Palicourea tomentosa

Psychotria poeppigiana

Palicourea tomentosa is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Central America and South America. This plant is known for its distinctive hairy leaves and vibrant flowers.

Description

Palicourea tomentosa is a shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. The leaves are opposite, simple, and have a tomentose (hairy) texture, which is a characteristic feature of this species. The flowers are typically bright yellow or orange and are arranged in terminal clusters. The fruit is a small, fleshy drupe that turns black when ripe.

Habitat

This species thrives in tropical rainforests and is commonly found in the understory layer. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can often be found along riverbanks and in areas with high humidity.

Ecology

Palicourea tomentosa plays a role in the ecosystem as a source of nectar for various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The fruits are also consumed by birds, which help in seed dispersal.

Uses

While there are no widely known uses of Palicourea tomentosa in traditional medicine or agriculture, it is of interest to botanists and ecologists studying tropical plant species and their interactions within their habitats.

Related Species

Palicourea tomentosa is part of the genus Palicourea, which includes several other species such as:

• Palicourea guianensis
• Palicourea crocea
• Palicourea rigida

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Palicourea tomentosa has not been extensively studied, but like many tropical plants, it could be susceptible to habitat loss due to deforestation and other environmental pressures.

See Also

• Rubiaceae
• Tropical rainforest
• Pollination
• Seed dispersal