Parnassia glauca, commonly known as fen grass of Parnassus or fen starflower, is a species of flowering plant native to the northern hemisphere. It is a herbaceous perennial that grows in wet meadows, fens, bogs, and swamps. The plant produces a single stem that can grow up to 80 cm tall and bears a single white flower about 3 cm in diameter. The plant blooms in mid to late summer.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Parnassia |
Appearance
The leaves of Parnassia glauca are basal and form a rosette at the base of the stem. They are ovate to lanceolate in shape, with a length of 7-15 cm and a width of 1.5-5 cm. The leaves are smooth and have a waxy texture. The stem is erect, smooth, and unbranched. The flower of Parnassia glauca is white and has five petals that are obovate in shape. The flower has a yellow center and a green ovary at the base. The fruit is a capsule that contains many seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Parnassia glauca prefers moist soil but can tolerate occasional dryness. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.
Fertilization: Parnassia glauca does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial.
Soil: Parnassia glauca prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH between 5.5 and 7.0.
Sunlight: Parnassia glauca prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may not flower as well.
Hardiness Zones: Parnassia glauca is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Parnassia glauca is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or rust.
Habitat
Parnassia glauca is native to the northern hemisphere and can be found in wet meadows, fens, bogs, and swamps. It is commonly found in Alaska, Canada, and the northern parts of the United States. The plant prefers cool, moist environments and can tolerate wet soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Parnassia glauca a good plant for a water garden?
A: Yes, Parnassia glauca can be grown in a water garden as long as the water is not too deep.
Q: Does Parnassia glauca attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Parnassia glauca is pollinated by bees and flies.
Q: How often should Parnassia glauca be fertilized?
A: Parnassia glauca does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial.
Q: Can Parnassia glauca tolerate full shade?
A: Yes, Parnassia glauca can tolerate full shade but may not flower as well.
Related Plants
- Parnassia palustris
- Parnassia asarifolia
- Parnassia fimbriata
- Parnassia caroliniana
References
- USDA Plants Database: Parnassia glauca
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Parnassia glauca
- North Carolina State University Extension: Fen Starflower
