields, and forest margins, and can be found at higher elevations, up to 4000 feet. Var. alba is found at lower elevations, to about 1,000 feet, and can be found in wetlands, river and lake edges, and moist open sites. The plants on this page were photographed near the waters edge on islands in Lake Huron in Ontario, Canada. In areas where both varieties are found, they will hybridize.

Spiraea alba is listed as Endangered in Kentucky and Tennessee, Special Concern in Georgia (as Spiraea latifolia.)

Found in:
CT, DC, DE, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
White Meadowsweet, Narrowleaf Meadowsweet, Eastern Meadowsweet, Broadleaf Meadowsweet
SpleenwortAsplenium rhizophyllum
(Native)
Walking Fern, American Walking FernThere are 28 Spleenworts - the species in the Asplenium genus - found in the United States. Most of these have pinnatifid leaves. Asplenium rhizophyllum is one of the 3 species without those pinnatifid leaves. It is unique in the United States and with an Asian sister plant (A. ruprechtii) are distinctive in the genus in that the leaftips will root, forming sometimes dense clonal patches of the plant. This feature has led some authorities to classify those two species in their own genus, Camptosorus, so a synonym for this plant is Camptosorus rhizophyllus. The plant typically grows in shady areas on mossy boulders and ledges.

This plant is considered rare in much of its range, and enjoys protection in several states (MI, NH, NY, RI, and, I think, NC.) It is protected and possibly extirpate in Maine.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Walking Fern, American Walking Fern
Spreading PogoniaCleistesiopsis bifaria
(Native)
Upland Spreading Pogonia, Appalachian Small Spreading Pogonia, Small Spreading Pogonia, Small Rosebud Orchid, Funnel Crestsyn. Cleistes bifaria, syn. Cleistes divaricata var. bifaria. One only needs to look at the science of botanical classification to understand what a slippery slope onto which they've stepped when they put their faith in science. This plant was originally classified in the Arethusa genus by Linnaeus. That genus was split up (there is now only 1 species left in Arethusa), and Spreading Pogonia wound up in the Pogonia genus. In 1922 that genus was reworked, and this plant was placed in Cleistes as Cleistes divaricata (Cleistes comes from the Greek word kleistos - closed - which references the lip and petals that separate only near the tip, with most of the corolla length enclosed as a tube.) In 1946 it was recognized that distinct varieties were needed to properly define the plant, and Cleistes divaricata var. bifaria was born. In 1992 the Spreading Pogonia varieties were determined to be distinct enough that the bifaria variety was elevated to species status as Cleisted bifaria. In 2004 a study was published which led to the proposed separation of the montane (Upland Spreading Pogonia) and coastal plain (Coastal Plain Spreading Pogonia) plants previously considered to be Cleistes bifaria (distinguished from Cleistes divaricata primarily by size of various parts.) Scent is the key diagnostic between the odorless montane species Cleistes bifaria and the vanilla-scented coastal plain plants placed into the new species Cleistes oricamporum, formalized in 2009. However, these three North American species had some noteworthy differences from the South American members of the species (which significantly outnumbered the N.A. species), and in 2009 the name Cleistesiopsis ("like Cleistes") was formally introduced, and many authorities have lined up with that new name.

Cleistesiopsis bifaria is a plant of moist to moderately dry meadows and grassy openings of the mountains and Piedmont of the southeast - as far north as West Virginia and southward into northern Alabama and Georgia. Since some authorities have not yet aligned with the separation of the C. oricamporum species, including the USDA whose map I use, I am continuing to list this in AL, FL, LA, MS, and TX, states which would not include Cleistesiopsis bifaria, but would include Clestesiopsis oricamporum. Since Upland Spreading Pogonia best describes the narrower definition of C. bifaria, I am choosing to use that common name rather than the perhaps more widely used Small Spreading Pogonia.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV, GS
Upland Spreading Pogonia, Appalachian Small Spreading Pogonia, Small Spreading Pogonia, Small Rosebud Orchid, Funnel Crest
Spring BeautyClaytonia caroliniana
(Native)
Carolina Spring Beauty, Wide-leaved Spring Beauty
Claytonia is a relatively small genus of 26 species, with all but one of those species found in North America. Most of those species are in the western half of the United States, but a few are found in the east as well.

Carolina Spring Beauty is one of the early eastern wildflowers, normally blooming March through early May, although you may catch a blossom opening in late February in some locations. Claytonia caroliniana has a pair of stem leaves which are lanceolate-ovate on a distinct petiole. Similar Virginia Spring Beauty - C. virginiana - has narrow, grass-like leaves narrowing into an indistinct petiole.

Found in:
AR, CT, GA, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Carolina Spring Beauty, Wide-leaved Spring Beauty
Spring BeautyClaytonia virginica
(Native)
Virginia Spring Beauty, Narrow-leaved Spring BeautyEarly spring wildflower that can be 4 to 12 inches tall. Very similar to Carolina Spring Beauty - C. caroliniana - with the primary differentiator being the leaf shape.

It is protected in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Rhode Island as an endangered or historical species, according to the USDA Plants Database.
Virginia Spring Beauty, Narrow-leaved Spring Beauty
Spring BeautyClaytonia perfoliata
(Native)
Miner's Lettuce, Indian Lettuce, Winter PurslaneOne or more of the 28 North American species of Claytonia (Spring Beauty) are found in every state except Florida, Hawaii, and North Dakota. This species, Claytonia perfoliata, is primarily a western species, although disjunct populations have been reported in New Hampshire and Georgia. The USDA Plants Database shows it as introduced to Alaska and native to Georgia and New Hampshire, although I'm going to guess that it is likely an introduced species in those states as well. There are three subspecies of C. perfoliata - intermontana, mexicana, and perfoliata. Since ssp. perfoliata is the only one the USDA lists as being found in Idaho, where these photos were taken, it seems likely that these are ssp. perfoliata :-).

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, GA, ID, MT, NH, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY
Miner's Lettuce, Indian Lettuce, Winter Purslane
Spring BeautyClaytonia lanceolata
(Native)
Lanceleaf Spring Beauty, Western Spring Beauty
Claytonia is a relatively small genus of 26 species, with all but one of those species found in North America. Most of those species are in the western half of the United States, but a few are found in the east as well.

Claytonia lanceolata is a small, pretty white, pink, or even orange or yellow wildflower of early spring in the western United States, especially in somewhat higher elevations. A similar species is Claytonia multiscapa - also known as Lanceleaf Spring Beauty. C. multiscapa is not as widely distributed, and is a slightly larger plant with narrower leaves and smaller flowers. It won't be found with pink petals, while C. lanceolata petals may be pink. C. multiscapa will have multiple bracts in the inflorescence, while C. lanceolata will usually have a single bract; sometimes 2. Some authorities have considered C. multiscapa to be part of C. lanceolata and others part of C. flava rather than a separate species. If part of C. flava it would expand the range of that species notably.

Found in:
CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Lanceleaf Spring Beauty, Western Spring Beauty
SpurgeEuphorbia mercurialina
(Native)
Cumberland Spurge, Mercury SpurgeThe Pocket at Pigeon Mountain, Walker County, GA 03/21/2009Cumberland Spurge, Mercury Spurge
SpurgeEuphorbia corollata
(Native)
Flowering Spurge, Blooming Spurge, Emetic RootI have just a slight doubt as to whether this is Euphorbia corollata (Flowering Spurge) or E. pubentissima (False Flowering Spurge,) both of which look almost identical in the photographs I've found, and I have not found a description of E. pubentissima sufficiently detailed to allow me to make a feature by feature comparison. The one observation I had that seemed a possible difference is that many of the site which seemed more authoritative showed E. pubentissima with fewer blossoms terminating the stems; occasionally only one. That, plus the fact that I couldn't find anything that indicates that this is not E. corollata has led me to make the call that this is Flowering Spurge. If anyone can point me to good information on differentiation of these two species, I would greatly appreciate it - email me.

The common name Spurge for members of the Euphorbia species is reported to come from the French word meaning purge - this plant has some strong medicinal and potentially poisonous properties, so do not ingest it. Further, the milky white sap is reported to be highly irritating to the skin, possibly even causing blistering. So carefully inspect it closely; it is an interesting plant.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Flowering Spurge, Blooming Spurge, Emetic Root
SpurgeEuphorbia cyathophora
(Native)
Wild Poinsettia, Mexican Fireplant, Fire on the Mountain, Painted Euphorbia, Desert PoinsettiaThis plant is one of a few Euphorbias called "Wild Poinsettia" as a common name - the well-known Christmas Poinsettia is also a Euphorbia species (E. pulcherimma.) While researching for the species name, I came away confused, but after finding this in the online Flora of China, I understood that confusion: "There has been much confusion in the literature between this and the following species, Euphorbia heterophylla." Based on the Flora of China description, Euphorbia heterophylla may have a pale green marking at the base of the upper leaves where Euphorbia cyathophora has the distinctive red markings which lead to the "Fire on the Mountain" common name. There may also be a color distinction between the glandular stipules on the leaves - brownish on E. cyahtophora, conspicuously purple on E. heterophylla.

This confusion between the two species apparently has led some publications to list Euphorbia heterophylla as a synonym of Euphorbia cyathophora and vice versa, and also to publish photos of one of the species as being the other. Of course, with all this confusion, Flora of China could be incorrect as well. Apparently at least one form or variety of Euphorbia heterophylla - var cyathophora - is what is now classified as the separate species Euphorbia cyathophora.

Euphorbia cyathophora can have either the violin-shaped and ovate leaves shown on the plant here, or long, linear leaves I've seen on other photos. I originally thought this was the easy differentiator between the two species, but from what I have found so far, that was an incorrect assumption.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, FL, GA, HI, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NM, OH, OK, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI
Wild Poinsettia, Mexican Fireplant, Fire on the Mountain, Painted Euphorbia, Desert Poinsettia
SpurgeEuphorbia marginata
(Native)
Snow-on-the-Mountain, Mountain Snow Spurge
Euphorbia is a large genus with around 2000 species worldwide - one of the 3 largest in the world, and nearly 140 in North America. This genus is characterized by its unique pseudoanthium - a floral structure which appears to be a single flower, but is actually an inflorescence of multiple flowers, many of which may be of reduced size. Members of the Aster family (Asteraceae) are the most well known of those with pseudoanthiums (also known as flower heads.) In Euphorbia the pseudoanthium is a cyathium - a cup shaped involucre which contains several to many small male flowers and a single female flower. Several Euphorbia species are also known for their colorful bracts, including the well-known Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima), and the species presented here, Euphorbia marginata.

Although Euphorbia marginata is native to the Great Plains, it is cultivated for its ornamental foliage - the white and green variegated floral bracts. It has escaped from gardens and has naturalized in the United States far outside its native range, although in some areas this annual may survive only as a waif. It flowers from summer into the fall. It has a reputation as being weedy in pastures, largely due to the fact that the milky sap makes the plant bitter, so cattle do not graze it. Since plants around it are grazed off, Euphorbia marginata has little competition. That bitter sap is also poisonous, and can cause notable allergic reaction similar to poison ivy, especially in folks who are alergic to latex.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI, WV, WY
Snow-on-the-Mountain, Mountain Snow Spurge
SquawrootConopholis americana
(Native)
Squawroot, Bear's Purge, Bear CornParisitic plant that makes its living off the roots of oak trees.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Squawroot, Bear's Purge, Bear Corn
St. John's WortHypericum dolabriforme
(Native)
Glade St. John's Wort; Straggling St. JohnswortSome authorities continue to include the Hypericum genus in the plant family Clusiaceae (including the USDA Plants Database,) but relatively recent molecular studies have resulted in establishment of the Hypericaceae family, for which Hypericum is the type genus, although there are at least two other genera in that new classification. It should be noted that at least one of those, the genus Triadenum, is composed of species that have been classified in the genus Hypericum at one time or another, so perhaps the new family Hypericaceae is comprised of what was the Hypericum genus, which is now further broken down into multiple genera.

Hypericum dolabriforme is found only in 5 states, unlike a similar species, Hypericum sphaerocarpum, which is found in 19 states throughout the central portion of the United States, as well as in Ontario, Canada. In addition to likely being less erect, some feature differences between H. dolabriforme and H. sphaerocarpum are noted in the photo descriptions below.

Found in:
AL, GA, IN, KY, TN
Glade St. John's Wort; Straggling St. Johnswort
St. John's WortHypericum punctatum
(Native)
Spotted St. Johnswort, Black Dotted St. JohnswortFound throughout the eastern United States as far west as Texas and Minnesota, this plant is easy to confuse with Common St. Johnswort (Hypericum perforatum,) which has larger flowers, smaller leaves, and leaf dots that are more translucent than those of H. punctatum. H. punctatum also has dots covering more of the petals and sepals. The smaller stems of H. perforatum are also strongly angled and may have small wings on the angles.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Spotted St. Johnswort, Black Dotted St. Johnswort
St. John's WortHypericum gentianoides
(Native)
Pineweed, OrangegrassSome authorities continue to include the Hypericum (St. John's Wort) genus in the plant family Clusiaceae (including the USDA Plants Database,) but relatively recent molecular studies have resulted in establishment of the Hypericaceae family, for which Hypericum is the type genus, although there are at least two other genera in that new classification. It should be noted that at least one of those, the genus Triadenum, is composed of species that have been classified in the genus Hypericum at one time or another, so perhaps the new family Hypericaceae is comprised of what was the Hypericum genus, which is now further broken down into multiple genera. Hypericum is a large genus of nearly 500 species worldwide, over 50 of which are found in North America.

Hypericum gentianoides is a widespread eastern species, found in sandy soils in every state east of the Mississippi as well as all those bordering that river on the west, and in Oklahoma and Texas. It is also found in Ontario and Nova Scotia in Canada. It is listed as Endangered in Iowa.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Pineweed, Orangegrass
St. John's WortHypericum frondosum
(Native)
Cedarglade St. Johnswort, Golden St. Johnswort, Shrubby St. Johnswort
Hypericum is a large genus of around 400 species including herbs, shrubs, and trees. Some authorities (including the USDA Plants Database) continue to include the Hypericum genus in the plant family Clusiaceae, but relatively recent molecular studies have resulted in establishment of the Hypericaceae family, for which Hypericum is the type genus, although there are at least two other genera in that new classification. It should be noted that at least one of those, the genus Triadenum, is composed of species that have been classified in Hypericum at one time or another, so perhaps the new family Hypericaceae is comprised of what was the Hypericum genus, which is now further broken down into multiple genera.

St. Johswort has been used medicinally dating back to ancient Greece. It has been used to treat many conditions such as kidney and lung ailments, insomnia, and to aid wound healing, and is currently used as a dietary supplement to combat depression. However, it has been shown to have detrimental effect on other medications being taken, so it should be used with caution.

Hypericum frondosum is generally a more southeastern plant, and is introduced in the disjoint northern part of its published range. Further, reports from SC and VA may be the similar H. prolificum, which has relatively narrower leaves and shorter petals. The common names applied to Hypericum frondosum further help confuse identification - Shrubby St. Johnswort is also applied to H. prolificum, and Golden, Glade, and Cedarglade St. Johswort is applied to both H. frondosum and H. dolabriforme. It grows in dry cedar glades and limestone barrens.

Found in:
AL, CT, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MA, MS, NC, NY, SC, TN, TX, VA
Cedarglade St. Johnswort, Golden St. Johnswort, Shrubby St. Johnswort
St. Johns WortHypericum hypericoides ssp multicaule
(Native)
Reclining St. Andrew's Cross, Multi-stem St. Andrew's-cross, Low St. John's-wort, Straggling St. John's-wort, Decumbent St. Andrew's CrossHypericum hypericoides ssp. multicaule is classified by most authorities as a separate species of St. John's Wort - Hypericum stragulatum, although ITIS and FNA still list it within the Hypericum hypericoides species. The other (only?) subspecies, Hypericum hypericoides ssp. hypericoides, is a taller, erect plant, up to four feet tall, and has leaves which are widest in the middle, whereas those of ssp. multicaule are widest past the middle toward the end of the leaf. The subspecies name multicaule means many-branched. The species epithet stragulum refers to the reclining, straggling habit of this plant.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Reclining St. Andrew's Cross, Multi-stem St. Andrew's-cross, Low St. John's-wort, Straggling St. John's-wort, Decumbent St. Andrew's Cross
Star GrassHypoxis hirsuta
(Native)
Yellow Star Grass, Common GoldstarYellow Star Grass - Recently moved from Liliaceae family to the Hypoxidaceae (African Potato) family. Many taxonomists don't recognize the Hypoxidaceae family.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Yellow Star Grass, Common Goldstar
Starwort Stellaria pubera
(Native)
Star Chickweed There is at least one Stellaria species found in every state in the United States, as well as in every territory in Canada. Stellaria pubera is a plant of the eastern half of the United States, found in every state east of the Mississippi River except Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. It is also found in a few states west of the Mississippi. It is Endangered in Illinois and New Jersey.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MN, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Star Chickweed
StarwortStellaria media
(Introduced)
Common ChickweedCommon Chickweed is a non-native species which is now found in every state in the United States. It is low-growing, often found in mats of tangle plants in disturbed areas. It can be invasive. Common Chickweed
StinkweedCleomella palmeriana
(Native)
Palmer's Bee Plant, Palmer's Cleomella, Rocky Mountain Stinkweed, Rocky Mountain Rhombopod
Cleomella is a small genus of 10 species, 8 of which are native to the United States, from Texas westward. The other 2 species are found in Mexico. Cleomella species are now classified in the Spiderflower (Cleomaceae) family; they were formerly classified in Capparaceae, but DNA studies have shown that they are more closely related to Brassicaceae than Capparaceae.

Cleomella palmeriana - Palmer's Bee Plant - is found in dry gravelly or sandy flats near the four-corners area of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. It is rare in Arizona. It can be mistaken for the more widely distributed Yellow Bee Plant (Peritoma lutea, syn. Cleome lutea), but is usually a smaller plant than Yellow Bee Plant. Aside from the fruits, Cleomella palmeriana can be differentiated from Cleome lutea by its green sepals which are not connate; those of Cleome lutea are yellow are are connate for about half their length.

Found in:
AZ, CO, NM, UT
Palmer's Bee Plant, Palmer's Cleomella, Rocky Mountain Stinkweed, Rocky Mountain Rhombopod
StitchwortMononeuria patula
(Native)
Lime Barren Sandwort, Glade Sandwort, Pitcher's StitchwortMononeuria patula is a new name for Limestone Barren Sandwort. Until 2014 it was known as Minuartia patula, and before that name it was known as Arenaria patula. Minuartia was a large and varied genus, with over 175 species in the Northern Hemisphere, 33 in North America. Dillenberger and Kadereit, in their 2014 paper Maximum polyphyly: Multiple origins and delimitation with plesiomorphic characters require a new circumscription of Minuartia (Caryophyllaceae), proposed taking most of the species out of Minuartia and placing most of them in 10 additional genera, including Mononeuria, into which the species presented here was placed, along with 8 other species. These 9 species are characterized by being annual or biennial, and have notch-tipped (or at least flattened) petals which are twice as long as the sepals. While most publications still use the Minuartia name, it seems that the reclassification to Mononeuria patula has been widely accepted, so I'm going with that name.

Mononeuria patula is a plant of rocky outcrops and meadows and openings in limestone barrens and cedar glades in the east-central part of the United States, from eastern Texas and Oklahoma north to Minnesota and east to Pennsylvania south to Georgia and Alabama. It is protected in at least Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. Note that another species, Mononeuria muscorum, is also known by the common name Limestone Barren Sandwort. The differences in the two species are difficult; M. muscorum will have 3-veined sepals, while those of M. patula may have either 3 or more frequently 5 veins. The leaves of M. muscorum are usually longer and wider than those of M. patula.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MN, MO, MS, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, VA, WI
Lime Barren Sandwort, Glade Sandwort, Pitcher's Stitchwort
StonecropSedum ternatum
(Native)
Woodland Stonecrop, Wild Stonecrop, Woods StonecropThe Pocket at Pigeon Mountain, Walker County, GA 04/04/2009Woodland Stonecrop, Wild Stonecrop, Woods Stonecrop
StonecropSedum leibergii
(Native)
Leiberg StonecropThe Sedum genus is in flux. USDA lists 72 taxa in the genus; many of those will be moved out of Sedum based on newer analysis of data which will include that from recent molecular studies.

Sedum leibergii is found only in four states - Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. It is found only in two counties in Montana (according to BONAP / USDA,) and is fairly rare in the 7 counties in Idaho where it's found.

Found in:
ID, MT, OR, WA
Leiberg Stonecrop
StonecropSedum stenopetalum
(Native)
Wormleaf Stonecrop, Narrow-leaved SedumThere are two varieties of Sedum stenopetalum - var. monathum, which has a solitary flower in the inflorescence, and the one presented here, var. stenopetalum, which will have between 9 and 25 flowers in the inflorescence. Var. monathum is found only in Washington, Oregon, and northern California, while var. stenopetalum is found in those states as well as Idaho, western Montana, and in Alberta and British Columbia in Canada.

Found in:
CA, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY
Wormleaf Stonecrop, Narrow-leaved Sedum
StonecropSedum pulchellum
(Native)
Widow's Cross, Glade Stonecrop, Widowscross, Lime Stonecrop, Pink StonecropSedum pulchellum is an attractive plant of thin soil on rocky limestone outcrops and glades. It blooms in late spring, to mid-summer in the northern end of its range. It is variably reported to be an annual, biennial, or perennial plant.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, IL, KS, KY, MO, MS, OH, OK, TN, TX
Widow's Cross, Glade Stonecrop, Widowscross, Lime Stonecrop, Pink Stonecrop
Stonecrop, OrpineHylotelephium telephioides
(Native)
Allegheny Stonecrop, Allegheny Live-for-everThe approximately 30 species in Hylotelephium were until recently classified as a subgenus or section of the Sedum genus. (There may be a move to change Hylotelephium to Anacampseros since it is reported that was an older name previously used for some plants in that section of Sedum.) Most of the morphological differences between Hylotelephium and Sedum are not obvious, but the much larger leaves stood out for me. There are 3 species of Hylotelephium in North America, with the species presented here, Hylotelephium telephioides - Allegheny Stonecrop, being the only North American native. Allegheny Stonecrop usually has a pale pinkish hue, whereas the non-natives have a green hue or darker purple or purple-red color.

Allegheny Stonecrop is "essentially a Central and Southern Appalachian endemic," according to Weakley. While there are some populations outside the Appalachian Mountain region - in Indiana, Illinois, western Kentucky, and possibly Louisiana - the plant will mostly be found in the Appalachians from Pennsylvania south to North Carolina; only at higher elevations in the southern part of its range. I observed it on rock outcroppings along the northern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and along the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Apparently reports of its presence in Georgia and New York are disputed.

Found in:
CT, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, VA, WV
Allegheny Stonecrop, Allegheny Live-for-ever
StoneseedLithospermum tuberosum
(Native)
Southern Stoneseed, Tuberous Stoneseed, Tuberous GromwellA hairy plant growing from 1 to 2 feet tall in forests with underlying limestone rocks in the southeastern United States. While the genus name refers to the very hard seed, the species epithet refers to the tuber-like root. I photographed this plant after author Jay Clark pointed it out to me as we crossed a limestone outcropping on a deer trail we were walking in one of the few places in Georgia where it can be found.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Southern Stoneseed, Tuberous Stoneseed, Tuberous Gromwell
StoneseedLithospermum ruderale
(Native)
Western Stoneseed, Columbia Puccoon, Yellow PuccoonI did not do a lot of species comparison on this, because this is the only Lithospermum species listed by USDA as being in Idaho, where I photographed this one. It is generally a fairly upright, hairy, leafy plant, growing up to about 2 feet tall, found in more or less open areas at altitudes of about 3500 to 5500 feet.

The genus name come from the very hard, small nutlets. The Stoneseed common name also references those hard nutlets (from Latin litho = stone, and spermum = seed.) The Puccoon common name comes from the Native American (one of the Algonquian languages) word for dye, since a red dye was made from the roots of these plants. Sanguinaria canadensis is another unrelated species to which the Puccoon name is applied; its roots were also used to produce a red dye. There is a report that Lithospermum ruderale produces a yellowish dye, and others that it, along with the other Stoneseed species, produces red dye; I don't know which is correct, or if processing differences might produce different colored dyes. There is some evidence to suggest the dyes made from an eastern Lithospermum species (L. canescens) was the origin of the term Redskin for Native Americans.

Found in:
CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Western Stoneseed, Columbia Puccoon, Yellow Puccoon
StoneseedLithospermum canescens
(Native)
Hoary Puccoon, Orange Puccoon, Indian PaintAbout 18 (to 22 if you include Onosmodium - Marbleseed - in Lithospermum, as most recent classification is doing) of the 60 or so Lithospermum species are found in North America, with one in each of the lower 48 states, and most of Canada. All but one of these species are native (L. officinale, the introduced species, is found in the north east and north central states and eastern Canada.)

Lithospermum canescens is one of the more widespread species, found in most states from the plains eastward, although more concentrated in the central part of the country. Other widespread species with overlapping ranges are a pair of eastern species, L. caroliniense (Carolina Puccoon) and L. latifolium (American Stoneseed), and two more western species, L. incisum (Narrowleaf Stoneseed.) and L. ruderale (Western Stoneseed.)

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NJ, OH, OK, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Hoary Puccoon, Orange Puccoon, Indian Paint
StorksbillErodium cicutarium
(Introduced)
Crane's Bill Geranium, Redstem Stork's Bill, Storksbill, Redstem Filaree, Heron's BillErodium cicutarium is a plant of Eurasian origin but has now spread throughout the world. According to the USDA Plants Database (map shown to the right) the only state where it is not found is Florida; only recently being officially recognized as present in Mississippi. While more common at lower elevations, it can be found in the montane zone which generally extends up to around 7500'. This plant is classified as a noxious weed in Colorado.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Crane's Bill Geranium, Redstem Stork's Bill, Storksbill, Redstem Filaree, Heron's Bill
StrawberryFragaria virginiana
(Native)
Virginia Strawberry, Wild StrawberryThis most widely-distributed wild strawberry, the Virginia Strawberry is found in every state in the United States except Hawaii. This United States native plant was one of the two species used to create the hybrid garden strawberry.Virginia Strawberry, Wild Strawberry
SumacRhus copallinum
(Native)
Winged Sumac, Shining Sumac, Flameleaf Sumac, Dwarf Sumac, Eastern Winged SumacThere are about 35 species of Rhus (Sumac) in the world, with about 15 found in North America. Two of them, Rhus aromatica and Rhus glabra, are found in each of the 48 lower states. Besides these two, the species presented here, Rhus copallinum is the most widely distributed, found in the entire eastern half of the United States, from Texas to Maine, as well as in Ontario, Canada.

There seems to be some disagreement on the division of Rhus, as it has undergone a few classification changes recently. All seem to agree with the move of Poison Oak and the Poison Ivy from Rhus into Toxicodendron. While there seems to be general acceptance that Poison Sumac (highly poisonous, but fortunately not common) should now be accepted as Toxicodendron vernix rather than Rhus vernix, many publications still list it in Rhus, and on the surface it sure looks more like Sumac than Poison Ivy to me (deeper dive may show a different story.) In the case of Winged Sumac, many authorities and publications list it as R. copallina rather than R. copallinum. Additionally, respected authorities seem to disagree on the varieties of that species. For example, Alan S. Weakley, in the November 2012 version of Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States recognizes var. latifolia, while those responsible for the Integrated Taxonomic Information System do not accept that name. Based purely on the description - with no field experience - I tend to agree with Mr. Weakley.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Winged Sumac, Shining Sumac, Flameleaf Sumac, Dwarf Sumac, Eastern Winged Sumac
SumacRhus aromatica
(Native)
Fragrant Sumac, Aromatic Sumac, Squawbush, Skunkbush, Lemon Sumac, Polecat Bush
Rhus - Sumac - is a small genus of about 35 species (Weakley, Wikipedia) of shrubs, small trees, and lianas native to Eurasia, North America, and northern Central America. Between 14 and 20 of those are found in North America, depending on the classification to which you subscribe. Flora of China says there are about 250 species in the genus; since that reference was written, the genus has been reclassified into multiple genera. As an example, the 60 African species formerly included in Rhus are now classified in the genus Searsia. It should be noted that the Sumac family - Anacardiaceae - not only includes Poison Ivy and Poison Sumac (Toxicodendron vernix, no longer classified within the Rhus genus), it also includes the valuable Cashew, Pistachio, and Mango plants.

There seems to be notable disagreement on the classification of Rhus aromatica - Fragrant Sumac, and I expect it to change more in the near future. Historically Rhus aromatica was a plant of the eastern half of the United States and Canada, and Rhus trilobata was the classification of the equally aromatic - western species - the eastern species is commonly known as Fragrant Sumac, and the western known as Skunkbush. Both sport (mostly) sport trifoliolate leaves, whereas most Rhus species have 5 or usually more leaflets per leaf. Both had been recognized by some authorities as having several varieties or subspecies (including Rhus trilobata var. simplicifolia, which usually has a single leaflet.) Now, however, most authorities seem to have combined the two species into R. aromatica, giving the combined species a range that covers the entire lower 48 United States except Maine, Delaware, and Rhode Island. While some authorities recognize up to 13 varieties or subspecies, and consider Rhus aromatica var. trilobata to be the western variety, the narrowest circumscription only concedes three varieties - var. aromatica, var. pilosissima, and var. simplicifolia. Because of the disagreement in classification, the USDA map to the right only shows the species in the eastern half of the United States. The foliage of Rhus aromatica can be confused with Poison Oak (Toxicodendron pubescens), but Rhus does not contain urushiol, the oil to which so many of us have severe reaction. The fruit of Rhus is red; that of Toxicodendron is white. The inflorescence of Rhus is compact; that of Toxicodendron is open and axillary.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Fragrant Sumac, Aromatic Sumac, Squawbush, Skunkbush, Lemon Sumac, Polecat Bush
SumacRhus glabra
(Native)
Smooth Sumac, Scarlet Sumac
Rhus - Sumac - is a small genus of about 35 species of shrubs, small trees, and lianas native to Eurasia, North America, and northern Central America. Between 14 and 20 of those are found in North America, depending on the classification to which you subscribe. Flora of China says there are about 250 species in the genus; since that reference was written, the genus has been reclassified into multiple genera. As an example, the 60 African species formerly included in Rhus are now classified in the genus Searsia. It should be noted that the Sumac family - Anacardiaceae - not only includes Poison Ivy and Poison Sumac (Toxicodendron vernix, no longer classified within the Rhus genus), it also includes the valuable Cashew, Pistachio, and Mango plants.

Rhus glabra is the most widely distributed species of Sumac in North America, found in each of the lower 48 states, although its presence in California is questioned. It is also found in most of Canada. It is most commonly seen along roadsides and in other areas that have been cleared but are being allowed to be overgrown. It is less commonly found in open woods. It is a shrub or small tree which usually blooms May to August, with the more conspicuous red seedheads showing up shortly after blooming.

Found in:

AL, AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, GS
Smooth Sumac, Scarlet Sumac
SunflowerHelianthus angustifolius
(Native)
Swamp Sunflower, Narrow-leaf Sunfloweraka Narrow-leaved Sunflower. Relatively easy sunflower to identify due to the narrow leaves, which are no longer than normal for a sunflower, but much narrower. The stem of Helianthus angustifolius has coarse hairs, especially on the lower part of the plant. The leaves also have hairs on the edge near the stem. Narrow-leaf sunflower has yellow ray flowers with darker disk flowers than many other sunflowers.Swamp Sunflower, Narrow-leaf Sunflower
SunflowerHelianthus atrorubens
(Native)
Purpledisk sunflower, Appalachian sunflowerMultiple flower heads terminating a stem which is quite hairy in the lower half; glabrous to pubescent nearing the inflorescence. The leaves are opposite with leaf pairs in whorled pattern around the stem. The leaves are greatly reduced as they near the top. Several flowers each on an individual 3" pedicels. Ovate, veined leaves are hairy and rough on top; hairy on bottom. A similar species is H. silphioides; the reason I decided this species is H. atrorubens is that the USDA doesn't list H. silphioides as being found in Georgia.Purpledisk sunflower, Appalachian sunflower
SunflowerHelianthus microcephalus
(Native)
Small Woodland Sunflower, Small-headed SunflowerThis is one of just a few Helianthus species which normally has fewer than 10 ray florets (petals.) Both the rays and disk are yellow. This plant is native to the eastern part of the United States, mostly south and central. The stem is smooth, sometimes glaucous, and the opposing lanceolate leaves are quite rough on the upper surface.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Small Woodland Sunflower, Small-headed Sunflower
SunflowerHelianthus decapetalus
(Native)
Thinleaf Sunflower, Ten-petal Sunflower, Forest Sunflower, Pale Sunflower Helianthus decapetalus is an occasionally branching plant from 2 to 5 feet tall, with multiple flower heads on long stalks. It is a relatively leafy sunflower, with opposite leaves on the lower part of the plant and alternate leaves on the upper part of the plant. This is one of the sunflowers that may have green or reddish stems. The stems are smooth, occasionally glaucous, in the lower part, and may have short hairs in the upper area, usually so in the inflorescence. It blooms in late summer and well into fall.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Thinleaf Sunflower, Ten-petal Sunflower, Forest Sunflower, Pale Sunflower
SunflowerHelianthus tuberosus
(Native)
Jerusalem Artichoke, Jerusalem Sunflower, Sunchoke, GirasoleAs with many members of Helianthus, Jerusalem Artichoke can be quite variable. One of the key features of this plant, the edible tubers, are underground and produced late in the season, so they aren't really a good identification feature (unless you want folks walking around pulling up the plants - I don't.)

This beautiful, showy sunflower is considered weedy or invasive by some authorities. It is found in all but 5 states, and also in much of Canada.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Jerusalem Artichoke, Jerusalem Sunflower, Sunchoke, Girasole
SunflowerHelianthus debilis
(Native)
Dune Sunflower, Beach Sunflower, Cucumberleaf Sunflower, East Coast Dune Sunflower, Branching SunflowerThe USDA Common name is Cucumberleaf Sunflower, but Beach Sunflower and Dune Sunflower seem to be the most commonly used common names. Until 1969, Helianthus debilis was considered to have 8 subspecies. In 1969, however, 3 of those subspecies found only in Texas were moved to the separate species Helianthus praecox (Texas Sunflower), leaving 5 subspecies in Helianthus debilis. Of these, Helianthus debilis ssp. silvestris is also found only in Texas. Subspecies debilis and vestitus are found only in Florida, and subspecies tardiflorus is found in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. Subspecies cucumerifolius is the most widespread subspecies, found 17 mostly coastal states.

Found in:
AL, CT, FL, GA, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MS, NC, NH, PA, RI, SC, TX, VA, VT, WV
Dune Sunflower, Beach Sunflower, Cucumberleaf Sunflower, East Coast Dune Sunflower, Branching Sunflower
SunflowerHelianthus annuus
(Native)
Common Sunflower, Kansas Sunflower, MirasolOfficially classified as a Secondary Noxious Weed in Iowa, Helianthus annuus can be quite weedy in other parts of its range as well, but has an attractive flower. It is found in dry open areas and disturbed sites in every state, is native from Minnesota to Texas and westward, and is introduced to the rest of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. It is introduced into most of Canada. This is the species that is the origin of the commercially-grown sunflower. It has a long history of use as a food, being originally cultivated for consumption by Native Americans, who ate and ground the seeds for use in flours, used them in the production of cooking oils, ate the buds boiled, and used the plants in various ways medicinally. The plants were also used for production of dyes, ornamentally, and as fuel. It is the state wildflower of Kansas, and is the state motor route symbol, so you'll see it not only everywhere along the roads of Kansas, but on the road signs as well.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, GS
Common Sunflower, Kansas Sunflower, Mirasol
SweetcloverMelilotus officinalis
(Introduced)
Yellow Sweetclover, Yellow Melilot, Common Melilot, Field Melilot, Cornilla Real, White SweetcloverAn invasive species introduced from Eurasia which is now found in every state in the United States and most of Canada, and even in Greenland. The almost identical White Sweetclover is classified as the separate species Melilotus alba by some authorities, while others now consider it a white form of Melilotus officinalis, although some research indicates that they are incompatible, thus should be maintained as separate species. Melilotus indicus is another introduced yellow Sweetclover which is similar. Its flowers may be somewhat smaller, and it has a shorter pedicel - < 1mm. While it is still widely distributed in the United States, M. indicus is found only in 31 states, rather than in all 50 like M. officinalis.

It has a bitter taste but a sweet odor which is enhanced by drying.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Yellow Sweetclover, Yellow Melilot, Common Melilot, Field Melilot, Cornilla Real, White Sweetclover
SweetcloverMelilotus albus
(Introduced)
White Sweetclover, White Melilot, Honey-Clover, Bokhara CloverThis plant is a native of Eurasia, from the Mediterranean to Tibet. It appears nearly identical to Melilotus officinalis except for blossom color. Some authorities consider them to be separate species rather than color forms of the same species because they are reported to be genetically incompatible. USDA Plants Database has synonymized M. albus with M. officinalis, but ITIS, Weakley, the USDA Forestry Service (FEIS), and others continue to treat them separately. In addition to the color difference, the blossom of M. albus is somewhat smaller. Because USDA Plants database has them synonymized, the map shown here is that for M. officinalis, and my guess is that this is a combined map of the two species. I expect that the distribution of these two species is similar - one or the other (or both) is found in every state in the United States, and almost all of Canada.

Melilotus was reported in the United States as early as 1664, and by 1817 it had spread as far west as Utah and Nevada. It was reported in Alaska in 1916, and in Hawaii in 1920. Its spread was largely because it was promoted for soil reclamation, both for improving soil quality from worn-out tobacco fields and for stabilizing eroding hillsides. It was also planted for honey production and as a livestock and wildlife forage. It was used for soil reclamation by federal agencies as recently as 1998. Having escaped and naturalized, it grows in a variety of habitats, and is reportedly more invasive in northern temperate climates than in southern.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
White Sweetclover, White Melilot, Honey-Clover, Bokhara Clover
SweetrootOsmorhiza longistylis
(Native)
Longstyle Sweetroot, Sweet Anise, AniserootThe leaves and stem when crushed will have a slight licorice smell; the root is anise-scented. This identification vs the very similar O. claytonii (Sweet Cicely) is based on the style of the flower, which is significantly longer than the 5 white petals. In O. claytonii, according to Wildflowers Of Tennessee, The Ohio Valley and the Southern Appalachians the style is shorter than the petals.Longstyle Sweetroot, Sweet Anise, Aniseroot
SweetshrubCalycanthus floridus
(Native)
Eastern Sweetshrub, Sweet Shrub, Carolina Allspice, Strawberry Shrub, Sweet Bubby BushEastern Sweetshrub is an attractive, woody shrub up to 10 feet tall. During late spring the plant will have many flowers each with many maroon to reddish brown sepals and petals. The flowers are pleasantly aromatic, especially when the petals are crushed. Calycanthus floridus is Endangered in Florida.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Eastern Sweetshrub, Sweet Shrub, Carolina Allspice, Strawberry Shrub, Sweet Bubby Bush
SweetspireItea virginica
(Native)
Virginia Sweetspire, Virginia Willow, Tassel-whiteThis plant grows on streambanks and other moist areas. It is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental not only for its blossoms, but also for the rich, long-lasting fall color of its foliage. lightly fragrant. To about 8 feet tall.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA
Virginia Sweetspire, Virginia Willow, Tassel-white
TansyTanacetum vulgare
(Introduced)
Common Tansy, Golden Buttons, Bitter Buttons, Cow Bitter, Garden TansyThere are 6, 7, or 8 species of Tanacetum found in North America. Of these there are 1, 2, or 3 native species, depending on whether you consider Lake Huron Tansy (ME, MI, WI, parts of Canada; protected due to its rarity in all areas where it is found) to be Tanacetum huronense, and Dune Tansy (CA, OR, WA) to be Tanacetum camphoratum, or both to be forms of T. bipinnatum which is also found in Alaska. Most authorities now consider them to all be T. bipinnatum. The other 5 species, including Tanacetum vulgare, the one presented here, are introduced. Two of those have small ranges, with T. corymbosum found only in Oregon, and T. conccineum in Colorado, New York, and Ohio (neither are listed in Flora of North America.) The other three species have a much wider distribution. T. parthenium has white ray flowers, distinguishing it from the (usually) rayless T. vulgare, and T. balsamita has simple, crenate leaves, while T. vulgare has compound, pinnate leaves. T. vulgare is the most widespread of the Tansies found in North America, being found in all but 5 of the 50 states (all of them southern), as well as in most of Canada. It is a native of subalpine river valleys in Siberia, introduced to the United States in the 17th century as a garden herb with a variety of uses medicinally (although toxic in large doses) and in the household as an astringent.

Found in:
AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Common Tansy, Golden Buttons, Bitter Buttons, Cow Bitter, Garden Tansy
TasselflowerEmilia fosbergii
(Introduced)
Florida Tasselflower, Flora's Paintbrush, Florida Tassel FlowerThere are three species of Tasselflower (Emilia) in the United States, none of which have very wide distribution. Lilac Tasseflower (Emilia sonchifolia) is the only native species of these three which are native (although Flora of North America disagrees with the native status of this species.) All three species are found in Florida, and Florida Tasselflower, the one presented here, is also found in Louisiana, Texas, California, and Hawaii.

E. sonchifolia is less frequent than Florida Tasselflower, and differs primarily in leaf attributes, although it usually has paler flowers. The third species, Emilia coccinea is an ornamental that may occasionally escape but, accoring to the Flora of North America, does not persist in the wild. There is very little difference between E. coccinea and E. fosbergii (involucres are longer in fosbergii; the flower heads may be larger) but if you find it in the wild it is most likely E. fosbergii, Florida Tasselflower. Tasselflowers do not have ray florets.

Found in:
CA, FL, HI, LA, TX
Florida Tasselflower, Flora's Paintbrush, Florida Tassel Flower
TeaselDipsacus sativus
(Introduced)
Teasel, Indian Teasel, Fuller's TeaselNote that the imbedded text in the photos say Teasel and Dipsacus sp. rather than being more specific - that's due to some doubts about Dipsacus sativus (Indian Teasel) being the correct identification, so I can change easily if someone convinces me that these are one of the other two Dipsacus found in North America, with all three species being reported in Virginia, where these photos were taken. Dipsacus sativus has the narrowest distribution of these three species (there are about 15 species worldwide). D. laciniatus (Cutleaf Teasel) is found in 20 states, and D. fullonum (Common Teasel) has the widest distribution, being found in 41 states.

Dipsacus sativus and Dipsacus fullonum are both also known as Fullers Teasel because they were used in the fulling process - making woolen cloth softer and thicker by various processes including pulling barbed tools (the dried heads of Teasel among them) across the surface of the cloth. Dipsacus sativus was more likely the Teasel preferred by fullers due to the recurved receptacle spines.

Found in:
CA, NY, OH, OR, PA, VA
Teasel, Indian Teasel, Fuller's Teasel
ThistleCirsium vulgare
(Introduced)
Bull Thistle, Spear ThistleThis is an introduced species which has spread to every state in the United States. It is listed as a noxious weed (and thus it is prohibited to propagate) in at least 10 states.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Bull Thistle, Spear Thistle
ThistleCirsium hookerianum
(Native)
Hooker's Thistle, White ThistleThis plant is thought to be monocarpic - it flowers and forms seeds only once, and then dies (although there is some question about that.) However, it is also considered perennial, because it may live for several years before flowering.

Similar species Cirsium longistylum is found only in Montana, and has long, fringed involucre bracts.

All Cirsium species are listed as noxious weeds in Arkansas and Iowa, although this particular species is not known outside of a few states in the U.S. northwest, and in Alberta and British Columbia in Canada.

Found in:
ID, MT, WA, WY

NOTE: A comment from Bruce Bennett put my 5-year-old identification of this plant as Cirsium hookerianum in question. While I haven't yet had time to research my reason for discounting other white-flowered thistles known in Idaho, some quick research on Bruce Bennett's credentials implies that he can speak with some authority pertaining to plants in the area, making his identification of this plant as Cirsium undulatum (Wavy-leaf Thistle) almost certainly correct.
Hooker's Thistle, White Thistle
ThistleCirsium horridulum
(Native)
Yellow Thistle, Common Yellow Thistle, Spiny Thistle, Bigspine Thistle, Southern Yellow Thistle, Horrible ThistleMost of the plants we normally call thistles are within four genera in Asteraceae, Carduus, Cynara, Cirsium, and Onopordum. The vast majority of the species of thistle found in North America - and all the native ones - are in the Cirsium genus. With over 60 species in the genus in North America there is at least one in every state, and the genus is represented throughout most of Canada as well. Cirsium horridulum, Yellow Thistle, is an eastern species, being found in all of the eastern coastal states from Maine to Texas as well as in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. It grows in open areas such as roadsides, meadows, and pastures. While Cirsium horridulum, along with all species of Cirsium, are considered noxious weeds in Arkansa, and many (most?) people look on it as such, it receives protection as an Endangered or Threatened species in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island. There are three varieties of the species in the United States - vars. horridulum, vittatum, and megacanthum. Var. horridulum is the only one with yellow flowers, but it can also have red to purple flowers. The other two varieties have a narrower distribution in the U.S., and are less hairy than var. horridulum.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DE, FL, GA, LA, MA, MD, ME, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA
Yellow Thistle, Common Yellow Thistle, Spiny Thistle, Bigspine Thistle, Southern Yellow Thistle, Horrible Thistle
ThoroughwortEupatorium serotinum
(Native)
Late-Flowering Thoroughwort, Late-Flowering BonesetThere are 24 Eupatorium species in North America; over 40 worldwide, with Thoroughworts being found in Europe and Asia. It used to be a larger genus, with Eutrochium (Joe Pye Weed) being included in Eupatorium until fairly recently. Eupatorium serotinum is one of the most widely distributed species in the genus, surpassed only by Eupatorium altissumum (Tall Thoroughwort) and Eupatorium perfoliatum (Common Boneset.) One or more of these species frequently line the backroads of the eastern half of the United States with their white blossoms in late summer and early fall.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Late-Flowering Thoroughwort, Late-Flowering Boneset
ThoroughwortEupatorium perfoliatum
(Native)
Boneset, Common Boneset, Feverwort, Indian Sage, Wild IsaacThere are 24 Eupatorium species in North America - over 40 worldwide with Thoroughworts also being found in Europe and Asia. It used to be a larger genus, with Eutrochium (Joe Pye Weed) being included in Eupatorium until fairly recently. Eupatorium are among the Asteraceae that have no ray florets.

Common Boneset, Eupatorium perfoliatum, is the most widely distributed of the North American Eupatorium species, being found in moist areas such as marshes, swamps, wet pastures, and lakesides in every state east of the Rocky Mountains, and most of eastern Canada. The plant has been used historically for treatment of a variety of ailments, and its use in alleviating the deep-seated pain in the joints caused by influenza provided the common name Boneset. Eupatorium species are often called Thoroughworts, a name also provided by this plant because of the perfoliate leaf structure - the stem goes "through" the leaves.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Boneset, Common Boneset, Feverwort, Indian Sage, Wild Isaac
ThoroughwortEupatorium rotundifolium
(Native)
Roundleaf Thoroughwort, Common Roundleaf Eupatorium
There are at least 24 Eupatorium species in North America; over 40 worldwide, with Thoroughworts also being found in Europe and Asia. It used to be a larger genus, with Eutrochium (Joe Pye Weed) being included in Eupatorium until fairly recently, with several other genera also being included in Eupatorium in the further past.

Eupatorium rotundifolium has wide distribution across most of the eastern half of the United States, from Texas to southern New Hampshire and Maine. It is quite variable with a propensity to hybridize, and also has been classified by some authorities as having 3 varieties. The differences are primarily in the leaves. Recent efforts at classifying this confusing genus have instead given these varieties full species status: Eupatorium rotundifolium var. rotundifolium stays as Eupatorium rotundifolium, Eupatorium rotundifolium var. ovatum is classified as Eupatorium pubescens, and Eupatorium rotundifolium var. scabridum is classified as Eupatorium scabridum. Eupatorium cordigerum has also been considered a variety in the past. Excluding var. ovatum from the species also means that Eupatorium rotundifolium is not found in the extreme northeastern states in the range shown in the map to the right, and in my "Found in" list below (MA, ME, NH.)

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MA, ME, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Roundleaf Thoroughwort, Common Roundleaf Eupatorium
TickseedCoreopsis lanceolata
(Native)
Lanceleaf CoreopsisLanceleaf Coreopsis is a late spring / early summer wildflower that is found in all but eight states in the United States. While it is native to the continental states, it is an introduced species in Hawaii. The plant grows to approximately 3 feet tall.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Lanceleaf Coreopsis
TickseedCoreopsis tripteris
(Native)
Tall Coreopsis, Tall TickseedCoreopsis is a genus of 33 species native to the United States, with a species found in every state except Alaska, Nevada, and Utah. Coreopsis triperis is found in 27 states. It is Endangered in Maryland.

While most Coreopsis species are 3 feet tall or shorter, this plant can be 8 or more feet tall. The Tickseed part of the name is because the seed is hard, dark, and flat, looking like the namesake arachnid.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Tall Coreopsis, Tall Tickseed
TickseedCoreopsis major
(Native)
Greater Tickseed, Whorled Leaf Coreopsis, Forest TickseedCoreopsis major grows from 2 to 4 feet tall on roadsides and open forests. The blossom has both yellow ray and disk flowers and can be up to 2.5 inches wide.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MA, MS, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
Greater Tickseed, Whorled Leaf Coreopsis, Forest Tickseed
TickseedCoreopsis pubescens
(Native)
Hairy Coreopsis, Hairy Tickseed, Star TickseedThe Coreopsis genus has 35 - 50 species, almost all of them in the Americas, with 28 listed in Flora of North America. Coreopsis pubescens is primarily a species of the southeastern United States, with the range extending as far north as Illinois and as far west as Texas. It is of Special Concern in Kentucky.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, FL, GA, IL, KS, KY, LA, MA, MO, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Hairy Coreopsis, Hairy Tickseed, Star Tickseed
TicktrefoilDesmodium ochroleucum
(Native)
Cream-flowered Tick Trefoil, Cream Ticktrefoil, Tick Clover, Creamflowered Tick-TrefoilAccording to the December 2006 edition of "Castanea", the journal of the Southern Appalachian Botanical Society, there are 13 known populations of this species in 6 states - Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, and Tennessee. There are 5 other states within its historical range, but the populations have apparently been lost, presumably extirpated, in these states: New Jersey, Delaware, Virgina, North Carolina, and Missouri.

According to Linda G. Chafin's Field Guide to the Rare Plants of Georgia there are fewer than 25 sites. Since 13 is less than 25 both of these publications are likely correct, with the difference likely being how recently the plant has been recorded at the various sites. For example, in Georgia there are 2 sites listed for this plant, one of them the Walker County location where these photographs were made. The other site is in Lee County, but the plant has not been seen there since the 1940s.

With those few sites where the plant is known, it is not a wonder that it is Endangered in Florida, Maryland, Tennessee, Threatened in Georgia.

I owe much appreciation to Jay Clark who pointed out these plants and their identity while we were looking for Shadow Witch Orchids.

Found in:
AL, DC, DE, FL, GA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, TN, VA
Cream-flowered Tick Trefoil, Cream Ticktrefoil, Tick Clover, Creamflowered Tick-Trefoil
TicktrefoilDesmodium nudiflorum
(Native)
Nakedflower Ticktrefoil, Naked-Flowered Tick Trefoil, Naked-stemmed Tick Clover
The USDA Plants Database lists 75 US species in the Desmodium (Ticktrefoil) genus, although specific occurrence information seems to be unavailable for many of the species, so the presence of all of them is doubtful. At least one species is found in 41 states, with the far west missing out. Most of us are probably more familiar with the little sticky seeds that fasten themselves to our clothing than with the flowers, but these members of the Pea family do have attractive blossoms. Nakedflower Ticktrefoil is found in 34 states, and in much of eastern Canada.

Most authorities now classify this species as Hylodesmum nudiflorum.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Nakedflower Ticktrefoil, Naked-Flowered Tick Trefoil, Naked-stemmed Tick Clover
TicktrefoilDesmodium rotundifolium
(Native)
Round-Leaved Tick Trefoil, Round-Leaved Trailing Tick-Trefoil, Prostrate Ticktrefoil, DollarleafDesmodium is a large genus of about 700 species worldwide, with perhaps 75 species in the United States. Desmodium rotundifolium is found in about half of the United States; it is Threatened in New Hampshire and Vermont. Desmodiums are known as Tick Clover, Tick Trefoils (for their three leaflet leaves) and Beggars Lice, due to their sticky seeds which attach themselves to clothing, socks, and animal fur.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WV
Round-Leaved Tick Trefoil, Round-Leaved Trailing Tick-Trefoil, Prostrate Ticktrefoil, Dollarleaf
ToadflaxLinaria dalmatica
(Introduced)
Dalmation Toadflax, Broadleaf ToadflaxDalmation Toadflax is a plant that was introduced from Europe in the 19th century as an ornamental, and is now classified as an invasive noxious weed in 12 states. It is now found throughout the lower 48 United States except in the southeast.

This is another of many plants undergoing relatively recent changes in classification, with the Linaria genus recently being placed in Plantaginaceae, the Plantain family, having been moved out of Scrophulariaceae - the Figwort family.

Similar species - Butter-and-Egg Plant - Linaria vulgaris, another introduced plant which has officially become a noxious weed. Linaria vulgaris is found throughout the United States, including the southeast. The easiest differentiator between L. vulgaris and L. dalmatica is that L. dalmatica has clasping leaves.

Found in:
AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, MA, ME, MI, MN, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, WY
Dalmation Toadflax, Broadleaf Toadflax
ToadflaxLinaria vulgaris
(Introduced)
Butter-and-eggs, Common Toadflax, Yellow Toadflax, Wild Snapdragon
Linaria is a moderately large genus of around 150 species of Eurasia. Several species have been introduced into North America, but Linaria dalmatica (Dalmation Toadflax) and the species presented here, Linaria vulgaris (Butter-and-Eggs), have spread widely and vigorously enough to be classified as obnoxious species, the case for both of them in much of the western half of the United States. Linaria dalmatica is largely absent from the Southeast, but Linaria vulgaris is present in every state except Alaska and Hawaii, although only sporadically in the Southeast..

Found in:
AL, AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Butter-and-eggs, Common Toadflax, Yellow Toadflax, Wild Snapdragon
Touch-me-not Impatiens capensis
(Native)
Jewelweed, Touch-me-not, Spotted jewelweedReported to be an antidote for poison ivy allergens, when crushed and the liquid rubbed on the area which was in contact with the poison ivy.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV
Jewelweed, Touch-me-not, Spotted jewelweed
Touch-me-notImpatiens pallida
(Native)
Pale Touch-me-not, Pale SnapweedOf the 10 Impatiens species found wild in the United States, 5 are native. This species, I. pallida is one of those natives, and it is found in 33 of our states. It is protected as a plant of Special Concern in Maine.

Pale Touch-me-not grows to 5 feet tall in moist areas, usually in dense colonies.
Pale Touch-me-not, Pale Snapweed
Trailing ArbutusEpigaea repens
(Native)
Trailing Arbutus, Ground Laurel, Mayflower, Plymouth MayflowerTrailing Arbutus is a shrub in the Heath family. The stems grow along or near the ground, as indicated by the genus name: Epi is from the Greek for upon, and gaia is Greek for earth.

There are three species in the Epigaea genus, one in eastern Asia (E. asiatica), one in southwestern Asia (E. gaultherioides), and this one, Epigaea repens, which is native to the eastern United States and Canada. It is Endangered in Florida, where it is found in the panhandle. It is also protected in New York, and may be extirpated in Illinois. It is the state flower of Massachusetts, and is legally protected there as well.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Trailing Arbutus, Ground Laurel, Mayflower, Plymouth Mayflower
TrefoilLotus corniculatus
(Introduced)
Bird's Foot Trefoil, Birdfoot Deervetch, Bloomfell, Cat's Clover, Crowtoes, Ground HoneysuckleThis is not the Lotus of Lotus Blossom fame (those are in the Nelumbo genus.) Lotus is instead a large genus of over 100 species in the Pea Family. My research implies a few members of this genus are found in the United States with only one being native - L. parviflorus, found in Oregon and Washington, as well as British Columbia in Canada. Most species found in the United States that have been considered Lotus are instead now classified in Acmispon or Hosackia.

Lotus corniculatus - Bird's Foot Trefoil - is the most widely distributed species of the genus in the United States, found in all but 7 states, and in all of the southern tier of Canadian provinces as well as Yukon Territory. A native of Europe and Asia, it was introduced into North America for livestock forage and to control wind and water erosion. It is a low-growing, usually decumbent perennial found in a variety of environments, probably most commonly seen in grassy areas where when in bloom provides a lovely carpet of golden yellow blossoms.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Bird's Foot Trefoil, Birdfoot Deervetch, Bloomfell, Cat's Clover, Crowtoes, Ground Honeysuckle
TridaxTridax procumbens
(Introduced)
Coatbuttons, Tridax Daisy, Tridax, Cadillo ChisacaThis tropical plant is an invasive weed, listed federally and by 9 states. While the USDA lists it as found in the United States only in Florida and Hawaii (as well as in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands), 7 other states have it listed as an invasive or noxious weed, so presumably it is found in those states as well. Tridax procumbens is the only Tridax species found in the United States.

Found in:
AL, CA, FL, HI, MA, MN, NC, OR, SC, TX, VT
Coatbuttons, Tridax Daisy, Tridax, Cadillo Chisaca
TrilliumTrillium catesbaei
(Native)
Catesby's Trillium, Bashful Wakerobin, Rose TrilliumThe yellow anthers make a quick differentiation with the nodding trillium (Trillium cernuum), which have pink anthers.

Found in:
AL, GA, NC, SC, TN
Catesby's Trillium, Bashful Wakerobin, Rose Trillium
TrilliumTrillium simile
(Native)
Sweet White Trillium, Jeweled Wakerobin, Confusing TrilliumTrillium simile is one of our rarer trilliums, being found only in certain mountain areas of Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. There is some doubt as to its presence in South Carolina.

Some authorities have classified it as Trillium vaseyi Harbison var. simile.

There are three similar Trillium species with the dark, nearly black ovaries - Trillium simile, Trillium erectum, and Trillium sulcatum. To further confuse, all may have red (maroon) or white petals (T. erectum may have yellowish or greenish petals as well.) White petals are the norm for T. simile, are uncommon but not real rare in T. erectum, and may occasionally occur in T. sulcatum. T. sulcatum flowers are smaller than the others and the petals are only slightly longer than the sepals. It is more difficult to tell the difference between T. simile and T. erectum. The sepals and petals of T. erectum will usually be "flatter" - more closely in the same plane - than T. simile. The petals of T. simile are wider relative to the sepals, usually twice as wide or more, and are more likely to be recurved near the tip than those of T. erectum. With those difficult differentiators, perhaps the easiest way to tell the difference is to remember these common names and use them in reference to the fragrance - T. simile is "Sweet White Trillium", with a sweet fragrance similar to green apples, and T. erectum is "Stinking Benjamin", with an unpleasant musty odor more like that of a wet dog.

Found in:
GA, NC, SC, TN

NOTE: In Feb, 2014 I received a comment from Chris Stoehler, indicating that some of the photos I had published on this page at that time were T. erectum var. album. Some research implies that Chris could be considered an authority on several Trillium species, including those under consideration here. I reviewed my identification, and removed the most likely incorrect photographs. I have also replace the first image on the page with one for which I have a much higher degree of confidence. The last three on the page leave some doubt. It may require an April visit back to the site where they were taken to check on the fragrance of the blossoms.
Sweet White Trillium, Jeweled Wakerobin, Confusing Trillium
TrilliumTrillium sessile
(Native)
Toadshade Trilliumaka Little Sweet Betsy. One of the sessile trilliums, which have the "toadshade" designation. T. sessile is shorter, has smaller leaves, and a smaller blossom than T. cuneatum, which is easily and frequently confused with T. sessile. Toadshade Trillium
TrilliumTrillium decumbens
(Native)
Trailing TrilliumTrailing trillium is characterized by carrying its three leaves close to the ground. It has a lovely deep red blossom, starting to bloom in mid-March.

Found in:
AL, GA, TN
Trailing Trillium
TrilliumTrillium flexipes
(Native)
White Trillium, Nodding Wakerobin, Bent White Trillium, Bent Trillium, Drooping Trillium, Declined TrilliumOne of a number of white trilliums which carry their flowers on a pedicel. Those with pedicels are frequently called wakerobins, those without toadshades, although as is frequently the case with common names, there is inconsistency in those monikers.
Synonyms:
Trillium declinatum
Trillium erectum
Trillium gleasonii

Endangered in Maryland and New York.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, PA, SD, TN, VA, WI, WV
White Trillium, Nodding Wakerobin, Bent White Trillium, Bent Trillium, Drooping Trillium, Declined Trillium
TrilliumTrillium cuneatum
(Native)
Little Sweet Betsy, Purple Toadshade, Large Toadshade, Wedge-petal Trillium, Bloody ButcherOne of the sessile-flowered, erect-stalked trilliums. Trillium cuneatum blooms from in early- and mid-spring. It is not native in the northern states of its range (MD, MI, PA). Many of these carry a variation of the "Toadshade" moniker as a common name.
Syn. Trillium hugeri

Found in:
AL, GA, IL, KY, MD, MI, MS, NC, PA, SC, TN
Little Sweet Betsy, Purple Toadshade, Large Toadshade, Wedge-petal Trillium, Bloody Butcher
TrilliumTrillium vaseyi
(Native)
Vasey's Trillium, Sweet WakerobinVaseys Trillium, as indicated by the Sweet Wakerobin name by which it is also known, is one of the trilliums whose flower is on a pedicel. The blossom nods below the leaves.Vasey's Trillium, Sweet Wakerobin
TrilliumTrillium grandiflorum
(Native)
Large-Flowered Trillium, Great White Trillium, White TrilliumTrillium grandiflorum is one of the showiest and most common of our eastern Trilliums. It grows to about 2 feet tall, and can be found in large colonies.

Endangered in Maine; Exploitably Vulnerable in New York.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Large-Flowered Trillium, Great White Trillium, White Trillium
TrilliumTrillium lancifolium
(Native)
Lanceleaf Trillium, Lanceleaf WakerobinLanceleaf Trillium is a small trillium with a sessile maroon blossom. It is found only in six southeastern states - TN, MS, AL, GA, SC, and FL, and is endangered in Florida and Tennessee.

Lanceleaf Trillium is similar to and closely related to Prairie Trillium (Trillium recurvatum.) Prairie Trillium has more strongly recurved sepals, is usually larger than T. Lancifolium, has broader leaves, and (key identifier) the leaves are on short petioles, whereas T. Lancifolium leaves narrow significantly at their base, but they are sessile. T. recurvatum also has a larger, more northern and western range.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, MS, SC, TN
Lanceleaf Trillium,  Lanceleaf Wakerobin
TrilliumTrillium petiolatum
(Native)
Idaho Trillium, Long-petioled Trillium, Purple Trillium, Round Leaf Trillium, Purple WakerobinAn unusual trillium with plantain-like leaves found primarily in the region where the states of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington come together. It may be 8 to 10 inches tall.

Found in:
ID, OR, WA
Idaho Trillium, Long-petioled Trillium, Purple Trillium, Round Leaf Trillium, Purple Wakerobin
TrilliumTrillium luteum
(Native)
Yellow Trillium, Yellow WakerobinPrimarily a species of south of the Mason Dixon Line, Trillium luteum is also found in Michigan and Ontario, Canada.

Recent classifications have moved the Trilliums, along with 9 other Liliaceae genera, into the family Melanthiaceae. Among the criteria for that change is the fact that Lilies have 6 tepals - sepals and petals which are almost identical - but Trilliums sepals are distinctly different from their petals. Unlike the Lilies, Trillium sepals persist longer than their petals. I have so far continued to leave Trillium in Liliaceae on USWildflowers.com.

Found in:
AL, DC, GA, KY, MD, MI, NC, SC, TN, VA
Yellow Trillium, Yellow Wakerobin
TrilliumTrillium ovatum
(Native)
Western Trillium, Western White Trillium, Pacific Trillium, Oettinger's TrilliumTrilliums are much more common in the east than they are in the west. In Idaho, where these photos were taken, there are only two Trillium species - the one presented here, Trillium ovatum, and the Idaho Trillium, Trillium petiolatum. There are two varieties of Trillium ovatum (some authorities considered these to be subspecies); var. ovatum (Pacific Trillium) and var oettingeri (Oettinger's Trillium.) Var oettingeri blooms later, from spring into summer, and is known only in a small area in northern California. Var ovatum may start blooming in late winter and on into spring. The bracts (what we normally consider the leaves) of var. oettingeri are on short petioles; those of var. ovatum are sessile.

Flora of North America states that T. ovatum var ovatum blooms from late February through late April, but these photographs were taken at relatively high elevations (5,000') in late May, and I have photographed another plant in the Wallowa National Forest as it was ending its bloom in early June.

Found in:
CA, CO, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY
Western Trillium, Western White Trillium, Pacific Trillium, Oettinger's Trillium
TrilliumTrillium maculatum
(Native)
Spotted Wakerobin, Spotted TrilliumThere are over 40 species in the Trillium genus worldwide; Flora of North America lists 38 species being found on this continent. Trillium was placed in the Liliaceae family for most of its lifetime of scientific classification. Most authorities have recently removed it from Liliaceae and placed it in Melanthiaceae because unlike other Liliaceae, the petals and sepals of Trillium are distinctly different - in most other Liliaceae species very similar. (Note that this tepal issue is at play in other Liliaceae species such as Calochortus, and it is almost universally accepted that Liliaceae will continue to be dismembered.) Even more recent phylogenetic analysis (Schilling, Floden, and Farmer, 2013) implies that there are sufficient differences from other Melanthiaceae to warrant inclusion in a separate family, and a number of respected authorities now place Trillium in Trilliaceae.

Trillium maculatum is one of the sessile-flowered Trilliums (subgenus Phyllantherum.) It can be difficult to tell the difference between some of the species in that subgenus (I certainly find it so!) so it is most helpful to have someone with expertise do the identification for you. T. maculatum and T. cuneatum - closely related, along with T. luteum, based on recent phylogenetic analysis (referenced above) - look nearly identical to me. Fortunately, while their ranges overlap somewhat, T. cuneatum is a more northern species; the range of T. maculatum is in the southern half of the states in which it is found. I won on both counts here; these were located in Georgia near the Florida border, and the folks at Wolf Creek Trout Lily Preserve had identified them for me.

Trillium maculatum - Spotted Wakerobin - is a plant of rich forests on the bluffs, floodplains, and banks of streams in the deep south. It is an early-flowering species, blooming as early as the first part of February.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, SC
Spotted Wakerobin, Spotted Trillium
TrilliumTrillium sulcatum
(Native)
Southern Red Trillium, Barksdale Trillium, Furrowed WakerobinTrillium was formerly classified in Liliaceae, but most authorities have placed it in Melanthiaceae, because unlike other Liliaceae, the petals and sepals of Trillium are distinctly different. A number of respected authorities now place Trillium in Trilliaceae.

Trillium sulcatum is one of the pedicellate Trilliums, frequently referred to as Wakerobins. It is found primarily on the Cumberland Plateau but also some other mountainous areas of seven southeastern states. It was originally thought to be included with Trillium erectum, but "Barksdale" (I believe this is botanist Dr. Alma Whiffen Barksdale) determined that it was at least a separate variety of Trillium. Building on that work, Georgia botanist T. S. Patrick, while a student at the University of Tennessee, formally described Trillium sulcatum as a separate species.

Found in:
AL, GA, KY, NC, TN, VA, WV
Southern Red Trillium, Barksdale Trillium, Furrowed Wakerobin
TrilliumTrillium undulatum
(Native)
Painted Trillium, Painted Wakerobin, Painted LadyTrillium was formerly classified in Liliaceae, but most authorities have placed it in Melanthiaceae, because unlike other Liliaceae, the petals and sepals of Trillium are distinctly different. A number of respected authorities now place Trillium in Trilliaceae. I'm hanging on to Liliaceae until the dust settles.

Trillium undulatum is one of the pedicellate Trilliums, frequently referred to as Wakerobins; this species is also known as Painted Wakerobin. It's mostly a species of the northeastern United States and eastern Canada, with some populations as far west as small parts of Ohio and Michigan. It's found in the Appalachian mountains in southern Pennsylvania thru the Virginias and south as far as northern Georgia and northern South Carolina. It is classified as Threatened, Endangered, or Vulnerable in Kentucky, Michigan, New York, and Ohio. It grows in acidic forests, usually in deeply shaded areas except in the higher elevations.

It is reported that the berries and roots have low levels of toxicity if eaten. It blooms in late spring and early summer.

Found in:
CT, GA, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV, GS
Painted Trillium, Painted Wakerobin, Painted Lady
TrilliumTrillium erectum
(Native)
Red Trillium, Stinking Benjamin, Red Wakerobin, Wet Dog Trillium, Purple WakerobinThere are three similar Trillium species with the dark, nearly black ovaries - Trillium simile, Trillium erectum, and Trillium sulcatum. To further confuse, all may have red (maroon) or white petals (T. erectum may have yellowish or greenish petals as well.) White petals are the norm for T. simile, are uncommon but not real rare in T. erectum, and may occasionally occur in T. sulcatum. T. sulcatum flowers are smaller than the flowers of the other two species, and in T. sulcatum the petals are only slightly longer than the sepals.

It is more difficult to tell the difference between T. simile and T. erectum. The sepals and petals of T. erectum will usually be "flatter" - closer to being in the same plane with each other - than those of T. simile. The petals of T. simile are wider relative to the sepals, usually twice as wide or more, and are more likely to be recurved near the tip than those of T. erectum. With those difficult differentiators, perhaps the easiest way to tell the difference between these two species is to remember these common names and use them in reference to the fragrance - T. simile is "Sweet White Trillium", with a sweet fragrance similar to green apples, and T. erectum is "Stinking Benjamin", with an unpleasant musty odor more like that of a wet dog.

As mentioned above, the petals of T. erectum - the species presented here - are more commonly red than white, green, or yellowish, so another of the several common names for this plant is Red Trillium. There is some dispute as to whether the plants with the white petals, as shown here, are deserving of varietal classification (T. erectum var. album) or should instead be classified as a form; Flora of North America still lists it as a variety while stating that it more likely should be a form, and ITIS does not accept the varietal classification, so it appears that what is presented on this page is the white form of Trillium erectum.

Trillium erectum is mostly a northeastern species, it does extend its reach in the Appalachian Mountains southward to northern Alabama and Georgia. While it is reported that in the Smoky Mountains the white form is more common in the lower elevations and the red form in the upper elevations, the white form presented here were photographed at an elevation of nearly 5,000 feet.

Found in:
AL, CT, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Red Trillium, Stinking Benjamin, Red Wakerobin, Wet Dog Trillium, Purple Wakerobin
TrilliumTrillium viridescens
(Native)
Green Trillium, Ozark Green Trillium, Tapertip Wakerobin
There are over 40 species in the Trillium genus worldwide; Flora of North America lists 38 species being found on this continent, and new species (or species separation) continue to occur regularly. Trillium was placed in the Liliaceae family for most of its lifetime of scientific classification. Most authorities have recently removed it from Liliaceae and placed it in Melanthiaceae because unlike other Liliaceae, the petals and sepals of Trillium are distinctly different - in most other Liliaceae species very similar. Note that this tepal issue is at play in other Liliaceae species such as Calochortus, and it is almost universally accepted that Liliaceae will continue to be dismembered. Even more recent phylogenetic analysis (Schilling, Floden, and Farmer, 2013) implies that there are sufficient differences from other Melanthiaceae to warrant inclusion in a separate family, and a number of respected authorities now place Trillium in Trilliaceae. I continue to place it in Liliaceae until the dust settles.

Trillium viridescens is found blooming in April and May in rich soils of deciduous forests in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. It is one of the sessile-flowered Trilliums (subgenus Phyllantherum), and it can be difficult to tell the difference between some of the species in that subgenus - I certainly find it so!T. viridescens and T. viride look nearly identical, and are geographically closely located. T. luteum also looks similar, and has been confused with the other two species in the past, but T. luteum is not found west of the Mississippi River (well east of it, in fact), and the other two species are not found east of the Mississippi. While there are reports of T. viride further west, authoritative reports conclude that the ranges of T. viride and T. viridescens do not overlap, and that T. viride is found only near the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers in northeastern Missouri and southern Illinois. Along with other attributes, that leaves me concluding that what I photographed in and near Roaring River State Park in southwestern Missouri is Trillium viridescens.

Found in:
AR , KS , MO , OK , TX
Green Trillium, Ozark Green Trillium, Tapertip Wakerobin
Triplet-LilyTriteleia grandiflora
(Native)
Large-flowered Triplet-lily, Douglas' Brodiaea, Wild Hyacinth Triteleia grandiflora is found in eight of our western states (CA, CO, ID, MT, OR, UT, WA, WY.) It will be about 1 to 2 feet tall or a bit taller, growing in dry meadows, sagebrush, and pine forests. To us easterners, it has the appearance of an onion species with large flowers, but there was no detectable aroma. There are blue and white varieties.

Synonyms:
  • Brodiaea douglasii
  • Brodiaea howellii
  • Triteleia bicolor
  • Triteleia howellii


Found in:
CA, CO, ID, MT, OR, UT, WA, WY
Large-flowered Triplet-lily, Douglas' Brodiaea, Wild Hyacinth
Trumpet CreeperCampsis radicans
(Native)
Trumpet Creeper, Cow Itch, Hell Vine, Devil's Shoestring Campsis is a genus of only two species - Campsis grandiflora is a plant of eastern Asia, and the North American species is Campsis radicans, a native of southeastern United States, but which has spread and naturalized much further north and west.

Found in:
AL, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI, WV, GS
Trumpet Creeper, Cow Itch, Hell Vine, Devil's Shoestring
Trumpet FlowerCollomia grandiflora
(Native)
Large Flowered Collomia, Grand Collomia, Mountain CollomiaThere are 13 species of Collomia in the United States, with all but 1 of them (Collomia linearis) being found exclusively in the western half of the United States. C. linearis is found in the west as well as the rest of the northern United States and most of Canada. The species presented here, C. grandiflora, found in 10 western states as well as in British Columbia (C. heterophylla and C. linearis are also found in British Columbia.)

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Large Flowered Collomia, Grand Collomia, Mountain Collomia
Trumpet FlowerCollomia linearis
(Native)
Narrowleaf Collomia, Tiny Trumpet, Narrow-leaf Mountain TrumpetThere are 13 species of Collomia in the United States, with all but Collomia linearis, the species presented here, being found exclusively in the western half of the United States. C. linearis is found in the west as well as the rest of the northern United States and most of Canada. While it is native in Canada and the 32 of the lower 48 states where it is found, it is an introduced species in Hawaii and Alaska.

Found in:
AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, WY
Narrowleaf Collomia, Tiny Trumpet, Narrow-leaf Mountain Trumpet
TuberoseManfreda virginica
(Native)
Eastern Agave, Virginian Agave, Eastern False Aloe, Rattlesnake-masterThere are 26 species of Manfreda (Tuberose) in the world - all from Mexico, Central America, and 5 in the southwestern United States (specifically Texas) except for this one. Manfreda virginica, Eastern Agave, is also found in Texas, but its range continues north and east thru southern Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, and on to the southeastern coastal states. Some authorities include Manfreda in the Agave genus, but the stem of Agave is above ground, while that of Manfreda is subterranean (although the flowering scapes would appear as stems to most of us.) Manfreda virginica flowers from early to late summer in glades, barrens, and dry woodlands and roadsides.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Eastern Agave, Virginian Agave, Eastern False Aloe, Rattlesnake-master
TuliptreeLiriodendron tulipifera
(Native)
Tulip Poplar, Yellow Poplar, Tuliptree, Tulip MagnoliaTulip Poplar is not a poplar, which includes the cottonwoods, true poplars, and willows, but rather a member of the magnolia family. The 'tulip' name comes not only from the blossom, but also from the leaves, both of which are tulip-shaped. The leaves are an attractive yellow in the fall. It is a tall, fast-growing tree, reaching heights of 80 - 120 feet. It grows thoughout most of the eastern and southeastern United States except for Maine and New Hampshire.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WV
Tulip Poplar, Yellow Poplar, Tuliptree, Tulip Magnolia
TurtleheadChelone lyonii
(Native)
Red Turtlehead, Pink Turtlehead, Lyon's Turtlehead, Appalachian TurtleheadChelone was a woman of Greek Mythology who the gods changed into a turtle - perhaps with a head shaped similarly to the flowers on these plants. There are only four species in Chelone, all of them eastern North American natives. Two of them, C. glabra and C. obliqua, have fairly widespread native distribution, while C. cuthbertii and the species presented here, C. lyonii, have much more limited native distribution. The common names Red Turtlehead and Pink Turtlehead are applied to both C. lyonii and C. obliqua, and I would guess C. cuthbertii as well.

Chelone lyonii is probably native only to the higher Appalachian elevations of northeastern Alabama, eastern Tennessee, western North Carolina, and northwestern South Carolina. There are also reports of a likely native population on Lookout Mountain in northwestern Georgia. Other populations are likely naturalized from garden escapees.

Found in:
AL, CT, GA, MA, ME, MS, NC, NY, SC, TN, WV (Native in TN, AL, GA, NC, SC; naturalized in other states.)
Red Turtlehead, Pink Turtlehead, Lyon's Turtlehead, Appalachian Turtlehead
TwaybladeListera australis
(Native)
Southern TwaybladeListera australis is now a synonym of Neottia bifolia. Based on recent molecular studies, scientists have determined that Listera and Neottia have common ancestors, and therefore should be in the same genus. This is in spite of Neottia being without chlorophyll, relying on fungi for food production, while Listera plants are chlorophyllic, thus producing their nutrition via photosynthesis. Since Neottia is an older name, it won out over Listera. Maybe I'm just recalcitrant, but I think chlorophyllic/non-chlorophyllic is enough for separation of the species into different genera, so I'm sticking with Listera australis until the rest of the world publications are updated.

Southern Twayblade is a diminutive plant of damp forest areas and open bogs from Texas and Florida north to Pennsylvania, New York, and Vermont. It is listed as Endangered or Threatened in Florida, Kentucky, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Vermont, although due to its coloration and tiny size it may be more widespread than verified records indicate. It is possibly extirpated in Kentucky.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT
Southern Twayblade
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TwinleafJeffersonia diphylla
(Native)
Twinleaf, Helmet Pod, Ground Squirrel PeaThe only other species in the genus is J. dubia, an Asian plant. Jeffersonia diphylla is a species native to parts of the United States and Canada. It is endangered or threatened in four states - Iowa, New Jersey, New York, and Georgia. In Georgia it is found only in four sites in Walker County.Twinleaf, Helmet Pod, Ground Squirrel Pea
UmbrellaleafDiphylleia cymosa
(Native)
American Umbrella Leaf, Umbrella-leafDiphylleia is a small genus with only three species; two are Asian and only Diphylleia cymosa - American Umbrella Leaf - is found in North America. It is endemic to the Blue Ridge Mountains of the Appalachians, found in moist areas such as seepages and stream banks in hardwood forests and coves, usually at altitudes of more than 2,000 feet, up to 5,000 feet or higher. The area where it grows was part of the original Cherokee native American territory; it is reported that they used it as a disinfectant.

Found in:
AL, GA, NC, SC, TN, VA
American Umbrella Leaf, Umbrella-leaf
Venus' Looking-glassTriodanis perfoliata
(Native)
Venus' Looking Glass, Clasping Bellwort, Clasping Venus' Looking Glass, Roundleaved TriodanisSynonym: Specularia perfoliata. There are 7 species of Triodanis in the United States. T. perfoliata is the most widespread, being found in all states except Alaska, Hawaii, and Nevada, and in much of Canada. T. biflora, a more southern species, is found in 24 of the 50 states, and is not reported in Canada. Texas is the only state where all 7 species of Triodanis are found. This native plant is considered weedy or invasive by some authorities.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Venus' Looking Glass, Clasping Bellwort, Clasping Venus' Looking Glass, Roundleaved Triodanis
VervainVerbena simplex
(Native)
Narrowleaf Vervain, Simple VerbenaThe range of Narrowleaf Vervain is most of the eastern half of the United States. It is listed as "Special Concern" in Connecticut, and is Endangered in Massachusetts and New Jersey, but is a quite common dry meadow and roadside plant in much of its range. It is the larval host for the Common Buckeye butterfly.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Narrowleaf Vervain, Simple Verbena
VervainVerbena urticifolia
(Native)
White Vervain, Nettle-leaf VerbenaOne or the other of the two varieties of Verbena urticifolia is found in every state east of the Rocky Mountains, with the exception of possibly Maine, where it is historical but might be extirpated. It can be weedy (to that I can attest personally,) and I personally find it interesting but not especially attractive.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
White Vervain, Nettle-leaf Verbena
VetchCoronilla varia
(Introduced)
Crown Vetch, Purple Crown Vetch, Axseed, Hive VineCoronilla varia is a synonym for Securigera varia. Similarly to Kudzu, Crown Vetch was introduced into the United States for erosion control. Similarly to Kudzu, it now appears that was a mistake, and it is now present in every state except Alaska and North Dakota. Organizations in many states now consider this plant to be a significant threat to native plants.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Crown Vetch, Purple Crown Vetch, Axseed, Hive Vine
VetchVicia caroliniana
(Native)
Wood Vetch, Carolina Vetch, Pale VetchWood Vetch is an attractive mid-spring plant found in most of the eastern half of the United States except for New England. It grows up to about 2.5' tall, or you may call it long rather than tall, because as it grows it will sprawl along the ground or climb on other plants. It is endangered in New Jersey.

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Wood Vetch, Carolina Vetch, Pale Vetch
Viburnum Viburnum acerifolium
(Native)
Maple Leaved Viburnum, Mapleleaf Viburnum Mapleleaf Viburnum is a shurb that grows to 6 feet tall. It grows in forests and open woods.

Recent classification changes have moved the genus Viburnum, along with Sambucus, out of the Honeysuckle Family and into the Muskroot Family.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Maple Leaved Viburnum, Mapleleaf Viburnum
ViburnumViburnum dentatum
(Native)
Southern Arrowwood, Arrowwood ViburnumRecent classification changes have moved the genus Viburnum, along with Sambucus, out of the Honeysuckle Family and into the Muskroot Family.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Southern Arrowwood, Arrowwood Viburnum
ViburnumViburnum lantanoides
(Native)
Hobblebush, Witch Hobble, HobbleberryViburnum is a large genus in the Adoxaceae (Muskroot) family (formerly Caprifoliaceae), with 150 to 200 species worldwide - mostly in Asia and South America, but with 30 to 35 found in the wild in the United States. There are also a number of cultivars - think Snowball Bush. I most frequently confuse Viburnum with Hydrangea, although they are not closely related, probably because some species of both plants may have larger, sterile flowers around the outside of the inflorescence. The flowers of Viburnum will normally have 5 stamens, while those of Hydrangea will have 8 to 10. Both Viburnums and Hydrangeas normally appear as shrubs or small trees.

Viburnum lantanoides is a plant that prefers cool, moist places, found primarily in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada, but also found into the southeastern United States in the upper elevations of the Appalachian Mountains. The photos on this page were taken at an elevation of over 4,000 feet in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Found in:
CT, GA, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, TN, VA, VT, WV
Hobblebush, Witch Hobble, Hobbleberry
Violet Viola hastata
(Native)
Halberdleaf Yellow Violet, Halberd Leaf Yellow VioletThe leaves of Halberleaf Yellow Violet are more or less arrowhead shaped, similar to that of a the working end of a halberd. Halberdleaf Yellow Violet, Halberd Leaf Yellow Violet
Violet Viola sororia
(Native)
Common Blue Violet, Confederate Violet, Dooryard Violet, Meadow VioletViola sororia comes by its common name "Common Blue Violet" justifiably - it is found in many environments throughout the United States from the east coast to the Rocky Mountains. Live east of the Rockies and find a blue violet in your yard, it is likely Viola sororia.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Common Blue Violet, Confederate Violet, Dooryard Violet, Meadow Violet
Violet Viola canadensis
(Native)
Canada VioletOne of our mid-spring wildflowers, Canada Violet grows to about 18" tall. Large colonies can carpet areas of open forests with their white blossoms. Canada Violet
VioletViola blanda
(Native)
Sweet White VioletThis is a small white woodland violet.

Found in:
AL, CT, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Sweet White Violet
VioletViola pedata
(Native)
Bird's-foot violetBird's-foot or Crow-foot violet has one of the larger, showier blossoms of the wild violets.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV
Bird's-foot violet
VioletViola rostrata
(Native)
Long-spurred violetThis is one of our earliest blooming spring violets.

Found in:
AL, CT, GA, IN, KY, MA, MD, MI, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV)
Long-spurred violet
VioletViola pubescens
(Native)
Downy Yellow Violet, Smooth Yellow Violet, Yellow Forest VioletOne of several species of yellow violets found in the United States.

I originally thought this to be Viola rotundifolia, which has ovate to cordate leaves. A key identifier for this species is, according to Wildflowers Of Tennessee, The Ohio Valley and the Southern Appalachians is that this is the only yellow violet in eastern North America with the flowers and leaves on separate stalks.

I now believe Viola rotundifolia to be an incorrect identification. I (finally!) took a closer look at the yellow violets in a couple of areas of The Pocket, including the area where the photo below was taken 3 years earlier, and have found all to be Viola pubescens (or perhaps V. eriocarpa / V. pensylvanica if you subscribe to the separation of those species.) In many cases the stem of the plant was covered in forest detritus, making it appear to be acaulescent, especially to one who didn't know to check closer. I suspect that would be the case with the photo below.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Downy Yellow Violet, Smooth Yellow Violet, Yellow Forest Violet
VioletViola palmata
(Native)
Wood Violet, Early Blue Violet, Trilobed VioletThere seems to be some disagreement as to whether Viola triloba is a separate species or included among varieties of Viola palmata. It seems generally accepted that what was for a time classified as Viola triloba var dilatata is within Viola palmata, and some authorities list Viola triloba var triloba as a synonym of V. palmata var triloba. An exception is the USDA Plants Database, which lists V. palmata as a hybrid of other Violet species.

The distinction (or maybe disagreement) is naturally enough around the form of the leaves, but at the sites with the most recent updates it seems the direction is to roll V. triloba into V. palmata, and I'm inclined to join that crowd. Since I have taken that position (open to discussion!) the states I have for this species is a combination of the distribution listed by the USDA for both Viola triloba and Viola palmata. The map shown to the right is that for V. triloba. The states I am including in my list for V. palmata are these: AL, AR, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Wood Violet, Early Blue Violet, Trilobed Violet
VioletViola tripartita
(Native)
Three-parted Yellow Violet, Threepart Violet, Wedge-leaf Yellow VioletThere are two varieties of this relatively rare violet - Viola tripartita var. tripartita and Viola tripartita var. glaberrima. It's historical range includes rich, wooded slopes in a dozen of the southeastern United States, as far north as southwestern Pennsylvania, where it is now believed to be extirpated, and southeastern Ohio, where var. tripartita is believed to be extirpated and the remaining population of var. glaberimma is protected with an official status of Endangered. It is also protected in Florida and Tennessee.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, KY, MD, MS, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, WV
Three-parted Yellow Violet, Threepart Violet, Wedge-leaf Yellow Violet
VioletViola bicolor
(Native)
Field Pansy, Wild Pansy, Johnny Jump-upViola bicolor is still considered by some to be a variety of the European Viola kittaibeliana but most authorities now agree that it is a separate species native to the United States. It apparently was more common and originated in the western part of its current range, but due to its weedy nature it has spread eastward, and probably further westward than its original range as well.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WV
Field Pansy, Wild Pansy, Johnny Jump-up
VioletViola lanceolata
(Native)
Lanceleaf Violet, Bog White Violet, Strapleaf VioletViola lanceolata is a violet species with a widespread distribution in North America, although it is relatively uncommon in most of its range due to its requirement for a quite wet habitat. It grows in floodplains, bogs, and other areas with seasonal inundation throughout the eastern half of the continent and west to Nebraska and Oklahoma, with disjunct populations in Oregon, Washington State, and British Columbia. Depending on whether you consider Western Bog Violet to be classified as Viola lanceolata var. occidentalis or Viola primulifolia var. occidentalis, it may also be in California. Some sources say that V. lanceolata is native to its western range; others say it was introduced in the 19th or early 20th century.

Some authorities recognize a variety (or subspecies) of Viola lanceolata in the southeastern United States, V. lanceolata var. vittata. It is characterized by more linear than lanceolate leaves, which are more than 10 times as long as wide. The leaves of var. lanceolata are less than 8 times as wide as long, and are lanceolate rather than linear. (Viola primulifolia have leaves which are usually no more than 3 times as long as wide.

Found in:
AL, AR, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, GS
Lanceleaf Violet, Bog White Violet, Strapleaf Violet
VioletViola purpurea
(Native)
Goosefoot Violet, Goosefoot Yellow Violet, Mountain VioletViola purpurea is a yellow-flowering violet of western North America, being found in ten western states and in British Columbia, Canada. It is further divided into at least 6 subspecies or varieties, depending on which subclassification method to which you subscribe. The subspecies presented in the photographs here, Viola purpurea ssp. venosa, is the most widely distributed one, missing only from Arizona out of the ten aforementioned states (ssp. mohavensis is the only subspecies found in Arizona; it is also found in California.)

I had previously, incorrectly, identified these photos of Viola purpurea ssp. venosa as Viola praemorsa. Many thanks to Dr. John Little for providing me with the corrected identification.

Found in:
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY
Goosefoot Violet, Goosefoot Yellow Violet, Mountain Violet
VioletViola egglestonii
(Native)
Glade Violet, Eggleston's VioletWhile it is pretty easy to identify a violet as a violet, when I started identifying wildflowers I had no idea how difficult it can be, with some exceptions, to identify a violet to a species. Viola egglestonii is a violet which would be casually identified by me as a Wood Violet - Viola palmata - and indeed at one time it was classified as Viola palmata var. pedatifida. This is due to the lobed leaves and similar color these violets share - share with many violet species. In a glance the flower also looks similar to Viola sororia - Common Blue Violet - and Viola edulis - Salad Violet - and Viola cucullata - Bog Violet, as well as others, at least to those of us who lack expertise in the species. The differences in the various species mentioned comes to leaf shape (which can change with the age of the plant), leaf margins, hairiness of the stem and leaves, and density and shape of the hairs in the beard within the flower. You see my point about identification difficulties.

The environment in which a plant grows can be key to eliminating choices in identifying the species. Viola egglestonii is known as the Glade Violet because it is endemic to limestone glades and barrens primarily in central and eastern Tennessee, with its range extending to those habitats in northern Alabama and northwest Georgia on the southern end of the range, and into Kentucky and southern Indiana in its northern reaches. It is a protected species in Indiana and Kentucky.

Found in:
AL, GA, IN, KY, TN
Glade Violet, Eggleston's Violet
Viper's BuglossEchium vulgare
(Introduced)
Viper's Bugloss, Blueweed, Blue Devil, Blue Borage, Common Echium
Echium is a genus of around 60 species worldwide, native primarily to Europe, northern Africa and western Asia. There are 8 or 9 species found in the United States, none of which are native, and all but Echium vulgare with very limited distribution in the United States. The genus name comes from the Greek for viper, referring to the shape of the seed, which is similar to that of the head of the poisonous snake.

Echium vulgare is the most widespread of the genus in the United States, being mostly a species of the northeast and eastern midwest, but found in Alaska and all but four of the continental states. It is missing (so far) from Hawaii, Alabama, Florida, Nevada, and North Dakota. The USDA map to the right is out of date, with the species having been identified in several western states since the map was updated. The plant is a native of Mediterranean Europe, but is found here in dry pastures and roadsides across the country. The common name Bugloss (pronounced bew-gloss) is from the Greek word for ox-tongue, bouglosson, which refers to the rough texture and shape of the leaves.

Found in:
AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Viper's Bugloss, Blueweed, Blue Devil, Blue Borage, Common Echium
Water Horehound, BugleweedLycopus uniflorus
(Native)
Northern Bugleweed, Northern Water Horehound
Lycopus is a small genus of about 14 species native to Australia, Eurasia, and also North America which is native to 10 of those species. (One of them, Lycopus laurentianus, is not found in the United States, but rather in the St. Lawrence basin of Canada.) One Eurasian species, L. europaeus, has naturalized in Canada and the eastern United States, probably brought over in the 18th century by settlers who used it for medicinal purposes. Herbalists continue to use it today. In spite of being in the Mint family and similar in appearance to the Mentha genus, Lycopus has little to no aroma when the leaves are crushed. The plants are commonly called Water Horehound and Bugleweed. The latter name comes from the bugle-like shape of the flowers, unusual for members of the Mint family. The former name results from its affinity for wet locations, with Horehound coming from words for "downy" (hoary) and "hune", an old English word for a type of plant. The Bugleweed common name is also applied to members of the Ajuga genus, which is also used herbally, so be careful to are getting what you think if you are seeking herbal remedies.

Lycopus uniflorus is indeed a plant of wet areas - the one on this page was photographed in a high mountain seepage swamp in western Virginia. Its range spreads from coast to coast in the United States and Canada, excluding the southern tier of states. It is rare in several states, including California, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Arkansas, Tennessee, and in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its normal bloom time is June to November.

Found in:
AK, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, GS
Northern Bugleweed, Northern Water Horehound
WaterleafHydrophyllum canadense
(Native)
Broad-leaf Waterleaf ; Bluntleaf Waterleaf, Maple-leaf WaterleafBroad-leaf Waterleaf is a woodland plant which grows from 1 to 2 feet tall, and blossoms in late spring. The maple-leaved plant is similar to H. appendiculatum - Appendaged Waterleaf, but the latter is a distinctly hairy plant, and is not usually found with white blossoms.Broad-leaf Waterleaf ; Bluntleaf Waterleaf, Maple-leaf Waterleaf
WaterleafHydrophyllum capitatum
(Native)
Ballhead Waterleaf, Cat's Breeches, Dwarf WaterleafThe Ballhead Waterleaf is found on moist mountain slopes and woodlands in 9 northwestern states (CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY.) The color seems to be generally bluish at lower elevations getting paler - to white - as the elevation gets higher, although you may find a mix at any altitude. This common, small, attractive plant may be up to about a foot tall.Ballhead Waterleaf, Cat's Breeches, Dwarf Waterleaf
WaterlilyNymphaea odorata
(Native)
American White Water Lily, Fragrant Water Lily, White Water LilyThe American White Water Lily (waterlily) is a beautiful aquatic plant found in most states in the United States.

The species consists of two subspecies, Nymphaea odorata ssp. odorata and N. odorata ssp. tuberosa. The latter is usually has somewhat larger flowers, and the petals are somewhat blunter. The more widespread subspecies from which the species takes its epithet has a very sweet fragrance, reported to be missing from ssp. tuberosa. The unscented American White Water Lilies are not found in the west or southeast.
American White Water Lily, Fragrant Water Lily, White Water Lily
WaxweedCuphea viscosissima
(Native)
Blue Waxweed, Clammy Cuphea, TarweedCuphea viscosissima is native to the eastern United States, and has been introduced into Ontario, Canada. It is lists as a plant of Special Concern in Connecticut.

An oil derived from the seed of this plant (and others in the Cuphea genus) is used in some cosmetics and skin lotions, and its potential is being explored for nutrition and for biofuel.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV
Blue Waxweed, Clammy Cuphea, Tarweed
Western DaisyAstranthium integrifolium
(Native)
Western Daisy, Entireleaf Western Daisy, Eastern Western Daisy
Astranthium is a small genus of about a dozen species primarily of Mexico, but three species have ranges within the United States - Astranthium integrifolium, Astranthium ciliatum (Comanche Western Daisy), and Astranthium robustum (which is endemic to Texas, and is known as the Texas Western Daisy.) While in the distant past, all three species have been considered subspecies to A. integrifolium, the multi-stemmed A. robustum has long been separated from the other two, single-stemmed species. Relatively recently, in 2005, Guy L. Nesom published the widely-accepted paper (see bibliography below) describing the rationale to consider Astranthium integrifolium ssp. ciliatum to be a separate species, classified as Astranthium ciliatum.

My interpretation / summary of the differences between the two species:
  • Lower cauline leaves are longer and wider in A. integrifolium than A. ciliatum.
  • The parts of the flower are somewhat larger in A. integrifolium.
  • The surface of the seed is less hairy in A. integrifolium.
  • A. ciliatum has a taproot (as does A. robustum); the root of A. integrifolium is fibrous.

Since these characteristics are less than obvious to most of us, and may require either waiting on seeds or pulling up the plant (strongly discouraged!), here's an easier technique - A. ciliatum occurs west of the Mississippi River - A. integrifolium to the east. While the specimen here was photographed in Tennessee and is therefore Astranthium integrifolium, I am including this plant in the lists for the states west of the Mississippi to help folks looking for wildflower identification in those states. Since the USDA still lists these species as one, the map shows the range for the combination of both species. It also shows it as being in North Carolina; according to Weakley, that was based on an erroneous report and it is not known in that state.

Astranthium integrifolium is found in AL, GA, KY, MS, TN, WV
Astranthium ciliatum is found in AR, KS, MO, OK, TX
Astranthium robustum is found in TX
Western Daisy, Entireleaf Western Daisy, Eastern Western Daisy
Wild GingerAsarum canadense
(Native)
Common Wild Ginger, Canadian Wild GingerAsarum is a small genus of about 10 species, 6 of which are found in North America, mostly in the far west. It is closely related to Hexastylis (Heartleaf / Little Brown Jug), but the sepals (the showy part of these flowers rather than the petals) of Hexastylis are connate (united) nearly their full length, while those of Asarum are not joined, although they are tightly touching in their lower portion, and then dramatically spread toward the tip.

Asarum canadense, the species presented here, is the only one of the 6 North American Asarum species found east of the Rockies. It is found blooming in early spring primarily in deciduous forests from the east coast of Canada south to South Carolina and Georgia, and westward into the plains states.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV, GS
Common Wild Ginger, Canadian Wild Ginger
Wild PetuniaRuellia caroliniensis
(Native)
Carolina Wild PetuniaHairy, long-pointed calyx lobes helps identify this wild petunia species. Walker County, 06/07/2009Carolina Wild Petunia
Wintergreen, ShinleafPyrola americana
(Native)
American Wintergreen, Round-leaved Pyrola, Rounded ShinleafThere are about 30 species in the Pyrola genus, with about 7 in North America. Some authorities classify Pyrola and several closely related genera in Pyrolaceae - the Wintergreen or Shinleaf family. However, most recent studies have concluded that Pyrolaceae should be returned to Ericaceae.

This plant - Pyrola americana - is considered by some authorities to be the same species as the Eurasian P. rotundifolia, while others have classified it as a subspecies to P. asarifolia (ssp. americana.) Most authorities agree that the classification is worthy of further study, while for now classifying it as a separate species. It is a subshrub of forests and bogs of primarily the northeastern quadrant of the United States south to Tennessee and North Carolina, and in eastern Canada. It is protected in Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

The leaves of this genus contain a compound similar to aspirin, and have been used to make a poultice to relieve pain from bruises and wounds. This poultice was called shinplaster, yielding the Shinleaf common name.

Found in:
CT, DC, DE, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SD, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
American Wintergreen, Round-leaved Pyrola, Rounded Shinleaf
WitchhazelHamamelis virginiana
(Native)
American WitchhazelThere are two Witchhazel species found in the United States, and two more Asian species. Hamamelis vernalis - Ozark Witchhazel - is found in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri. The species presented here, Hamamelis virginiana, is much more widespread, being found not only in those four states, but also every state east of the Mississippi River and every Mississippi River border state west of the river. It is also found in most of eastern Canada.

This small tree or shrub is unusual in that it blooms in the fall or even early winter rather than in warmer months. The seedpods open explosively, tossing the seeds up to 30 feet from the parent tree. Two years later the seed may germinate, adding to the dense understory Witchhazel helps create in its forest habitat.

Witchhazel has long been used by Native Americans as a medicinal plant for a variety of maladies, and it therefore came into use by the American colonists for similar purposes. It is still used as an astringent made from the leaves and bark, and is used in lotions, washes, ointments, and soaps.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
American Witchhazel
Wood PoppyStylophorum diphyllum
(Native)
Wood Poppy, Celandine Poppy
Stylophorum is a very small genus of only 3 species in the relatively small Poppy family (Papaveraceae), which contains less than 250 species. Two Stylophorum species are native to China, and one, Stylophorum diphyllum, the one presented here, is found in North America. This beautiful spring wildflower is usually found on slopes of moist woods, thickets, and cedar barrens, but may occasionally be found in other more open habitats of the eastern part of the United States and in Ontario, Canada.

Synonyms: Chelidonium diphyllum, Stylophorum ohiense

Found in:
AL, AR, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, MO, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV
Wood Poppy, Celandine Poppy
Wood SorrelOxalis montana
(Native)
Mountain Wood Sorrel, Northern Wood Sorrel. The "montana" epithet means "mountain". It is not found in the state of Montana. Synonym: Oxalis acetosella

Found in:
CT, GA, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Mountain Wood Sorrel, Northern Wood Sorrel.
Wood SorrelOxalis violacea
(Native)
Violet Wood Sorrel
Oxalis is a large genus of around 700 species worldwide. Identification can be difficult, and classification is changing and confusing. There are around 36 North American species.

Oxalis violacea is a low-growing plant of forests and moist prairies, and is found in much of the United States from New York south, and west to the Rocky Mountains.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV, WY
Violet Wood Sorrel
Wood SorrelOxalis macrantha
(Native)
Price's Wood Sorrel, Tufted Yellow WoodsorrelOxalis is a large genus of around 700 species worldwide, and identification can be difficult, and classification is changing and confusing. There are around 36 North American species. Price's Wood Sorrel is is one of the eastern species, and many authorities classify it as Oxalis priceae, but apparently Oxalis macrantha is an older name, and should be used. There are some variants that are variously classified as separate species (such as Oxalis texana - aka Oxalis macrantha ssp. texana - and Oxalis colorea - aka Oxalis macrantha ssp. colorea. Oxalis macrantha ssp. priceae is apparently the type subspecies, and is found primarily in limestone glades (aka cedar glades) primarily in Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee, where the specimen presented here was photographed. If you include all subspecies, the distribution ranges westward to Texas, eastward to include Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida.

Found in:
AL, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, TX
Price's Wood Sorrel, Tufted Yellow Woodsorrel
Wood SorrelOxalis dillenii
(Native)
Slender Yellow Woodsorrel, Southern Yellow Wood-sorrel, Dillen's OxalisOxalis dillenii is considered to be a form of Oxalis stricta by many experts. As an example, Flora of Missouri indicates that O. dillenii is a synonym of O. stricta, but ITIS lists as a separate species. Since ITIS considers it to be a separate species and it appears that the few distinguishing characteristics are consistent, I will follow that lead. Hairs are one of the key differentiating characteristics of Oxalis dillenii. It will be evenly strigose (hairs appressed or nearly so) from base to pedicel. Other yellow-flowered Oxalis will be strigose only in the inflorescence, if at all.

Slender Yellow Woodsorrel, O. dillenii, is a weedy plant found in all but five states of the U.S. It is native to much of that range, but introduced several western states. It is also found in parts of Canada; introduced in the western parts of its Canadian range. It commonly grows in yards, roadsides, fields, and other habitats.

Found in:
AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY

2017/04/30 Note: I have done a bit of recent research on Oxalis and now have some doubts about this being O. dillenii. A couple of respected resources indicate that it does not have red lines in the throat. With those lines, it seems to key out to O. grandis, but the flower is too small. Further research is warranted.
Slender Yellow Woodsorrel, Southern Yellow Wood-sorrel, Dillen's Oxalis
Wood SorrelOxalis grandis
(Native)
Large Yellow Wood Sorrel, Great Yellow Wood-SorrelOxalis is a large genus of around 500 to 700 species worldwide (most of the species in the family Oxalidaceae are in the Oxalis genus.) Identification can be difficult, and classification is changing and confusing. There are around 36 North American species, with at least one Oxalis species in every state except Alaska. Oxalis grandis - Large Yellow Wood Sorrel - is an eastern species, found in rich soils from Pennsylvania south to Georgia, west to Wisconsin through Louisiana. It is one of the yellow-flowered, caulescent Wood Sorrels (Oxalis section Corniculatae). The red marks in the throat reduce the number of candidate species for the plants shown here, helping with identification. O. texana (TX, LA, AR) and O. macrantha (limestone glades of central KY, central TN, and AL) are eliminated, as these plants were found in rich forest soil of northeastern Georgia.

Found in:
AL, DC, GA, IN, KY, MD, MS, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV, GS
Large Yellow Wood Sorrel, Great Yellow Wood-Sorrel
Wood SorrelOxalis oregana
(Native)
Redwood Sorrel, Oregon Wood Sorrel, Oregon Oxalis
Oxalis is a large genus of around 500 to 700 species worldwide (most of the species in the family Oxalidaceae are in the Oxalis genus; the family has only 3 genera.) Identification can be difficult, and classification is changing and confusing. There are around 36 North American species, with at least one Oxalis species in every state except Alaska. The plant contains the mildly toxic oxalic acid

Oxalis oregana - Redwood Wood Sorrel - is a plant of western North America, found in Coastal Redwood and Douglas Fir forests in the Pacific coast states of the United States, and in British Columbia in Canada.

Found in:
CA, OR, WA
Redwood Sorrel, Oregon Wood Sorrel, Oregon Oxalis
Woodland-starLithophragma parviflorum
(Native)
Smallflower Woodland-starFound in 11 western states, this small flower grabs attention as you walk the trails due to the lobed petals, giving it a star-like appearance. It is common, found usually at altitudes of close to 5,000 feet and higher.Smallflower Woodland-star
YamDioscorea villosa
(Native)
Wild Yam, Yam Root, Colic Root, Whorled Wild YamDioscorea - yam - is a large genus worldwide with about 600 species, but only 6 are known in North America, with all of them found in the eastern half of the United States, with only one, the native D. villosa found as far north as Canada. D. villosa has the widest distribution, followed closely by the non-native D. polystachya (syn. D. oppositifolia). Some consider the widely dispersed D. quaternata to be a separate species (Whorled Wild Yam), but most authorities now consider it to be synonymous with the highly variable D. villosa; a number of other variants that have been considered separate species in the past are now considered within D. villosa. D. polystachya has halbard-shaped leaves, rather than the ovate leaves of D. villosa. The other ovate-leaved Dioscorea within the range of D. villosa is D. floridana, but D. floridana is not found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or in Georgia where the Georgia photos on this page were taken. D. floridana also has only alternate leaves, whereas the lower leaves of D. villosa may be alternate, opposite, or in whorls of 3 to 7 leaves. The upper leaves of both species are alternate.

Dioscorea can be confused with Smilax. Dioscorea leaves have 7 to 13 main veins, while Smilax have 3 to 5 main veins.

Found in:
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, WV, GS
Wild Yam, Yam Root, Colic Root, Whorled Wild Yam
YarrowAchillea millefolium
(Native)
Common Yarrow, MilfoilWhile this member of the aster family is native to much of the United States, it is an introduced species in Hawaii.

Found in:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
Common Yarrow, Milfoil
Yellow False Foxglove, Oak-LeechAureolaria pectinata
(Native)
Southern Fernleaf False Foxglove, Southern Oak-leech, Cut-leaved Gerardia, Combleaf Yellow False FoxgloveAureolaria is a genus of 9 or 10 species in eastern North America and Mexico. These species had been classified within Gerardia originally, but many were incorrectly placed there. When that was corrected and Aureolaria was created (along with several other formerly-Gerardia genera), the remainder of Gerardia was placed in Agilinis, which appears to be the most closely related genus to Aureolaria, with the key differentiator between the two genera being flower color, with Aureolaria yellow and Agilinis purple. Both are pollinated by bumblebees. Both genera were moved from Scrophulariaceae to Orobanchaceae based on recent DNA studies. All Orobanchaceae are hemi-parasitic; Aureolaria are parasitic on the roots of Oak trees (Quercus), thus providing the Oak-leech common name for the genus.

Aureolaria pectinata is a plant of oak forests in the southeastern United States from the Appalachians westward to the Ozarks and south into the coastal plains. It is very similar to Aureolaria pedicularia, but that species is more northern, with overlap primarily in eastern Kentucky, eastern Tennessee, and in the Carolinas. The morphological differences are subtle, largely being the degree of hairiness and the percentage of glandular vs non-glandular hairs. Since the plants presented on this page were photographed well west of the range of Aureolaria pedicularia, it was easy to decide this is Aureolaria pectinata. The flower of Dasistoma macrophylla also looks similar, but it is densely hairy within the corolla, and is parasitic upon the roots of Buckeye trees.

Found in:
AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MO, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, GS
Southern Fernleaf False Foxglove, Southern Oak-leech, Cut-leaved Gerardia, Combleaf Yellow False Foxglove
Yellow LoosestrifeLysimachia quadrifolia
(Native)
Whorled LoosestrifeWhile the species name for this plant implies that there are four leaves in the whorl, there can be 3 to 6 (some reports even 7.) This specimen found on Big Frog Trail near the trailhead in Polk County, TN has 5 leaves per whorl at the upper nodes, and 6 leaves in the lowest one photographed. The plant is generally 1 to 3 feet tall.

Found in:
AL, CT, DC, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV
Whorled Loosestrife
Yellow LoosestrifeLysimachia tonsa
(Native)
Appalachian Loosestrife, Southern Yellow Loosestrife, Southern LoosestrifeLysimachia is made up of about 180 species worldwide, with about 20 in North America. Although there is at least one Lysimachia in each of the 50 states, most of the North American Yellow Loosestrifes are exclusively in the eastern half of the continent, and L. tonsa fits into that profile, being found only in a few states in the southeastern U.S. While the USDA Plants Database map (and BONAP) don't show this species in either state, there are some publications that indicate that it is found, or at least has been found in the past, in both Texas and Arkansas. It is classified as Rare in North Carolina.

Lysimachia tonsa has been classified as Lysimachia ciliata Linnaeus var. tonsa in the past, and it is quite similar. The most obvious difference between L. tonsa (Southern Yellow Loosestrife) and L. ciliata (Fringed Loosestrife,) which shares similar habitat within the much smaller range of L. tonsa, are the distinctly hairy petioles of L. ciliata. L. tonsa has petioles which may be hairy only near the stem.

Found in:
AL, AR, GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV
Appalachian Loosestrife, Southern Yellow Loosestrife, Southern Loosestrife

Updated 02/19/2021