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twoheaded water-starwort

Scientific Name: Callitriche heterophylla ssp. heterophylla

Family: Callitrichaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Twoheaded Water-starwort (Callitriche heterophylla)

Callitriche heterophylla, commonly known as Twoheaded Water-starwort, is a small aquatic herb found in various regions. This page provides details about its classification, distribution, morphology, and other relevant information.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Callitriche heterophylla Pursh
  • Common Names: Twoheaded Water-starwort, Larger Waterstarwort, Northern Water Starwort, Great Water Starwort, Variedleaf Waterstarwort, Differentleaf Waterstarwort, Bolander's Water Starwort, Diverse-leaved Water Starwort
  • Family: Plantaginaceae (formerly Callitrichaceae - Water-Starwort Family)
  • Rank: Species; Subspecies (e.g., Callitriche heterophylla Pursh ssp. heterophylla, Callitriche heterophylla ssp. bolanderi)
  • Synonyms: Callitriche bolanderi is listed as a synonym for Callitriche heterophylla ssp. bolanderi, Callitriche verna is listed as a synonym for Callitriche palustris.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to North America (L48, AK).
  • Observed in St. Mary's Co., Maryland; Mt. Nebo WMA, Garrett Co. MD; Orange County, California.
  • Found in locations such as Beaver Valley and possibly bogs.
  • Prefers gravelly/stony substrates.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Aquatic herb with smooth, branching stems.
  • Classified as a forb/herb (a non-woody plant).
  • Flowering period: April - July.
  • Flower characteristics: green or white flowers arranged in an axillary pattern.

Ecological Role

  • Mentioned in the context of river restoration and the Water Framework Directive, suggesting a role in aquatic ecosystems.
  • Its presence can indicate increased coverage and faster flowing water in restoration sites.

Additional Information

  • USDA Symbol: CAHE3

Resources

  • Discover Life offers pages about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Callitriche heterophylla.
  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database.
  • Water Starworts: Callitriche of Europe (Landsdown 2009).