Sporophytes arise from the tips of the short upright shoots after fertilization of the eggs, and are elevated on long stalks. |
Funaria flavicans Michx. is easily recognized by its upright growth, broadly ovate leaves with a strong midrib (or costa), and its plump, nodding, slightly asymmetric capsules. It is widespread in eastern North America, and occurs in central Florida on wet sand. Related species in Florida include F. hygrometrica, which has more strongly asymmetric and narrower capsules, and F. serrata, which has toothed leaves and lacks an annulus around the capsule mouth.
The leaf of Funaria is one cell thick, and has a thick central costa. The cells are long-rectangular, with thin walls and many conspicuous chloroplasts. |