Family: Gentianaceae
Author: Nutt.
Bibliography: Trans. Amer. Philos. Soc., n.s., 5: 197 (1835)
Year: 1835
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Sabatia
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & EC. U.S.A.
Description
The Texas star, scientifically known as Sabatia campestris, is a captivating wildflower belonging to the Gentianaceae family. This beautiful plant was first documented in 1835 in the Transactions of the American Philosophical Society. The illustrious botanist Nuttall is credited with its classification.
Primarily found in the central and eastern regions of the United States, Sabatia campestris flourishes in different habitats, making it a fascinating subject for botanists and nature enthusiasts alike. The Texas star draws its name from the characteristic star-shaped blossoms that adorn the landscape with their vibrant presence.
Recognizable by its radiating petals and typically pink to white hues, the Texas star adds a delightful charm to meadows and grasslands, often becoming the point of interest for hikers and those appreciating native flora. While its visual appeal is undeniable, the Texas star also plays an important role in its ecosystem, contributing to the biodiversity and serving as a nectar source for various pollinators.
Growing to an average height, this perennial blooms in the late spring and early summer months, a period during which fields and prairies come alive with its striking display. Its delicate, star-shaped flowers are arranged in a symmetrical pattern that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also an excellent study model for botanical symmetry and form.
In summary, the Texas star (Sabatia campestris) is more than just a picturesque flower; it is a symbol of the rich natural heritage of the central and eastern United States. Its well-documented history and the continued interest in its study reflect the enduring allure and ecological importance of this splendid plant.
Common Names
Eng: texas star, meadow pink, prairie rose gentian
En: Texas star, Texas-Star, Prairie rose gentian, Meadow pink
Synonyms
- Sabatia campestris f. albiflora (J.W.Moore)
Distribution
- Arkansas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maine (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jan 5, 2015 by EOL − Bill Freiheit (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 18, 2015 by EOL − Karen Kroesen (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 3, 2022 by candy Jablonski (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 27, 2020 by m bostic (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 4, 2019 by Cynthia Brinkley (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken May 17, 2022 by McKaila Stafford (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jun 8, 2014 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 30, 2014 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 9, 2014 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 9, 2014 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 13, 2014 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)
© 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/5414501)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:370512-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Sabatia campestris Nutt.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb