Lithospermum parviflorum, commonly called Eastern Prairie Marbleseed,[1] is a species of flowering plant in the forget-me-not family. It is native to the eastern North America.
This species is a robust perennial. It produces a cyme of cream colored flowers in late spring and early summer.[2]
Although widespread, this species is spotty and uncommon throughout much of its range. Its preferred habitat, somewhat dry calcareous woodlands, barrens, and glades,[1] has been heavily impacted by agriculture and other land-use changes. The only area this species is considered secure in is the Ridge and Valley region of Virginia and West Virginia.[3] [4] In Kentucky, this species has disappeared from many previously known localities since the 1980s.[4] In Missouri, it has been known to be in decline since the 1950s.[5]
It can be distinguished from the similar looking Lithospermum bejariense by having shorter corollas (6-10mm) and nutlets that form a collar around the base. It can be distinguished from the cedar glade endemic Lithospermum molle by having leaves with erect pustular-based hairs.[2] Some rare collections from southern Kentucky appear to be intermediate with Lithospermum molle.[4]