KNP Rare Plants Database


 
KY Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves




Virginia Bunchflower
Melanthium virginicum
Family: Liliaceae

Protection Status:
State Status:  E
USFWS Status: 

Global Rank: G5
State Rank: S1

   

Photo by Dennis D. Horn @ TENN
Habitat:
Wet acidic seepages and meadows.

Species Description:
Perennial herb.

Phenology:
Flowering Period: Early June to late August.
Fruiting Period: Early August to late October.

Additional Information at NatureServe

Diagnostic Characteristics:
The basal leaves of Melanthium virginianum are grasslike and < 3 cm wide. The plants are 7-15 dm in height. The pale-green tepals are glandular with colored spots at the base and abruptly narrowed and staked (or clawed in shape). The rachis is pubescent.

Management:
Timber removal would be detrimental. Exotic pest plants are a threat to this species and should be removed. Avoid creating access to the site through trail or road construction.


Global Range:


Known Kentucky Occurrences:
Species occurrence map

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Data Last Updated: November 2018
Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves
300 Sower Blvd
Frankfort,KY 40601
Phone: (502) 573-2886
Email:
naturepreserves@ky.gov
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