False Mermaidweed
(Floerkea proserpinacoides)
False Mermaidweed (Floerkea proserpinacoides)
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aarongunnar
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
aarongunnar
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: aarongunnar | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: aarongunnar | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2017-04-29T10:31:11-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Floerkea proserpinacoides, commonly known as False Mermaidweed, is an annual herb that is native to moist, shaded forest floors and stream banks in the Western and Central United States, as well as Southeast Canada. It typically grows to a modest height, with stems that may lie flat on the ground, tangle into a clump, or grow somewhat erect. The foliage of False Mermaidweed is distinctive for being hairless and shiny, with leaves that are pinnately divided into many oval-shaped, pointed leaflets up to 2 cm (0.79 in) long. The plant produces inconspicuous flowers in the spring, each consisting of a cup of pointed green sepals and three tiny white spoon-shaped petals, surrounded by a cluster of stamens with yellow anthers. The fruits are bumpy, spherical nutlets that develop in the center of the flower.
False Mermaidweed is not commonly cultivated but can be an interesting addition to native plant gardens or naturalized areas where its delicate foliage and subtle flowers can be appreciated. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter and prefers part shade to full shade conditions. While it is not known for any significant horticultural problems, its preference for moist habitats means it may struggle in dry conditions. This plant is best suited for gardeners interested in native flora and creating habitats for local wildlife.CC BY-SA 4.0
False Mermaidweed is not commonly cultivated but can be an interesting addition to native plant gardens or naturalized areas where its delicate foliage and subtle flowers can be appreciated. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter and prefers part shade to full shade conditions. While it is not known for any significant horticultural problems, its preference for moist habitats means it may struggle in dry conditions. This plant is best suited for gardeners interested in native flora and creating habitats for local wildlife.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.3-1 feet
- Width: 0.09-0.3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention:
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: Medium, High
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Erosion Control, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Moist, shaded forest floors and stream banks
Other Names
Common Names: False Mermaid, Floerkea, Floerkée Fausse-Proserpinie
Scientific Names: , Floerkea proserpinacoides, Floerkea occidentalis, Floerkea palustris, Floerkea uliginosa, Floerkea lacustris, Cabomba pinnata, Nectris pinnata,
GBIF Accepted Name: Floerkea proserpinacoides Willd.