Goldthread

This little wildflower has probably been growing on my farm since the dawn of time, but my D70 helped me notice it for the first time this year. I took several shots for identification purposes, and then decided I liked this one, even if it is over processed. A friend identified the plant as goldthread.

“From amidst shiny deckle-edged leaves emerge diminutive flowers with white, pointed sepals that most people think are petals. In the center of these are found obscure club-shaped petals and numerous white stamens with gold anthers. The strange petals are actually nectaries to feed thirsty insects. The blossom is a subject for a close look with a magnifier because of its exquisite structure. The plant derives its name from the roots' resemblance to yellow threads. These are bitter but beneficial medicinally-according to the old-time country housewife.”

NIKON D70    ---    300mm    f/5.6    1/1600s   

 

Star of Bethlehem

Jerry:

You are absolutely right! The reference you supplied showed me clearly that it is not goldthread. I found a couple more references that clearly show it to be star of bethlehem. The first has a nice photo and the second gives a clear description:

http://www.plantphotography.com/StarofBethlehem1716.htm
http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/s/starbe89.html

Thankyou!
(Now I'll have to change my image title and write to the person who made the initial identification.)