Family: Liliaceae
Author: Torr.
Bibliography: Pacif. Railr. Rep. Whipple, Bot. 4(5; 4): 150 (1857)
Year: 1857
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Clintonia
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. Oregon to W. California
Description
Red clintonia, known scientifically as Clintonia andrewsiana, is a captivating perennial belonging to the Liliaceae family. This plant, first described authoritatively by Torr. in the mid-19th century (Pacif. Railr. Rep. Whipple, Bot. 4(5; 4): 150, 1857), thrives in the temperate regions of Southwestern Oregon and Western California.
Distinguished by its lush greenery and striking red flowers, Red clintonia adds a vibrant splash of color to the forest floor. Each plant typically features broad, glossy leaves that form a basal rosette. These leaves not only provide a lush, verdant backdrop but also serve as a sturdy foundation for the striking floral display that emerges.
During its blooming season, Clintonia andrewsiana showcases clusters of tubular-shaped, reddish to dark pink flowers. These blooms, which generally appear in late spring to early summer, are not just visually appealing but also act as a beacon for local pollinators. The plant’s vivid flowers stand in stark contrast to the green surroundings, making it a focal point in its native habitat.
Red clintonia prefers shady, moist environments, often flourishing in the understory of coniferous forests where it benefits from the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy. Adapted to the specific climatic and soil conditions of the Pacific Northwest and adjacent areas, this species is an excellent example of the region’s unique flora.
In addition to its beauty, Clintonia andrewsiana plays a pivotal role in its ecosystem. It supports local wildlife, providing nectar for bees and other pollinators while also offering shelter and ground cover for small forest creatures.
Though relatively hardy, Red clintonia requires specific growing conditions to thrive outside its native range. Gardeners looking to cultivate this plant should mimic its natural habitat, ensuring a shaded area with consistently moist, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.
In summary, Red clintonia is an exquisite, ecologically significant plant that exemplifies the unique botanical heritage of the Pacific Northwest. Its introduction in 1857 has allowed botanists and plant enthusiasts alike to appreciate its contributions to both biodiversity and natural beauty in its native range.
Common Names
Eng: andrew’s clintonia, red clintonia
Swe: rött skogsöga
En: Red clintonia, Andrew’s clintonia
Sv: Rött skogsöga
Synonyms
- Clintonia andrewsii (Alph.Wood)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Oregon (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Malcolm Carlaw (cc-by)
Taken May 14, 2014 by EOL − kevinhintsa (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 2, 2019 by Eric Eric (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 8, 2022 by bill oconnor (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Aug 20, 2015 by EOL − Di (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 2, 2013 by EOL − loreng (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 28, 2019 by D S (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2019 by taylor noa (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 29, 2021 by LILO (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 2, 2014 by EOL − JK Johnson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 29, 2014 by EOL − Robert Steers (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 29, 2014 by EOL − Robert Steers (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 27, 2010 by EOL − Miguel Vieira (cc-by)
Taken Apr 22, 2013 by EOL − Liam O’Brien (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken May 30, 2017 by Tela Botanica − _ (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2753594)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:533155-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Clintonia andrewsiana Torr.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb