Indian-paint (Lithospermum canescens, Pl. Asperif. Nucif.: 305 (1818))

Family: Boraginaceae

Author: (Michx.) Lehm.

Bibliography: Pl. Asperif. Nucif.: 305 (1818)

Year: 1818

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lithospermum

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: C. & E. Canada to C. & E. U.S.A.

Description

Indian-paint, scientifically known as Lithospermum canescens, is a captivating member of the Boraginaceae family. This plant boasts a rich history and a striking appearance that earns it a cherished spot in North American flora.

Lithospermum canescens first captivated botanists’ interest in the early 19th century, with its initial classification detailed in “Pl. Asperif. Nucif.” by 1818. Credited to Michaux, the species was later revised by Lehmann, solidifying its place in botanical records.

The Indian-paint thrives across diverse regions from Central and Eastern Canada extending into the Central and Eastern United States. This widespread habitat reflects its adaptability and robust nature, allowing it to flourish in varied climates and soils found across these extensive North American territories.

This plant is noted for its vibrant, orange-yellow flowers that resemble the meticulous brush strokes of an artist, hence its common name—Indian-paint. The blossoms can light up woodlands and prairies, offering a vivid splash of color that is a feast for the eyes. The leaves and stems of Lithospermum canescens are coated in fine hairs, giving them a grayish or canescent appearance, which contributes to the species’ unique visual texture and serves as a distinguishing feature.

Indian-paint is more than just a beautiful addition to the landscape; it plays a role in supporting local ecosystems. It attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, aiding in the propagation of numerous other plant species and maintaining biodiversity within its habitat.

In addition to its ecological functions, Lithospermum canescens has been linked to various traditional practices. Indigenous cultures have historically utilized different parts of the plant for medicinal purposes, showcasing its significance beyond ornamental value.

Understanding Lithospermum canescens allows for greater appreciation of not just its beauty but also its role in nature and human culture. Whether encountered in the wild or cultivated in gardens, Indian-paint continues to be a living testament to the diverse and intricate web of life within the Boraginaceae family.

Common Names

Eng: indian-paint, hoary gromwell, hoary puccoon, puccoon
Fra: grémil blanchâtre
En: Indian-paint, Hoary puccoon, Puccoon, Hoary gromwell
Fr: Grémil blanchâtre

Synonyms

• Lithospermum sericeum (Lehm.)
• Batschia conspicua (R.Br.)
• Batschia canescens (Michx.)
• Batschia sericea (Roem. & Schult.)
• Lithospermum conspicuum (Spreng.)
• Lithospermum canescens f. pallidum (E.J.Palmer & Steyerm.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 12, 2020 by miles eStelle (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 9, 2021 by Lawrence Chu (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 26, 2021 by Ryan Heaney (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 7, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 13, 2020 by Aurea Torres (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 24, 2020 by Laurie Tanenbaum (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 7, 2020 by river eden (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 11, 2019 by Boom Betty (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 7, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Habit

Taken May 4, 2014 by EOL − Milo Pyne (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 14, 2013 by EOL − Suzanne Cadwell (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 3, 2013 by EOL − charlabeck (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 12, 2013 by EOL − Ron Edwards (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 3, 2014 by EOL − paloma (cc-by-nc)

Bark

Taken Apr 7, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2926090)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:117981-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lithospermum canescens (Michx.) Lehm.)

Specifications

Growth