| Flora of
the Wetlands of Alabama
Because of the ranging conditions
(such as differing pH, water level, and soil types) within these
diverse ecosystems themselves, wetlands allow for a wide range
of species unlike anywhere in the nation. They can be found all
over the state in marshes, swamps, pitcher plant bogs, alongside
rivers, or floating in ponds. While some people may still carry
a negative view of wetlands, the array of wildflowers and other
plant life cannot help but point out the beauty of Alabama's wild
wonders. From early Spring to late Fall, Alabama's wetlands put
on a colorful display as the hundreds of species of wildflowers
bloom along the backdrop of many distinctive trees and ferns that
carpet the landscape. The trees include your common conifers and
hardwoods, but also include the bald cypress and water tupelo
- two wetland species very common to the South. Of interest to
note is that Alabama ranks fourth in the nation in the total number
of plant and animal species on the endangered and threatened species
list. More importantly, many of these species occur within some
type of wetland habitat.
In this section you will find a list
of the various plant species typical to wetlands of the Southeastern
region of the country. Each individual page lists the common and
scientific names, the type of wetland where you would most likely
find the particular species, and links for more information on
that particular plant.
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Fragrant waterlily, Nymphala
odorata |
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