Crinum americanum
Crinum americanum is an aquatic angiosperm native to North America from Texas to South Carolina, as well as Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Common names for this species include Florida swamp-lily, string lily, and southern swamp crinum. The species grows in small groups in still water habitats.
Crinum species are now members of the family Amaryllidaceae, subfamily Amaryllidoideae; they were formerly placed in the family Liliaceae.
Etymology
The Latin specific epithet americanum refers to the plant's native habitat.
Description
Crinum americanum is a perennial bulb that can grow up to tall. The plant has simple leaves that are up to long and wide. Flowers are fragrant and lily-like with white petals that can sometimes be blushed pink in color. The flower stem grows up to tall and has two to six flowered umbels. The upper portion of the stamen is purple and anthers are also purple in color.
Distribution and habitat
It is native to North America from Texas to South Carolina, as well as Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. It grows in freshwater marshes, cypress swamps, and lake edges.
Conservation
As of November 2024, NatureServe listed Crinum americanum as Secure (G5). This status was last reviewed on 4 August 1988.