Marsh grass of Parnassus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Marsh grass of Parnassus |
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| Scientific classification | |
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Parnassia
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| Species: |
palustris
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Parnassia palustris, commonly called marsh grass of Parnassus, northern grass-of-Parnassus, or just grass-of-Parnassus, and bog star, is a flowering plant in the staff-vine family Celastraceae.
It is the county flower of Cumberland in England, and appears on its flag.
The name comes from ancient Greece: evidently the cattle on Mount Parnassus appreciated the plant; hence it was an "honorary grass". The species epithet palustris is Latin for "of the marsh" and indicates its common habitat. It was described by the Greek physician Dioscorides, growing up a mountain in 1st century A.D.
Contents
Description
It is not a grass, nor does it look like one, but grows from a short underground stem. It has long stemmed heart-shaped leaves, which are 4-12 in (10–30 cm) long. In the centre of the leaf, is the flowering stem. The stem holds a solitary white flower, blooming between July and October. The flower has 5 stamens around the centre. The flower produces a honey-like scent to attract pollinators.
Range and distribution
Parnassia palustris is native to northern temperate parts of Eurasia. Found in wet moorlands and marshes of northern England and Scotland.
Uses
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It was once used in herbal medicines, to treat disorders of the liver. Also an infusion of the leaves, (similar to a tea) was used to treat indigestion. When added to wine or water, the leaves are claimed to dissolve kidney stones.
See also
In Spanish: Hepática blanca para niños
