SafePlants

Valley Redstem (Ammannia coccinea)

The Valley Redstem, scientifically known as Ammannia coccinea, is a native annual forb/herb also recognized by the common names Purple Ammannia and Scarlet Toothcup.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Ammannia coccinea Rottb.
• Family: Lythraceae (Loosestrife Family)
• Synonyms: Ammannia coccinea ssp. purpurea, Ammannia purpurea, Ammannia teres Raf.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is referred to as Scarlet Toothcup, which could be considered if pets ingest the plant.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is referred to as Scarlet Toothcup, which could be considered if children ingest the plant.

Distribution and Habitat

• Valley Redstem is native to North America and found in locations such as Alabama, Arizona, and Montgomery County, Maryland.
• It grows in fresh marshes and on pond margins.
• It is also found in the Sacramento Valley and at Kyker Bottoms Wildlife Refuge.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is an annual plant with long, narrow, opposite leaves.
• It features small deep rose or purple flowers that arise in the leaf axils.
• The flowers are 4-petaled and whorled around the stem at leaf axils.

Ecological Role

• It is a native plant that can be easily overlooked but plays an important ecological role.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The valley grasshopper feeds on redstem filaree.

Resources and Further Information

• Plants of Hawaii (by Forest and Kim Starr)
• Discover Life
• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Dave's Garden