Grass-of-Parnassus
Grass-of-Parnassus, Malham Tarn
Stamens, nectar guides and nectaries
Capsule, stigmas and staminodes
Stem leaves
Stalked leaves
Parnassia palustris
Celastaceae
July to September
It is found mainly in the North and is scattered in the
Midlands and East Anglia.
See the BSBI distribution map for Grass-of-Parnassus
It grows in marshes, fens and dune slacks and where
lime-rich water comes to the surface in acid grassland
(flushes).
Grass-of-Parnassus is a native, perennial, rhizomatous
herb growing up to 30cm.
Flowers (up to 3cm) have 5 white petals with
conspicuous nectar guides and yellow-green nectaries
at the base.
The 5 white stamens alternate with shorter
staminodes, which have terminal glands.
The ovary develops into a pink capsule with purple
stigmas on top.
Normal leaves are stalked and heart-shaped.
Stem leaves are sessile (unstalked) and clasp the
stem.
Previous page: Grass-leaved Orache
Next page: Greater Burdock
Grass-of-Parnassus, Malham Tarn
Stamens, nectar guides and nectaries
Capsule, stigmas and staminodes
Stem leaves
Stalked leaves
© Copyright 2004-2025 - CMS Made Simple
This site is powered by CMS Made Simple version 1.11.9