Valley Redstem

Valley Redstem (Ammannia coccinea)

       Commonly known as Valley Redstem, Purple Ammannia and Scarlet Toothcup the Valley Redstem (Ammannia coccinea) a member of the Loosetrife (Lythraceae) family, found primarily in the eastern half of the United States, is also found in California, New Mexico and Arizona. This native plant, blooming summer through fall and found in moist/muddy areas including pond and stream margins, is considered threatened in Pennsylvania and weedy in other areas of it range.
       Growing to 12 inches and taller, found sprawling or upright, the Valley Redstem produce ¼-inch purple to pink, four petaled flowers found at the leaf axis. Lance shaped leaves, found opposite along the stems, are two inches and longer and ¼ inch wide becoming wider near the stem.
       Note: Unlike the non-native Purple Loosetrife (Lythrum salicaria) also in the Loosetrife (Lythraceae) family and considered a noxious weed in many states, the Valley Redstem is not on the most unwanted list.

Photos taken at Sutton Wilderness in Norman, Oklahoma