Stiff greenthread (Thelesperma filifolium, Hooker’s J. Bot. Kew Gard. Misc. 1: 252 (1849))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: (Hook.) A.Gray

Bibliography: Hooker’s J. Bot. Kew Gard. Misc. 1: 252 (1849)

Year: 1849

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Thelesperma

Vegetable: False

Observations: U.S.A. to NE. Mexico

Description

Stiff greenthread, scientifically known as Thelesperma filifolium, is a vibrant perennial plant celebrated for its striking appearance and resilience. This species belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is renowned for its flowering plants. First detailed in 1849 in Hooker’s Journal of Botany and Kew Garden Miscellany, this plant was classified by the botanist Asa Gray following an initial description by William Jackson Hooker.

Native to the United States and extending into northeastern Mexico, stiff greenthread is well-adapted to thrive in various climates within these regions. The plant typically flourishes in open, sunny environments, displaying slender, thread-like leaves from which it derives its common name.

Stiff greenthread’s flowers are a true spectacle, exhibiting bright yellow petals that contribute to its popularity among gardeners and horticulturists. These blossoms not only add aesthetic value to wildflower gardens but also support local ecosystems by attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The plant’s structure is quite distinctive, with its fine, linear foliage providing an airy, delicate appearance. Despite this fragile look, it is remarkably tough and can endure harsh conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and areas prone to drought.

In landscaping, Thelesperma filifolium pairs well with other native species, creating visually appealing and ecologically beneficial plantings. Its adaptability and minimal water requirements make it an environmentally friendly option for sustainable gardening practices.

Stiff greenthread is more than just a floral beauty; it embodies the robust yet delicate harmony of nature, thriving across a range of challenging environments while contributing to the biodiversity of its native regions.

Common Names

Eng: stiff greenthread
En: Stiff greenthread

Synonyms

• Thelesperma trifidum ((Poir.) Britton)
• Thelesperma intermedium (Rydb.)
• Coreopsis trifida (Poir.)
• Cosmidium filifolium ((Hook.) Nutt.)
• Coreopsis filifolia (Hook.)
• Thelesperma filifolium var. intermedium ((Rydb.) Shinners)
• Cosmidium × burridgeanum (Regel)
• Thelesperma intermedium var. rubrodiscum (Shinners)

Distribution

• Arkansas (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Texas (native)
• Wyoming (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Nov 4, 2021 by Georges Olioso (cc-by-sa)

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

Fruit

Taken Nov 4, 2021 by Georges Olioso (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Nov 4, 2021 by Georges Olioso (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3095931)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:255463-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Thelesperma filifolium (Hook.) A.Gray)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth