Family – Euphorbiaceae
Stems:
Leaves:
N/A
Inflorescence:
Flowers:
Flowering – May – July.
Habitat – Sandhills, flatwoods, sandy old fields.
Origin – Native to North America.
Other information – This unique species can be found in the southeastern corner of Alabama. The plant is easy to identify becasue of its many shiny, green leaves, light green-yellow stems, and terminal inflorescences. The stems can be erect or ascending and only branch directly below the inflorescence.
The genus name Stillingia is given in honor of Dr. Benjamin Stillingfleet (1702-1771). Stillingfleet was an English writer and naturalist. He produced quite a large number of works.
The species epithet sylvatica derives from the Latin “sylv(a)” meaning “woods, forests” referring to the habitat of the plant.
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken off Lee Rd 10, Auburn, AL., 6-5-05.