Etymology: Melampyrum: from melas for "black" and pyros for "wheat"
Plants: erect, annual, 3"-16" tall forb, usually branched; partially parasitic
Leaves: opposite, mostly entire, linear
Flowers: cream, 5-parted, 1/4"-1/2" long, tubular-cup shape, 4 stamens, upper lip hooded, lower lip 3-lobed and yellow; tube longer than the lips, straight, slightly wider at the end; flowers from the upper leaf axils; blooms July-Aug.
Fruits: flattened, usually 4-seeded capsule
Habitat: moist; forests, bogs; in peaty, rocky, sandy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 7, Wetland Indicator = FAC- USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"