Phyrma leptostachya - American Lopseed

Sizes available: 2.5 x 2.5 x 3.5" pot, well-rooted

Basics: zones 3-8, 1-3' x part to full shade, summer bloomer, numerous tiny, tubular, white (sometimes pale pink) flowers on thin stems, likes medium moist to moister nutritious woodland soil.

Common names: American lop-seed

Family: Phyrmaceae

Origin/Distribution: eastern North America (also parts of Asia), native to Maine, but rare and possibly extirpated. This plant has been found in a small area in Somerset and Kennebec counties. It is at the northernmost of its current range in Maine and is probably decreasing due to habitat loss as wet forests are cleared and filled in for housing and agriculture. 

Habitat: found in seasonally wet areas, low forested land, deciduous woodlands, and along shady waterways.

More: looks like a mini-fireworks festival in bloom. Attracts small pollinators. Elegant shade-lover.

Source: grown for seed at Honey Petal Plants, seed source info coming soon.

Image credits: courtesy of Prairie Moon Nursery