Family: Boraginaceae
Author: Michx.
Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1: 134 (1803)
Year: 1803
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Hydrophyllum
Vegetable: False
Observations: SE. Canada to C. & EC. U.S.A.
Description
Great waterleaf, recognized scientifically as Hydrophyllum appendiculatum, is a fascinating species that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. Observed primarily in regions extending from Southeastern Canada to Central and Eastern parts of the United States, this plant has adapted to a variety of environments within these locales.
This species was first documented in the early 19th century, with its description recorded in Michaux’s seminal work, “Flora Boreali-Americana,” published in 1803 (Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1: 134). The meticulous observation and cataloging by Michx. have provided a foundational understanding of this plant.
Great waterleaf is notable for its lush foliage and the ability to thrive in moist, shaded conditions, typically found in woodlands and forest edges. Its leaves are often large and intricately lobed, which contributes to its common name. During its blooming period, it produces clusters of delicate, bell-shaped flowers which add to the visual appeal of the plant and also support local ecosystems by providing nectar for various pollinators.
This plant plays a vital role in its native habitats, contributing to the biodiversity and ecological stability of forest undergrowth. Understanding and preserving Hydrophyllum appendiculatum is essential for maintaining the delicate balance of these environments, highlighting the importance of both historical botanical studies and contemporary conservation efforts.
Common Names
Eng: great waterleaf, appendage waterleaf, appendaged waterleaf
Fra: hydrophylle appendiculé
En: Great waterleaf, Appendage waterleaf, Appendaged waterleaf
Fr: Hydrophylle appendiculé
Synonyms
- Hydrophyllum appendiculatum f. album (Steyerm.)
- Decemium appendiculatum ((Michx.) Brand)
- Nemophila paniculata (Spreng.)
- Decemium hirtum (Raf.)
- Hydrophyllum hispidum ((Raf.) Riddell)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Minnesota (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Ontario (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- West Virginia (native)
- Wisconsin (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken May 7, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 12, 2020 by Donald Huffman (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 15, 2022 by Malissa Laugle (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 4, 2020 by shannon felger (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 16, 2020 by Tim Cameron (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken May 17, 2005 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 7, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 7, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 21, 2021 by Ra hartler (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2022 by Douglas Proops (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 30, 2003 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 24, 2016 by EOL − randomrover88 (cc-by)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − This image is not copyrighted and may be freely used for any purpose. Please credit the artist, original publication if applicable, and the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database. The following format is suggested and will be appreciated: Jennifer Anderson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database If you cite (public)
Taken May 7, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 7, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken May 17, 2008 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 30, 2003 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 7, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2928279)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:432255-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Hydrophyllum appendiculatum Michx.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
