Virginia Buttonweed (Diodia virginiana)

Diodia virginiana is one of two Diodia species that grow in this area; Diodia teres (Poor Joe) is the other. Diodia virginiana is known by the common name Virginia Buttonweed. It grows widely in this area. At Fort Yargo State Park it grows in open areas: at the boat launch at Section B (segment 17) and along the trail south of the Fishing Area (segment 13). At first glance this plant looks like a runner grass until it begins to bloom in mid June. It will bloom for several months. The blooms vary from 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch in diameter.

A patch of Diodia virginiana.

A closer view.

A close up of the leaves.

A close up of the blooms.

Diodia virginiana (Virginia Buttonweed) is native to the United States. It grows from Connecticut to Kansas and south to Texas and Florida.
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Distribution Map:
- United States Department of Agriculture Plants Database: Diodia virginiana (Virginia Buttonweed)
- University of North Carolina Herbarium: Diodia virginiana

Identification resources:
- Southeastern Flora: Virginia Buttonweed (Diodia virginiana)
- Natural and Naturalized Plants of the Carolinas and Georgia: Diodia virginiana (Virginia Buttonweed)
- Missouri Plants: Diodia virginiana

Related posts:
- 2010: Year Of The Wildflower – Wildflower Index