Crinum americanum explained

Crinum americanum is an aquatic angiosperm native to North America from Texas to South Carolina, as well as Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.[1] Common names for this species include Florida swamp-lily, string lily, and southern swamp crinum. The species grows in small groups in still water habitats.

Crinum species are now members of the family Amaryllidaceae, subfamily Amaryllidoideae; they were formerly placed in the family Liliaceae.

Etymology

The Latin specific epithet americanum refers to the plant's native habitat.

Description

Crinum americanum is a perennial bulb that can grow up to 4feet tall.[2] The plant has simple leaves that are up to 4feet long and 3inches wide. Flowers are fragrant and lily-like with white petals that can sometimes be blushed pink in color.[3] The flower stem grows up to 3feet tall and has two to six flowered umbels. The upper portion of the stamen is purple and anthers are also purple in color.

Distribution and habitat

It is native to North America from Texas to South Carolina, as well as Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. It grows in freshwater marshes, cypress swamps, and lake edges.[4]

Conservation

As of November 2024, NatureServe listed Crinum americanum as Secure (G5). This status was last reviewed on 4 August 1988.[5]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Crinum americanum L. Plants of the World Online Kew Science . 2024-10-16 . Plants of the World Online . en.
  2. Web site: Crinum americanum (Crinum Lily, Florida Swamp-Lily, Seven Sisters, Southern Swamp Lily, String Lily) North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox . 2024-10-15 . plants.ces.ncsu.edu.
  3. Web site: Crinum americanum - Plant Finder . 2024-10-16 . www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
  4. Web site: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - The University of Texas at Austin . 2024-10-16 . www.wildflower.org.
  5. Web site: Crinum americanum NatureServe Explorer . NatureServe Explorer . 3 November 2024.