Selenia
Nutt., 1825
golden selenia
Selenia is a of flowering plants in the mustard (Brassicaceae), to central North America. The genus includes such as Selenia aurea (golden selenia), which is known for its brilliant flowers and restricted distribution. In Missouri, Selenia aurea is limited to a handful of counties in the southwestern part of the state, where it occurs primarily in glade . The genus is notable for forming large colonies with spectacular floral displays when conditions are favorable.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Selenia: /sɛˈleɪ.ni.ə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Selenia can be distinguished from other Brassicaceae by their combination of flowers and restricted glade associations. Selenia aurea specifically is recognized by its brilliant yellow flowers and small stature. The is distinguished from the similar-sounding genus Selenia () by its and habitat.
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Habitat
Selenia occur in glade , including sandstone and limestone glades. In Missouri, Selenia aurea is primarily found in sandstone glades in the southwestern part of the state. These habitats are characterized by exposed bedrock, thin soils, and full sun exposure.
Distribution
Selenia is to central North America. Selenia aurea is restricted to a handful of counties in southwestern Missouri and has a similar range to Texas saxifrage (Micranthes texana) in the United States. The has been documented at sites including Corry Branch Glade in Dade County, Missouri.
Seasonality
Selenia aurea blooms in spring. Observations from Missouri indicate flowering occurs in early to mid-spring, with plants forming spectacular displays during this period.
Human Relevance
Selenia aurea is of interest to botanists and naturalists due to its restricted distribution and striking floral displays. The has been the subject of nature photography efforts, including wide-angle macro photography techniques. It is not known to have significant economic or medicinal uses.
Similar Taxa
- Micranthes texana (Texas saxifrage)Both share a similar restricted range in southwestern Missouri and occur in glade , though they belong to different (Brassicaceae vs. Saxifragaceae).
- Selenia (moth genus)Homonymous of in ; distinguished by being an animal rather than , with completely different and .
More Details
Conservation Status
Selenia aurea has a Coefficient of Conservatism (CC) value of 6 in Missouri, indicating it is somewhat conservative in its preferences but not as restricted as some co-occurring glade .