• The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service keeps a list of endangered plants; these species are in danger of becoming extinct as their population dwindles. USFWS keeps a similar list of plant species that are threatened. These plants could become endangered if their populations continue to decrease. Although the agency does not recognize any plants in Wisconsin as being endangered, there are several threatened species in the state.
  
  

False Asphodel

• Tofieldia gulti, better known as (sticky) false asphodel, is a perennial herb in the lily family. It thrives in wetlands such as bogs and marshes in the northern United States and its status as threatened is a result of drainage from the wetlands. In addition to this, flat areas that surround wetlands and frequently flood, contribute to the struggles of the false asphodel. This flowering plant has a white blossom that grows slightly up the stem of the plant in a clump.
  
  

Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid

• The Eastern prairie fringed orchid grows in the Midwest, including Wisconsin. A person is most likely to find this plant in a prairie with soil that is rich, dark and moist with a sandy texture. It also exists on the margins of bogs. Its status is threatened as humans claim the areas in which the plant grows for agricultural uses. The Eastern prairie fringed orchid grows to 8 to 40 inches and boasts an upright stem that holds up to 40 fringe-like white flowers.
  
  

Houghton's Goldenrod

• Solidago houghtonii is the scientific name for a specific type of goldenrod flower that can be found on the shores of Lakes Huron and Michigan in Wisconsin, Michigan and Canada. The specific locations in which this plant grows include limestone crevices, pavements and between dunes. As humans increase foot and vehicle traffic, the shoreline in which this plant thrives becomes less available. Its appearance include clusters of bright, golden yellow flowers and is similar to other goldenrods, including the Ohio goldenrod. Small and narrow leaves grow closely to the stem.
  
  

American Hart's-Tongue Fern

• The Asplenium scolpendrium var. americanum exists in a variety of environments ranging from Canada to Alabama and including Wisconsin. It exists in close proximity to outcrops of dolomitic limestone, limestone sinkholes and mature hardwood forests. These areas provide the high humidity and shade that this fern requires to be healthy. Because of this, populations of American hart's-tongue fern are small and sparse, despite the fact that the plant exists in so many locations. The fern's habitat is shrinking due to logging and quarrying. Recreational activities have also contributed to this plant's status as a threatened species.