SafePlants

Smooth Yellow False Foxglove

The Smooth Yellow False Foxglove, scientifically known as Aureolaria flava, is also commonly referred to as False Foxglove, Smooth False-foxglove, or Eastern Smooth Oak Leach.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a root parasite of other plants.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Aureolaria flava
• Family: Scrophulariaceae
• Synonyms:
  • Agalinis flava (L.) B. Boivin
  • Aureolaria calycosa (Mack. & Bush) Pennell
  • Aureolaria flava (L.) Farw. ssp. reticulata
• Varieties:
  • Aureolaria flava var. flava
  • Aureolaria flava var. integrifolia
  • Aureolaria flava var. macrantha (note: database entry is currently incomplete)

Distribution and Habitat

• Found in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, including Ontario.
• Observed in Carter County, Mississippi.
• Specific mention of presence in Connecticut, with three similar-looking species of yellow false foxglove.
• Not found in Idaho.

Ecological Role

• Partially parasitic; possesses green tissues and performs photosynthesis. As a perennial, it may be a root parasite of other plants.

Morphological Characteristics

• Herbaceous plant form.
• Perennial lifespan.
• Stem may reach more than 3 feet in length.
• Flowers are yellow, funnel-shaped, and smooth on the outside. Each flower has five 3.5 to 4.5 cm long petals fused into a corolla tube.
• Leaves are noted as having smooth margins and a prominent midvein.

Quirky Facts

• This plant is partially parasitic because it still has green tissues and performs photosynthesis.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The Smooth Yellow False Foxglove acts as a parasite.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens.
• Discover Life: Page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Aureolaria flava.