Lithospermum caroliniense Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Family – Boraginaceae

Stems:

Leaves:

Inflorescence:

N/A

Flowers:

Calyx.

Flowering – March – June.

Habitat – Sandhills, sandy fields, sandy roadsides.

Origin – Native to North America.

Other information – This striking species can be found remotely scattered throughout Alabama but is most common in the southern portions of the state where its sandhill habitat is more frequent. The plant is easy to identify becasue of its erect, hispid-hairy stems, crowded leaves, and many yellow to yellow-orange flowers. This species grows from seed and would make a fantastic garden subject in dry, well-drained soil conditions.
The genus name Lithospermum derives from the Greek “lith(o)” meaning “a stone” and “sperm(a)” meaning “seed” referring to the hard, stone-like seeds of this genus.
The species epithet caroliniense means “of carolina.”

Alabama Distribution:

Photographs taken at Fort Benning, GA., 5-6-05.