Virginia bunchflower (Melanthium virginicum L.) is known historically from wet-mesic prairie in 17 counties located primarily in west-central Illinois. Due to the loss of wet-mesic prairie, plants within six counties were extirpated during the 1800s, and populations within an additional six counties were extirpated within the last 15 years. This taxon is currently known from thirteen populations in three counties. These populations were studied over a three year period, beginning in 1998 and ending in 2000. Flowering varied considerably from year to year. Although large bunchflower colonies remain that contain over 800 plants, only two populations are currently protected. Population loss is expected to continue, documenting the need for greater protection and the introduction of this plant into suitable wet-mesic prairie restorations within its historic range.
Castanea publishes peer-reviewed papers relating to all aspects of botany in the entire eastern United States and adjoining areas. The journal encourages submissions of scientific papers dealing with basic research in any field of plant biology, systematics, floristics, ecology, physiology and biochemistry. Castanea serves professional and amateur botanists from across the country who are interested in eastern botany.
The Southern Appalachian Botanical Society publishes papers relating to the botany of the Eastern United States. In addition, as the official publication of the Society, news and information of interest to the membership is also contained within the pages of this quarterly publication. Castanea was first published in 1936.
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Castanea
© 2002 Southern Appalachian Botanical Society