Family – Polemoniaceae
Stems:
Leaves:
Adaxial surface of leaf.
Abaxial surface of leaf.
Inflorescence:
N/A
Flowers:
Calyx.
Flowering – May – July.
Habitat – Deciduous woods, savannahs, thickets, roadsides.
Origin – Native to North America.
Other information – This attractive species can be found scattered throughout much of Alabama. The plant is not as common as other members of the genus.
P. carolina can be somewhat difficult to differentiate from other species. Here are a few characteristics to look for with this plant:
1.) Erect, mostly simple stems.
2.) Opposite leaves which are shiny above and light golden-green below.
4.) Mostly corymbose to sub-cylindric inflorescence.
3.) Typically glabrous calices.
4.) Slightly exserted anthers.
The genus name Phlox is the Greek word for “flame” and was the ancient name of another genus, Lychnis.
The species epithet means “of Carolina.”
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken at Tuskegee National Forest, AL., 6-8-05.