Jeffersonia diphylla
Table of Contents
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: Plantae |
| Phylum: Tracheophyta |
| Class: Magnoliopsida |
| Order: Ranunculales |
| Family: Berberidaceae |
| Genus: Jeffersonia |
| Species: Jeffersonia diphylla |
Conservation Status
Identifying Features
Twinleaf typically grows to a height of 8 inches tall. It produces a single, white or pale pink flowers on seperate stalks from the leaves. Each flower has 8-10 petals that surround a golden center. The twinleaf has distinct leaves are large and deeply divided in the center. The leaves are fan-shaped, with rounded lobes, and continue to persist after the flower has died.
Habitat & Range
Twinleaf can be found in moist, shaded woods. It is native to eastern North America and can be found in scattered populations throughout eastern US and Canada.
Behavior
Twinleaf is adapted to grow in moist, shady environments. If the area become too dry or too sunny, the twinleaf may go dormant earlier than usual. During dormancy, the leaves and stems die back to the ground and the plant conserves energy for the following spring for re-growth.
Life Cycle
After the seeds of the twinleaf are dispersed, they will germinate and begin to grow in a suitable envrionment. The plant produces flowers in the spring, typically between April-May. After flowering, the plant enters a period of dormancy in the summer months.
Featured image by James Dake.