How to identify Mountain bellwort (Uvularia puberula)

How to identify Mountain bellwort (Uvularia puberula)

Mountain bellwort, also known as Carolina bellwort

Mountain bellwort exhibits distinctive drooping, bell-shaped yellow flowers. Each flower, which is approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, is supported by a slenderly arching stem that stands about 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) tall. The leaves of mountain bellwort are bright green, lanceolate to elliptic, and alternate along the stem, often clasping it. Its surface is lightly textured with fine hairs, especially on the leaf undersides and flower stalks. Its preferred habitat conditions drive a morphology suited to drier environments.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Mountain bellwort

Bright yellow, bell-shaped drooping flowers, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long.

Alternate, lanceolate bright green leaves lightly textured with fine hairs.

Slender stem standing 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) tall, slightly hairy surface.

Distinctive star-like symmetrical flowers with 6 delicate yellow petals.

Elongated, pendulous fruit capsules, green to yellowish, about 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm).

Detailed Traits of Mountain bellwort

Leaf Features

The leaves of mountain bellwort are bright green, stemless, and veined with prominent, parallel veins. They are typically lance-shaped and taper to a point, measuring around 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length. The leaves do not encircle the stem, which is a distinguishing feature. They may have some fine hairs on the underside, adding to their texture. The overall texture is somewhat smooth, but the presence of hairs can make it slightly rough to the touch.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Mountain bellwort features striking yellow flowers that bloom from March to May. These solitary, nodding flowers exhibit six delicate petals each. Each stem of mountain bellwort will proudly bear 1 to 3 such flowers. The petals create a graceful and symmetrical star-like shape when viewed from the side. The flowers typically measure around 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length. Their elegant appearance and vibrant color make mountain bellwort's flowers easily identifiable to plant enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of mountain bellwort is slightly hairy, particularly noticeable upon close inspection. It is generally slender, with a thickness around 0.1-0.2 inches (2.5-5 mm). The color tends to be light green, often with a hint of yellow. The surface is covered with fine, short hairs that give it a somewhat fuzzy texture. The stem exhibits a simple, erect stance with minimal branching, supporting the plant's overall graceful appearance.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of mountain bellwort is a small, capsule-like structure, typically about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in length. It matures from green to a brownish hue as it ages. The texture of the fruit is somewhat rough and slightly hairy. It contains several seeds inside which become visible when the capsule splits open. This splitting mechanism is a key feature for identification, where each segment can open widely as it dries.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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