Browse Vascular Plants by State Status

Endangered

Any species or subspecies of plant whose continued existence as a viable component of the state’s flora is determined by the Commissioner ( of the Department of Environment and Conservation) to be in jeopardy, including but not limited to all species of plants determined to be “endangered species” pursuant to the Endangered Species Act.

Endangered – Possibly Extirpated

Any species or subspecies of plant whose continued existence as a viable component of the state’s flora is determined by the Commissioner ( of the Department of Environment and Conservation) to be in jeopardy, including but not limited to all species of plants determined to be “endangered species” pursuant to the Endangered Species Act. This species or subspecies has not been seen in Tennessee for the past 20 years. It is possible that it may no longer occur in Tennessee.

Possibly Extirpated

A species or subspecies that has not been seen in Tennessee for the past 20 years and may no longer occur in Tennessee.

Special Concern

Any species or subspecies of a plant that is uncommon in Tennessee or has scientific value. This species or subspecies may have unique or highly specific habitat requirements and, therefore, requires careful monitoring of its status.

Special Concern – Commercially Exploited

Any species or subspecies of a plant that is uncommon in Tennessee, has unique or highly specific habitat requirements or scientific value and requires careful monitoring of its status. Since large numbers are being taken from the wild and propagation or cultivation is insufficient to meet market demand, these plants are of long-term conservation concern. However, the Division of Natural Heritage does not recommend they be included in the normal environmental review process.

Threatened

Any species or subspecies of a plant which appears likely, within the foreseeable future, to become endangered throughout all or a significant portion of its range in Tennessee, including but not limited to all species of plants determined to be a “threatened species” pursuant to the Endangered Species Act.

Threatened – Commercially Exploited

Any species or subspecies of a plant which appears likely, within the foreseeable future, to become endangered throughout all or a significant portion of its range in Tennessee, including but not limited to all species of plants determined to be a “threatened species” pursuant to the Endangered Species Act. Since large numbers are being taken from the wild and propagation or cultivation is insufficient to meet market demand, these plants are of long-term conservation concern. However, the Division of Natural Heritage does not recommend they be included in the normal environmental review process.

The State and Federal Status are based on Tennessee Natural Heritage Program Rare Plant List 2008, and updated on-line by Pat Barnwell. Search result contains only those taxa that have been entered into the TENN flora database.  If you have knowledge of a plant not listed, please contact B. E. Wofford at bewofford@utk.edu.

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