Family: Saxifragaceae
Author: (Piper) A.Heller
Bibliography: Muhlenbergia 7: 60 (1912)
Year: 1912
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Micranthes
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. Canada to W. & WC. U.S.A.
Description
Brook saxifrage, scientifically known as Micranthes odontoloma, is a perennial herbaceous plant that finds its rightful place in the family Saxifragaceae. First described in the early 20th century by A. Heller, this plant was documented in the publication “Muhlenbergia” and has since captivated the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
The Brook saxifrage is indigenous to a vast range extending from Western Canada through to the western and west-central regions of the United States. It thrives in moist, alpine, and subalpine environments, often gracing the banks of streams and rivers, thereby earning its common name. This plant’s preference for wet habitats often contributes to the lush greenery and biodiversity of its native regions.
Brook saxifrage is characterized by its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. The leaves are typically green, often forming a rosette at the base, and may exhibit a finely toothed (odontoloma) margin, which is reflected in its species epithet. During its blooming period, the plant produces small, yet charming white to pinkish flowers that stand atop slender stems. These blossoms add a subtle but beautiful touch to the natural landscapes it inhabits.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Brook saxifrage plays a vital role in its ecosystem. It provides shelter and food for various insects and contributes to the stabilization of soil along waterways, preventing erosion. Its presence indicates a healthy, well-balanced environment, underscoring the importance of preserving its natural habitats.
Understanding and appreciating Brook saxifrage extends beyond its visual and ecological contributions. It serves as a reminder of the intricate connections within our natural world, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect such unique plant species and the ecosystems they support.
Common Names
Eng: brook saxifrage, stream saxifrage, streambank saxifrage
Fra: saxifrage à marges dentées
En: Brook saxifrage, Stream saxifrage, Streambank Pseudosaxifrage, Streambank saxifrage
Fr: Saxifrage à marges dentées
Synonyms
- Saxifraga odontophylla (Piper)
- Saxifraga odontoloma (Piper)
Distribution
- Alberta (native)
- Arizona (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Aug 23, 2004 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. (public)
Taken May 17, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 17, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Jun 20, 2020 by Hannah Carroll (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2015 by EOL − faerthen (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 25, 2012 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Apr 17, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 2, 2002 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 3, 2010 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 14, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 14, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:791909-1)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5939579)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Micranthes odontoloma (Piper) A. Heller)