Stylodon carneus (Medik.) Moldenke - Carolina False Vervain
Family - Verbenaceae
Stems:
Leaves:
Inflorescence:
N/A
Flowers:
Flowering - April - July.
Habitat - Xeric sandhills, dry hammocks, thin, sandy woods.
Origin - Native to North America.
Other information - This attractive species can be found mainly in the southern half of Alabama in counties that have dry sandy soils. The plant can be identified by its square, pubescent stems, opposite, rugose leaves, and long spikes of flowers. The spikes typically make up more than half the plant. The flowers are whitish in bright sun but typically fade to pink or pinkish-lavender.
The genus name Stylodon derives from the Greek "styl(o)" meaning "a pillar, stake, column, pointed instrument." Although I do not know the actual reason for the naming of the genus, it can be assumed it was named for the long inflorescence.
The species epithet carneus derives from the Latin "carn(eo)" meaning "flesh-colored" probably referring to the flowers.
Synonyms for the plant include Verbena carnea Medicus and Stylodon caroliniensis (Walt.) Small
The current name is frequently spelled S. carneum also.
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken at Fort Benning, GA., 5-6-05.