Largeseed forget-me-not (Myosotis macrosperma, Amer. J. Sci. Arts 46: 98 (1844))

Family: Boraginaceae

Author: Engelm.

Bibliography: Amer. J. Sci. Arts 46: 98 (1844)

Year: 1844

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Myosotis

Vegetable: False

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

Description

The Largeseed forget-me-not, scientifically known as Myosotis macrosperma, is an enchanting wildflower belonging to the Boraginaceae family. These delicate plants grace the landscapes of southeastern Canada, extending their presence to central and eastern regions of the United States.

First described in 1844 by botanist Georg Engelmann, Myosotis macrosperma has been an object of fascination due to its charming blooms and robust seeds. The flower’s common name, “Largeseed forget-me-not,” is inspired by its notably large seeds compared to other species within the genus.

Thriving in a variety of habitats, from moist woodlands to open meadows, the Largeseed forget-me-not is a resilient and adaptable plant. It is commonly found growing alongside streams and in damp soil, making it a staple of North American flora. The plant’s petite, sky-blue flowers, characterized by their five-petal arrangement and central yellow eye, form clusters that captivate the eye and evoke a sense of delicacy and grace.

Despite its delicate appearance, Myosotis macrosperma is known for its hardiness. The robust seeds ensure successful propagation and widespread distribution, contributing to the plant’s resilience against environmental challenges. Garden enthusiasts often cherish these flowers for their subtle beauty and the nostalgic sentiment they evoke, as the name “forget-me-not” brings forth associations of enduring affection and remembrance.

In summary, the Largeseed forget-me-not (Myosotis macrosperma) is a plant of not just botanical interest, but also of cultural and aesthetic significance. It stands out in the rich tapestry of North American wildflowers, symbolizing the enduring beauty of nature and the intertwining of flora with human sentiment.

Common Names

Eng: largeseed forget-me-not, southern forget-me-not, large-seed forget-me-not
Fra: myosotis à grosses graines
En: Largeseed forget-me-not, Southern forget-me-not, Large-seed forget-me-not
Fr: Myosotis à grosses graines

Synonyms

• Myosotis virginica var. macrosperma ((Engelm.) Fernald)
• Myosotis verna var. macrosperma ((Engelm.) Chapm.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Delaware (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Apr 3, 2015 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 14, 2016 by EOL − Laura Clark (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 23, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2021 by Alyssa Driscoll (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 25, 2021 by Mari Carmen Quesada (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jun 22, 2017 by Lisa J (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 22, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Habit

Taken Apr 10, 2016 by EOL − Nina (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 13, 2016 by EOL − anewman (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 16, 2015 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 23, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2021 by Alyssa Driscoll (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 23, 2006 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 30, 2016 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 14, 2016 by EOL − Laura Clark (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 21, 2020 by Bryn Downer (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2021 by Alyssa Driscoll (cc-by-sa)

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

© 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/5341172)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:119108-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Myosotis macrosperma Engelm.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth