Lyonia mariana
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Asterids
Order:	Ericales
Family:	Ericaceae
Genus:	Lyonia
Species:	L. mariana
Binomial name
Lyonia mariana (L.) D. Don

Lyonia mariana, the Piedmont staggerbush and staggerbush, is a perennial shrub that is native to the United States. Lyonia mariana, also known as the Piedmont staggerbush, is a shrub native to the southeastern United States, from Virginia to Florida. The shrub grows in habitats including pine flatwoods and sandhills, it displays adaptability to acidic soils. Recognized by its lance-shaped, glossy green leaves and clusters of white and pink tubular flowers, the Piedmont staggerbush contributes to the biodiversity of its ecosystem by providing shelter for wildlife and supporting pollinators. The plant contains grayanotoxins, making it potentially toxic if ingested.

Description

Lyonia mariana, commonly referred to as the Piedmont Staggerbush, is an evergreen shrub indigenous to the southeastern United States. Typically attaining a height ranging from 2 to 6 feet,^[1] this medium-sized shrub displays lance-shaped leaves that are leathery, glossy, and arranged alternately along its branches.^[2] The green foliage remains consistently vibrant throughout the year, forming a dense and bushy growth pattern. In the late spring to early summer, the Piedmont staggerbush produces clusters of tubular, urn-shaped flowers with varying shades of white and pink,^[2] a characteristic that contributes to its botanical and ecological significance. Following the flowering period, small, dry capsules containing seeds become apparent, representing a notable aspect of the plant's reproductive cycle.^[3] The shrub's foliage and dense growth contribute to its ecological role by providing cover and nesting sites for wildlife. Lyonia mariana is recognized for its adaptability and resilience in its natural habitat and is valued for both its aesthetic and ecological attributes in ornamental landscaping.^[3]

Distribution and Habitat

The Piedmont staggerbush (Lyonia mariana) is native to the southeastern United States. It is commonly found in acidic soils of pine flatwoods, sandhills, and mixed pine-hardwood forests.^[4] This shrub prefers areas with full to partial sunlight and moderate water availability. Lyonia mariana attracts a diverse range of wildlife within its native habitat. It has simple, alternate leaves^[5] and the shrub's flowers draw the attention of butterflies, serving as a nectar source.^[4] Additionally, various pollinators, including specialized bees, are attracted to the nectar, contributing to the plant's ecological interactions.^[4] The dense and bushy growth form of Lyonia mariana provides suitable cover and nesting sites, making it appealing to songbirds. This ecological dynamic emphasizes the plant's importance as a hub for biodiversity, fostering interactions with different species in its environment.^[4] This shrub prefers areas with full to partial sunlight and moderate water availability.

Ecology

Various pollinators, including specialized bees, are attracted to the nectar and pollen of Lyonia mariana. The dense and bushy growth form of Lyonia mariana provides suitable cover and nesting sites, making it appealing to songbirds. Adapted to fire-prone environments, L. marina plays persists in communities where periodic fires occur.^[6] The Piedmont Staggerbush can resprout from its rhizome after a fire event.^[7]

Uses

In landscaping, the bushy growth form of L. mariana and its evergreen leaves can be attractive, and it is recognized as a good plant for attracting butterflies and pollinators in native plant gardens. Adaptability to acidic soils makes it suitable for various garden settings. Historically, the Cherokee utilized an infusion derived from Lyonia mariana to address toe itch, ground-itch, and ulcers.

Toxicity

Lyonia mariana contains grayanotoxins,^[8] which are toxic compounds found in various plants of the Ericaceae family, including rhododendrons and azaleas. Grayanotoxins can cause a condition known as "grayanotoxin poisoning" or "mad honey disease" if ingested in sufficient quantities. Symptoms of grayanotoxin poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and weakness.^[9] It's important to note that cases of toxicity from Piedmont Staggerbush are relatively rare, as the plant is not typically consumed by humans. The toxic effects are more commonly associated with the ingestion of honey produced by bees that have fed on the nectar of grayanotoxin-containing plants. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the amount of honey ingested and the concentration of grayanotoxins present.^[9]

Conservation status

Lyonia mariana is listed as endangered in Pennsylvania, historical in Rhode Island,^[10] and as a species of special concern and believed extirpated in Connecticut.^[11]

References