Xerophyllum (plant)

Xerophyllum
Xerophyllum tenax
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Monocots
Order: Liliales
Family: Melanthiaceae
Tribe: Xerophylleae
Genus: Xerophyllum
Michx.

Xerophyllum is a genus of perennial plants from the family Melanthiaceae. The genus is native to North America.[1]

There are two species:[2][3]

  • Xerophyllum asphodeloides (Pursh) Nutt. - southern Appalachians from Alabama to Maryland; also Delaware + New Jersey
  • Xerophyllum tenax (Pursh) Nutt. - Alberta, British Columbia, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Washington, Oregon, N + W California

Some species formerly placed in this genus have been transferred to others (within the tribe Melanthieae):[2]

The elongated leaves of X. tenax, commonly known as bear grass, are used for basket weaving by the Native Americans. Xerophyllum asphodeloides, also known as turkey's beard, is a popular garden plant, producing spikes of white flowers.

References

  1. ^ Utech, Frederick H., "Xerophyllum", in Flora of North America Editorial Committee (ed.), Flora of North America (online), eFlora.org, retrieved 2012-04-29
  2. ^ a b Search for "Xerophyllum", World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, retrieved 2012-04-29
  3. ^ Biota of North America Program 2013 county distribution maps