Common whipplea (Whipplea modesta, Pacif. Railr. Rep. Whipple, Bot. 4(5; 4): 90 (1857))

Family: Hydrangeaceae

Author: Torr.

Bibliography: Pacif. Railr. Rep. Whipple, Bot. 4(5; 4): 90 (1857)

Year: 1857

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Whipplea

Vegetable: False

Observations: NW. Washington, Oregon to California

Description

The Common Whipplea, scientifically known as Whipplea modesta, is a delicate and noteworthy plant belonging to the Hydrangeaceae family. First described in detail in 1857 by the botanist Torr. in the “Pacific Railroad Reports” authored by Whipple, this plant has since fascinated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike for its modest yet significant presence in North America.

Common Whipplea is native to northwestern Washington, Oregon, and extends southward to California, thriving in the diverse climates and terrains of these regions. This humble plant is often found in forested areas, where it nestles comfortably, forming low, mat-like growths that add a gentle touch of green to the understory.

Characterized by its small, pale flowers grouped in delicate clusters, Whipplea modesta is not just a visual delight but also an integral part of the local ecosystem. Its subtle beauty and the soft texture of its foliage make it a charming addition to forest landscapes, often going unnoticed yet playing a crucial role in the ecological tapestry of the regions it inhabits.

In summary, the Common Whipplea stands out not for flamboyance, but for its understated elegance and adaptability. Studying this plant offers insights into the rich biodiversity of the Pacific Northwest and California, highlighting the intricate balance of botanical life in these areas.

Common Names

Eng: common whipplea
En: Common whipplea

Synonyms

Distribution

• California (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Washington (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 11, 2004 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 11, 2004 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 11, 2004 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 24, 2020 by Ibnu S. Ibnu S. (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Mar 29, 2014 by EOL − boschniakia (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 29, 2014 by EOL − chelsea dicksion (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 24, 2015 by EOL − Erika Leydig (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 24, 2015 by EOL − Erika Leydig (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 7, 2013 by EOL − Chris Brown (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken Sep 30, 2014 by EOL − Donna Pomeroy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 9, 2014 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

Taken May 11, 2004 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 22, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 24, 2015 by EOL − Erika Leydig (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Jun 9, 2014 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2986071)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:795098-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Whipplea modesta Torr.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Shrub, Subshrub

Growth