Family: Eriocaulaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 87 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Eriocaulon
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: E. U.S.A. to C. America
Description
The Tenangle pipewort, scientifically known as Eriocaulon decangulare, is a fascinating plant member of the Eriocaulaceae family. This unique species was first described in the literature Sp. Pl.: 87 (1753) by the author L.
With a native range extending from the Eastern United States down to Central America, the Tenangle pipewort thrives in a variety of environments. The plant is predominantly found in wetlands, marshes, and other moist habitats where it contributes to the local biodiversity.
Eriocaulon decangulare is distinguished by its small, spherical white flowers that cluster at the tips of slender, erect stems. These delicate blooms are not only visually striking but also adapted to the wet conditions of their native habitats. The leaves of the Tenangle pipewort are typically narrow and grassy, forming a basal rosette that adds to its delicate appearance.
This species plays a vital ecological role, often forming part of complex plant communities that support a myriad of wildlife. It offers shelter and nutrition to numerous aquatic and semi-aquatic organisms.
In addition to its ecological significance, Eriocaulon decangulare is of interest to botanists and plant enthusiasts for its unique morphology and adaptability. The study of this plant provides insights into the broader functioning of wetland ecosystems and the evolutionary adaptations that enable plants to thrive in such environments.
The Tenangle pipewort, with its elegant structure and vital ecological contributions, exemplifies the intricate beauty and complexity present within the plant kingdom. Its enduring presence from the Eastern U.S.A. to Central America underscores the importance of conserving the diverse habitats it calls home.
Common Names
Eng: tenangle pipewort
En: Tenangle pipewort, Ten-Angle Pipewort
Synonyms
- Eriocaulon decemangulare (Kunth)
- Randalia decangularis ((L.) P.Beauv. ex Desv.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Belize (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jul 18, 2021 by Rivera Rivera (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken May 16, 2019 by Mary Mary Heyman (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 11, 2016 by EOL − anewman (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Howard, R.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Apr 11, 2016 by EOL − anewman (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2690647)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:276727-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Eriocaulon decangulare L.)