GENTRY -- Miami mist (Phacelia purshii), a rare plant in Arkansas, was found blooming and photographed at the new Gentry Flint Creek Nature Area by Terry Stanfill, a local naturalist and photographer.
According to the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, it is only found in Benton County in Arkansas. It is an inventoried species in Arkansas, being ranked S1, which is one step below "threatened" status, Stanfill said. It is common in its normal range of the eastern and southeastern United States.
"The ANHC chief botanist, Theo Witsell, tells me he has seen it at Sulphur Springs and close to Decatur. The Gentry site is new and is now in the ANHC database," Stanfill said. "It is scattered throughout the eastern side of the nature area."
According to Stanfill, Witsell said it is an annual, so it will have to bloom and go to seed to appear new each year.
Kevin Johnston, Gentry mayor, said the plant's discovery should not have any impact on the city's plans for trails and features in the park.
"It actually is a perfect example of what we hope people can recognize and enjoy while at the FCNA," Johnston said in an email to the Eagle Observer on Monday. "I am not aware of any of the (Miami mist) plants to be threatened by any future plans. It is my understanding that they can be relocated if necessary," Johnston added.
General News on 04/13/2016