Branched Bartonia

J. Rouse

Bartonia paniculata

Ontario’s only population of branched bartonia is found in Parry Sound and Muskoka of which there are 7 known sites. Total number of plants is likely between 500 to 1000.

Description

• Spindly plant that is easily overlooked ~40 cm tall but tends to appear shorter since it often grows in sphagnum.
• Tiny white flowers.
• May gain some nutrients from soil fungi.

Habitat

• Found in peat soils in sphagnum bogs, fens, and low shrub bogs, where trees such as Tamarack and Black Spruce grow.

Threats

• Populations are isolated and only one is located on crown land (conservation reserve)
• Invasive shrubs such as black buckthorn.

Conservation Actions

• Bog and fen habitat is important for this plant and other species like the endangered spotted turtle. Support efforts to help maintain these types of wetlands.

Range Map