Kosteletzkya virginica (L.) C. Presl ex A. Gray - Virginia Saltmarsh Mallow
Family - Malvaceae
Stems:
Leaves:
N/A
Inflorescence:
N/A
Flowers:
Calyx.
Fruit.
Flowering - May - October.
Habitat - Brackish marshes, freshwater marshes.
Origin - Native to North America.
Other information - This attractive and highly variable species can be found in just two coastal Alabama counties. The plant can be identified by its habitat, pointed, typically lobed leaves, and its dark to light pink flowers. The flower size, stem and leaf pubescence, and leaf shape are all variable in this species. K. virginica actually does well in cultivation and will grow outside of its marsh habitat.
The genus name Kosteletzkya is given in honor of Bohemian botanist Vincenz Franz Kosteletzky (1801-1887).
The species epithet means "Virginian, from Virginia."
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken at Salter Path, NC., 9-29-02.