Micranthes odontoloma

Micranthes odontoloma 18469

Micranthes odontoloma is a species of flowering plant in the Saxifragaceae family, known by the common name Brook Saxifrage or Brook Foam. It is native to the western United States, where it is found in moist, mountainous regions. This plant is characterized by its rosette of basal leaves and tall, slender stems that bear small, white flowers. The leaves are typically toothed or lobed, which is reflected in the species name odontoloma, derived from the Greek words for "tooth" and "edge", referring to the toothed leaves.

Description

Micranthes odontoloma is a perennial herb that grows from a caudex with fibrous roots. The basal leaves are 1-3 cm long, broadly ovate to round, with a crenate or serrate margin. The flowering stems can reach up to 20 cm in height, bearing clusters of small, white flowers. Each flower has five petals, five sepals, and ten stamens. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous small seeds.

Habitat and Distribution

This species is found in the western United States, including parts of the Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevada, and the Cascade Range. It prefers moist, shaded habitats, often near streams or in wet meadows at elevations from 1000 to 3000 meters.

Ecology

Micranthes odontoloma plays a role in its ecosystem by providing nectar and pollen for a variety of pollinating insects. Its presence in moist, mountainous habitats contributes to the biodiversity of these areas, supporting the ecological balance.

Conservation

Currently, there are no major threats to Micranthes odontoloma reported, and it does not appear on any endangered species lists. However, like many alpine and montane species, it could be vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, which may alter the moisture regimes and temperatures of its native habitats.

Cultivation

While not commonly cultivated, Micranthes odontoloma can be grown in gardens that can mimic its natural moist, cool environment. It requires well-drained soil and partial to full shade. This species can be used in rock gardens or as part of native plant gardens to attract pollinators.

See Also

• Saxifragaceae
• Alpine plant
• Pollination