Alibertia patinoi

Alibertia patinoi

Alibertia patinoi
familia	Rubiaceae
genus	Alibertia
subfamilia	{{{subfamilia}}}
species	A. patinoi
binomial	Alibertia patinoi
binomial_authority	Standl.
unranked_ordo	Rosids
unranked_classis	Eudicots
ordo	Malpighiales
regnum	Plantae

Alibertia patinoi is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. This plant is commonly known as Alibertia patinoi or by its common name, Patino's alibertia.

Description

Alibertia patinoi is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub that can reach a height of up to 3 meters. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape and arranged in opposite pairs along the stems. The plant produces small, white flowers with five petals that are arranged in clusters. The flowers are followed by round, orange fruits that contain numerous seeds.

Distribution and Habitat

This species is found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, including countries such as Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador. It typically grows in the understory of the forest, preferring shaded and moist environments.

Uses

The fruits of Alibertia patinoi are edible and have a sweet and tangy flavor. They are often consumed fresh or used in the preparation of jams and jellies. The plant is also used in traditional medicine for its various medicinal properties. The bark and leaves are believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Conservation

Due to habitat loss and deforestation, the population of Alibertia patinoi is declining in its natural habitat. It is listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Efforts are being made to protect and conserve this species through the establishment of protected areas and conservation programs.