Laxleaf yelloweyed grass (Xyris laxifolia, Flora 24(2 Beibl.): 53 (1841))

Family: Xyridaceae

Author: Mart.

Bibliography: Flora 24(2 Beibl.): 53 (1841)

Year: 1841

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Xyris

Vegetable: False

Observations: Trop. & Subtrop. America

Description

Laxleaf yelloweyed grass is an intriguing plant species characterized by its vibrant yellow flowers and distinctive lax leaves. Scientifically known as Xyris laxifolia, this plant is a notable member of the Xyridaceae family.

First documented in the botanical literature “Flora” in 1841 by the renowned botanist Mart., Xyris laxifolia has captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. The species thrives in tropical and subtropical regions across the Americas, where it contributes to the rich biodiversity of these ecosystems.

The laxleaf yelloweyed grass stands out due to its unique morphology. The plant’s leaves are relaxed or “lax,” giving it an almost delicate appearance. Its bright yellow flowers are a hallmark, often catching the eye with their sunny hue, typically blooming in a head that sits atop a slender, erect stem. This combination of structural elegance and vivid coloration makes Xyris laxifolia a distinctive addition to the landscapes it populates.

In its natural habitat, this species contributes to the intricate tapestry of tropical and subtropical American plant life. It’s commonly found in moist, open areas, such as wetlands and along the edges of water bodies, where it plays a role in the ecology of these environments by providing cover and food for various insects and supporting wetland health and stability.

Overall, Xyris laxifolia is a noteworthy species both for its botanical interest and its ecological importance. The study and appreciation of such species highlight the intricate and vital connections within our natural world.

Common Names

Eng: laxleaf yelloweyed grass
En: Laxleaf yelloweyed grass, Lax-Leaf Yellow-Eyed-Grass

Synonyms

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Argentina Northeast (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Bolivia (native)
• Brazil North (native)
• Brazil Northeast (native)
• Brazil South (native)
• Brazil Southeast (native)
• Brazil West-Central (native)
• Colombia (native)
• Costa Rica (native)
• Ecuador (native)
• Florida (native)
• French Guiana (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Guyana (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Panamá (native)
• Paraguay (native)
• Peru (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Suriname (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Uruguay (native)
• Venezuela (native)
• Virginia (native)

Additional Images

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

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

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

Flower

Taken Jul 20, 2015 by OTS – Oviedo-Brenes, Federico (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 20, 2015 by OTS – Oviedo-Brenes, Federico (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 20, 2015 by OTS – Oviedo-Brenes, Federico (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 19, 2022 by Zilli Valtair Zilli (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 19, 2022 by Zilli Valtair Zilli (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jun 23, 2022 by McKaila Stafford (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 23, 2022 by McKaila Stafford (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 20, 2015 by OTS – Oviedo-Brenes, Federico (cc-by-nc-sa)

Other

Taken Jul 20, 2015 by OTS – Oviedo-Brenes, Federico (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:871539-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2692711)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Xyris laxifolia Mart.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth