Family Code: PARNAS Genus Code: PARNA Genus CN: grass of Parnassus Genus Authority: L. Genus Summary: A genus of 15-70 species, herbs, primarily of arctic and north temperate areas. Our species (especially P. caroliniana) are among the most southerly of the genus in distribution. Parnassia (all species) are among the most beautiful of our native plants. From a distance the white flowers are attractive but not extraordinary; when observed closely, though, the delicate tracery of the green veins on the waxy white petals is astonishing. Genus Identification: Identification notes: Note that the five staminodia are (in our species) deeply three-lobed to the base, thus appearing as 15. Genus References: Gastony & Soltis (1977); Spongberg (1972); GW; Simmons in Kubitzki (2004). Last Updated: 2019-11-29 Publish: 1