4-24, Xyridaceae, yellow-eyed grass family

Marian C. Munro; Ruth E. Newell; Nicholas M. Hill

Authors

Marian C. Munro Nova Scotia Museum, Halifax, NS
Ruth E. Newell E. C. Smith Herbarium, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Nicholas M. Hill Fernhill Institute, Kentville, Nova Scotia; Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Keywords:

Magnoliophyte, yellow-eyed grass family, monocots, Xyris, yellow-eyed-grass

Abstract

The family includes nearly 300 species in four genera. Only Xyris is found in Nova Scotia. Low-growing plants with simple stems, these herbs may reach 50cm in height. The grasslike leaves are basal and erect. The single inflorescence is borne on a scape. The flowers are terminal on a scaly receptacle. Each has three petals appearing at intervals between the scales of the spike. Photographs by Martin Thomas, Sean Blaney,and David Mazerolle.

Author Biographies

Marian C. Munro, Nova Scotia Museum, Halifax, NS

Curator of Botany (NSPM)

Ruth E. Newell, E. C. Smith Herbarium, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia

Curator of the E. C. Smith Herbarium (ACAD)

Nicholas M. Hill, Fernhill Institute, Kentville, Nova Scotia; Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Director; Adjunct Professor.