Valerianella umbilicata Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Family – Valerianaceae

Stems:

Leaves:

Leaf margin.

Inflorescence:

N/A

Flowers:

Flowering – March – May.

Habitat – Fields, roadsides, waste places, low ground.

Origin – Native to North America.

Other information – This species has been reported from just two north Alabama counties. The plant can be identified by its opposite leaves, fairly large flowers (for the genus), and non-ciliate floral bracts. This is a larger plant the more common V. radiata (L.) Dufr.
The genus name Valerianella means “little Valerian”. It derives from the Latin “valerian”, the ancient name for Valerian, and from “ell(a)” meaning “small”.
The species epithet is derived from the Latin “umbilic” meaning “the navel”, referring to the fruits.

Alabama Distribution:

Photographs taken near Tom’s Creek, NC., 4-20-03.