Family: Ranunculaceae
Author: Salisb.
Bibliography: Trans. Linn. Soc. London 8: 303 (1807)
Year: 1807
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Trollius
Vegetable: False
Observations: NE. U.S.A. to Delaware
Description
The American globeflower, scientifically recognized as Trollius laxus, is an enchanting perennial plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. First described by the renowned botanist Salisbury in 1807, the American globeflower is notable for its elegant and distinctive floral structure. This species typically inhabits the moist, cool environments of the northeastern United States, extending its range down to Delaware.
Characteristic of the buttercup family, the American globeflower boasts spherical, brilliantly yellow flowers that bloom in early spring. These blossoms are encased in sepals that create a globe-like appearance, which is visually striking and attracts a range of pollinators. The plant’s vibrant flowers often stand out in the woodland and wetland areas where it grows, making it a cherished sight among nature enthusiasts and botanists alike.
Trollius laxus thrives in regions with cool, damp soil and partial shade, often found near streams and in wet meadows. Its adaptability to these specific conditions underscores its ecological importance within its native habitat, contributing to the biodiversity and health of these temperate ecosystems.
Due to its aesthetically pleasing flowers and its specific habitat requirements, the American globeflower is sometimes cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens that can mimic its natural, moisture-rich environments. Gardeners value it not only for its beauty but also for its relatively low maintenance once the proper growing conditions are established.
In conservation terms, understanding and preserving the natural habitats of Trollius laxus is vital, as changes in land use and climate can threaten these delicate ecosystems. Continued studies and conservation efforts are essential to ensure that future generations can appreciate the natural splendor of the American globeflower in its wild settings.
Common Names
Eng: american globeflower, spreading globeflower
Swe: blek smörskål
En: American globeflower, Spreading globeflower
Is: Engjagullhnappur
Sv: Blek smörskål
Synonyms
Distribution
- Alberta (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Delaware (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Montana (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Jul 2, 2021 by Bailey Dirk (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 7, 2000 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 18, 2001 by EOL − Robert Potts (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 16, 2018 by George Cantlie (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 6, 2021 by catherine guenin (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jun 20, 2020 by Hannah Carroll (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 25, 2014 by EOL − Anita (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 5, 2011 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 7, 2000 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3033292)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:715115-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Trollius laxus Salisb.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb