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Twining screwstem (Bartonia paniculata iodandra)

Description

Twining screwstem is a very inconspicuous annual or biennial that is probably a saprophytic mycotroph, that is, it gets most of its nutrients from a mutualistic fungus that feeds on rotting plant material. There is some speculation that it may be parasitic or hemiparasitic, obtaining nutrients from the roots of other plants through a fungal intermediary, but tests are lacking. It is found in southern New England in swamps, borrow pits and meadows.

Taxonomic tree

  • Domain: Eukarya

    • Kingdom: Plantae

      • Phylum:

        • Class: Magnoliopsida

          • Order: Gentianales

            • Family: Gentianaceae

              • Genus: Bartonia