SafePlants

Gratiola amphiantha (Little Amphianthus, Pool Sprite, Snorkelwort)

Gratiola amphiantha is a rare flowering plant also known by the common names little amphianthus, pool sprite, and snorkelwort.

Considerations for Pets and Children:

• This plant is small and delicate, with small flowers, which could pose a choking hazard for small children or pets if ingested.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature:

• Accepted Scientific Name: Gratiola amphiantha D. Estes & R.L. Small (2008)
• Synonym: Amphianthus pusillus Torr.
• Family: Scrophulariaceae
• Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat:

• Gratiola amphiantha inhabits rock-rimmed solution pools in outcrop communities.
• It is found in granite outcrops, particularly in the Georgia Piedmont region.
• Its range includes the Gulf Coastal Plain, Piedmont, and Ridge and Valley physiographic provinces of Alabama and Georgia.

Morphological Characteristics:

• It is a small, delicate, greenish-purple aquatic annual plant.
• It typically grows to a height of 5-10 centimeters (2-4 inches).
• The lower, submerged leaves are thin and narrow.
• Each small flower has 4-5 minute, greenish-yellow petals.

Conservation Status:

• The Little Amphianthus is on the U.S. Endangered Species List.
• It is classified as threatened in Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina.

Quirky Facts:

• The name "little amphianthus" is considered a silly translation of the scientific name.
• In 1988, the presence of Little Amphianthus caused a two-year halt to a sewer project.

Further Information:

• Encyclopedia of Life: Includes media and articles about the Little Amphianthus (Gratiola amphiantha).
• Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Amphianthus pusillus.
• International Plant Names Index: Lists Amphianthus pusillus Torr. as a synonym of Gratiola amphiantha D. Estes & R.L. Small.
• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): Provides information on plant distribution.