Prestonia amazonica

Prestonia amazonica is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is native to the Amazon Rainforest, hence its name, and is known for its medicinal properties.

Description

Prestonia amazonica is a perennial vine that can grow up to 10 meters in length. The leaves are opposite, elliptic to oblong, and 5-10 cm long. The flowers are tubular, white to pink, and about 2 cm long. The fruit is a pair of follicles, each about 10 cm long.

Distribution and habitat

Prestonia amazonica is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly the Amazon Basin. It grows in humid, lowland forests, often along riverbanks and in swampy areas.

Uses

Medicinal

The bark and leaves of Prestonia amazonica have been used in traditional medicine by indigenous peoples of the Amazon. The plant is known to have antimalarial properties and has been used to treat fever and malaria. It is also used for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Conservation

While Prestonia amazonica is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, its habitat is under threat from deforestation and climate change. Conservation efforts are needed to protect this species and its habitat.

See also

• List of plants of Amazon Rainforest vegetation of Brazil
• Medicinal plants

External links

• The Plant List: Prestonia amazonica