Back to the Species at Risk main page.
Branched Bartonia
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.
COSEWIC Status: Threatened
COSSARO Status: Threatened
J. Rouse
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
Photo Gallery
Credit: Jeremy Rouse
For more information about the Branched Bartonia in the Georgian Bay area, contact:
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
SAR Biologist
7 Bay Street
Parry Sound, Ontario
P2A 1S4
Phone:
705-746-4201