Phryma leptostachya L.

Locations ofPhryma leptostachya L. in Virginia

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Detail

Family
Phrymaceae
Botanical Name
Phryma leptostachya L.
Common Name
Lopseed, American Lopseed
Synonym(s)
Phryma leptostachya L. var. leptostachya
Flora of Virginia Name/Status
Phryma leptostachya L.
Comments
This species is a relict of the once-extensive Arcto-Tertiary Flora and a classic example of the contemporary eastern Asia-eastern North America disjunct pattern. North American and e. Asian plants differ little morphologically but show considerable DNA divergence. A North American origin of the genus, with subsequent dispersion to eastern Asia 3 to 6 million years ago, has been hypothesized (Nie et al., 2006, Amer. J. Bot. 93: 1343-1356). Given the long separation and current molecular divergence, recognition as separate species seems appropriate.
Habitat
In a wide range of mesic to rather dry upland forests, woodlands, and well-drained floodplain forests; most characteristic of moderately to strongly base-rich soils. Common in the mountains and Piedmont; frequent in the Coastal Plain.
Native Status
Native

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