Online Virtual Flora of Wisconsin - Lithospermum latifolium

Lithospermum latifolium Michx.

Family: Boraginaceae

American gromwell, broad-leaved gromwell

Richard Bauer

Derek Anderson

University of Wisconsin - Madison (WIS-VP)

Open Interactive Map

Etymology: Lithospermum: from Greek lithos, "stone," and sperma, "seed"
Plants: erect, perennial, 16"-32" tall forb
Leaves: stalkless or with very short stalks, oval to oblong, usually 3/4"-1 1/2" wide with 2-3 prominent veins on each side
Flowers: yellowish to white, 5-parted, 1/4" wide, funnel-shaped, petals lips smooth; solitary from the upper leaf axils; blooms May-June
Fruits: nutlet white, shiny, egg-shaped, smooth or with slight pits fruit drawing

Habitat: dry to moist; woods, thickets
Conservation Status: Special Concern

Rich, wooded river terraces or swampy depressions in rich forests with sugar maple and red oak, sometimes with beech and elm; wooded drainages and ravines. Primarily found in the easternmost counties, especially around the Milwaukee area; scattered in the southwest.

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 8 WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin listed species including state and federal status, photos, etc. USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos