Family: Melastomataceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 346 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Rhexia
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & E. U.S.A.
Description
The Dull meadow-pitcher, scientifically known as Rhexia mariana, is a striking representative of the Melastomataceae family. First documented in the 18th century by the eminent botanist Carl Linnaeus in his seminal work Species Plantarum (1753), this species is part of a diverse genus known for its unique floral structures and ecological adaptability.
Native to the central and eastern regions of the United States, Rhexia mariana thrives in wet meadow habitats where its delicate beauty contributes to the biodiversity and visual appeal of these ecosystems. Characterized by its relatively modest and subdued blooms compared to its more flamboyant relatives within the genus, hence the name “Dull” meadow-pitcher, this plant displays a subtle elegance with light pink or purple flowers accented by prominent yellow stamens.
Rhexia mariana’s inflorescence typically peaks in late spring to summer, during which time it becomes a vital nectar source for a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The plant’s leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem and possess a rough, hairy texture, which is a common trait within the Melastomataceae family. The leaves’ serrated edges and pronounced veins further add to the distinctive look of this North American native.
In terms of its ecological role, the Dull meadow-pitcher is a hardy species that can withstand temporary flooding, making it an ideal plant in wetlands and damp meadows. Its presence in such habitats helps maintain soil stability and contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem.
Given its adaptability and the aesthetic appeal of its flowers, Rhexia mariana is not only an interesting subject for scientific observation but also a candidate for naturalistic garden settings that aim to mimic its native wetland environments.
Overall, the Dull meadow-pitcher is a testament to the intricate relationships within its habitat and serves as a key component of the flora in the central and eastern United States, embodying both botanical beauty and ecological importance.
Common Names
Eng: maryland meadow-beauty, maryland meadowbeauty, dull meadow-pitcher, pale meadow-beauty
Swe: ankarblomma
En: Dull meadow-pitcher, Pale meadow-beauty, Maryland meadow-beauty, Maryland meadowbeauty
Sv: Ankarblomma
Synonyms
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
Additional Images
Fruit
Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Seth Morris (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jun 3, 2022 by Oscar Calinescu (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 3, 2020 by Alex Arriaza (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Seth Morris (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 28, 2022 by Chris Griggs (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 11, 2021 by Burns Francis (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Nov 26, 2022 by Christine Yee (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 22, 2022 by Nick Mer (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Seth Morris (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 10, 2021 by Stefani Bruno Andrade (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 4, 2020 by Anastasia Perdue (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Aug 3, 2015 by EOL − ksmith (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 30, 2014 by EOL − Laura Clark (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 29, 2015 by EOL − grbfrog (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 10, 2014 by EOL − Sarah Robertson (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 28, 2022 by Chris Griggs (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 26, 2020 by Brad Kelley (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 2, 2020 by Allie P (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/6370240)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30025289-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rhexia mariana L.)
Specifications
Growth habit: Forb/herb