Micranthes scopularum
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| Micranthes scopularum | |
|---|---|
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| Full-plant view of Micranthes scopularum at the type locality, Wadakoe Mountain. | |
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| Close-up view of Micranthes scopularum inflorescence, note the long stamens and dark orange anthers | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Micranthes |
| Species: | M. scopularum |
| Binomial name | |
| Micranthes scopularum Hall, Lanning & Mathews | |
Micranthes scopularum is a species of flowering plant in the family Saxifragaceae. It is endemic to the Blue Ridge Escarpment region of South Carolina in the southeastern United States. The species was formally described in 2025 and is considered a narrow endemic likely of hybrid origin.[1]
Micranthes scopularum is a perennial herbaceous plant with basal leaves and erect flowering stems reaching approximately 12–26 cm in height.[1]
The leaves are variable in shape, ranging from ovate to orbicular, with crenate to serrate margins. The plant produces white, radially symmetrical flowers arranged in loose inflorescences. The petals lack spots and spread at anthesis.[1]
It is distinguished from closely related species by its long stamens (2.2–3.6 mm), which are more than half the length of the petals and extend beyond them, as well as its reddish-orange anthers.[1] Unlike Micranthes virginiensis, which has shorter stamens and yellow anthers, M. scopularum shows consistent floral differences.[1]
Taxonomy
The species was described in 2025 based on morphological and cytological evidence.[1]
It is thought to be of hybrid origin, likely derived from crosses between Micranthes virginiensis and Micranthes careyana.[1] Chromosome counts indicate that the species is tetraploid (n = 19), supporting a possible allopolyploid origin.[1]
Distribution and habitat
Micranthes scopularum is known from only two populations in northwestern South Carolina, specifically in Pickens and Greenville counties.[1]
It grows on moss-covered rocks in moist, shaded environments within rich cove forests, typically at elevations around 340 meters. These habitats are associated with the Blue Ridge Escarpment, a region known for high biodiversity and endemism.[1]
Phenology
The species flowers from late February to early April and fruits from mid-April to early May.[1]
Conservation
Due to its extremely limited distribution, Micranthes scopularum is considered a narrow endemic species. Only two populations are currently known, though parts of both occur within protected public lands. The long-term conservation status remains uncertain.[1]