Tiny bluet (Houstonia pusilla, Reise Nordamer. Staat. 2: 306 (1788))

Family: Rubiaceae

Author: Schoepf

Bibliography: Reise Nordamer. Staat. 2: 306 (1788)

Year: 1788

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Houstonia

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: C. & SE. U.S.A.

Description

Tiny bluet, scientifically known as Houstonia pusilla, is a delicate and intriguing member of the Rubiaceae family. First described in 1788 by Schoepf, this diminutive plant species has captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike for centuries.

Native to the central and southeastern regions of the United States, Tiny bluet flourishes in the diverse climates and terrains found within these areas. Its presence is often a sign of healthy ecosystems, as it plays a vital role in local biodiversity.

Tiny bluet’s small stature belies its striking beauty. The plant features minute but vividly colored flowers, typically in shades of blue or purple, which often grow in clusters. These blossoms provide not only a visual treat but also offer sustenance to a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Despite its name and size, Houstonia pusilla is a robust and resilient species. It tends to grow in well-drained soils and can often be found in open fields, prairies, and along the edges of wooded areas where it receives ample sunlight. Its ability to thrive in such a variety of habitats demonstrates its adaptability and hardiness.

For those interested in gardening or natural landscaping, Tiny bluet can be an excellent addition due to its low maintenance requirements and its potential to add a splash of color to any green space. Moreover, its role in supporting pollinators can help in promoting a healthier environment and more sustainable gardening practices.

In summary, Tiny bluet is a fascinating plant whose modest size is coupled with an ecological significance and aesthetic appeal. Through its subtle charm and ecological contributions, Houstonia pusilla continues to be a cherished component of North America’s rich botanical heritage.

Common Names

Eng: tiny bluet
En: Tiny bluet

Synonyms

• Hedyotis crassifolia f. albiflora ((Standl.) W.H.Lewis)
• Oldenlandia patens ((Elliott) Chapm.)
• Hedyotis caerulea var. minima ((Beck) Fosberg)
• Hedyotis caerulea var. minor ((Michx.) Torr. & A.Gray)
• Houstonia pusilla f. rosea (Steyerm.)
• Houstonia caerulea var. minor ((Michx.) Pursh)
• Houstonia linnaei var. minor (Michx.)
• Oldenlandia caerulea var. patens ((Elliott) M.Gómez)
• Hedyotis minima ((Beck) Torr. & A.Gray)
• Houstonia minima (Beck)
• Ereicoctis crassifolia (Kuntze)
• Houstonia minor (Britton)
• Houstonia geniculata (Raf.)
• Houstonia pusilla f. albiflora (Standl.)
• Houstonia patens (Elliott)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Florida (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)
• Cuba (introduced)
• Maryland (introduced)
• New York (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Mar 8, 2021 by malot w (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 19, 2020 by jblum (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 3, 2019 by Night Lilly (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 17, 2015 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 21, 2021 by jason zalmanzig (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Apr 6, 2019 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 20, 2022 by herbalismwitch0522 (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Feb 24, 2016 by EOL − Jaime Gonzalez (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 25, 2016 by EOL − grbfrog (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 24, 2016 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 24, 2016 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 28, 2016 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken Mar 12, 2021 by Teresa Teresa (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 13, 2017 by Amber Morgan (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken May 7, 2013 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 28, 2012 by EOL − Brenda Hoffman (cc-by-nc)

© 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/5338804)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30115995-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Houstonia pusilla Schoepf)

Specifications

Growth