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Questions and Answers: 2024

Question: Dear Mr. Botanist, I found this pretty little flower growing in a sunny wetland area in Breakheart Reservation, in Reading …

  • Question

    Dear Mr. Botanist, I found this pretty little flower growing in a sunny wetland area in Breakheart Reservation, in Reading MA. These photos were taken a little over a week ago, and the plant itself is a little over a foot tall. Could you please identify?

    Answer

    Dear Stephan, the plant you have photographed is Rhexia virginica (Virginia meadow-beauty). This is a native member of the Melastoma Family. It is very frequent in the habitat you described (open wetlands and shorelines). Best wishes.