Herb-Paris
What are they?
The Melanthiaceae is a family of 14 genera of plants, mostly spread across the temperate and warm temparate/subtropical zones of the northern hemisphere. The majority of species occur naturally in North America and eastern Asia but a handful make it into Europe, with just one - Herb-Paris - reaching the UK. These are liliaceous plants, with flower parts typically in threes or sixes and often with rather broad leaves compared with other, lily-like plants. The family most famously includes the Trilliums of North America.
Where are they found?
Our single member of this family is a denizen of well-managed woodland and is a good indicator species of ancient woodland.
Identification
This is a unique species in the East Anglian region and is readily recognised by its frill of four, broad leaves encircling the stem, above which sits a solitary, highly unusual flower.
Herb-Paris Paris quadrifolia
An uncommon and declining native perennial of old woodland, favouring damp, shady places on chalky soils or boulder clay. Flowers April to August. The majority of plants have four, broad leaves encircling the stem and the flowers have eight, bract-like, green petals arranged in two rows of four and eight, spear-like stamens. There may be three to eight leaves on some plants and there may be up to 12 stamens. The flower is followed by a black, berry-like capsule.
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