Family: Phytolaccaceae
Author: Kunth & C.D.Bouché
Bibliography: Index Seminum (B, Berolinensis) 1848: 15 (1848)
Year: 1848
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Phytolacca
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico to Trop. America
Description
The Venezuelan pokeweed, scientifically known as Phytolacca rivinoides, is a striking and resilient plant belonging to the Phytolaccaceae family. The species was first classified by the notable botanists Kunth and C.D. Bouché, with its first recorded mention found in the Index Seminum (B, Berolinensis) in 1848, where it was meticulously described.
This intriguing plant is native to a wide range, stretching from Mexico through Tropical America, indicating its adaptability to various climates and environments. The Venezuelan pokeweed thrives in these regions, typically found in tropical and subtropical forested areas where it can benefit from the rich, moist soil conditions and the warm climate.
Phytolacca rivinoides features a robust, sometimes shrubby form, adorned with vibrant, broad leaves that capture the essence of the lush environments it inhabits. The leaves are typically large, providing a significant surface area for photosynthesis, which supports its vigorous growth.
The plant is also known for its clusters of small, conspicuous flowers, which bloom in dense racemes. These flowers eventually give way to equally notable fruit, often dark purple or black berries that add to the plant’s visual appeal. These fruits not only contribute to the plant’s reproductive cycle but also play a role in the local ecosystem, providing a food source for various birds and animals.
Despite its attractiveness, it’s important to be cautious with Phytolacca rivinoides, as it can be toxic if ingested improperly. This characteristic is common among members of the Phytolaccaceae family, necessitating careful handling and consideration, particularly in settings where children and pets are present.
Overall, the Venezuelan pokeweed is an impressive example of botanical adaptability and beauty. Its presence from Mexico to Tropical America highlights its ecological significance and the diverse habitats it enriches.
Common Names
Eng: venezuelan pokeweed, purple heart
Por: carurur-de-soldado, mucurá-caracá
En: Venezuelan pokeweed, Purple Heart
Pt: Carurur-de-soldado, Mucurá-caracá
Synonyms
- Phytolacca polystyla (R.H.Schomb. ex Moq.)
- Phytolacca icosandra var. fraseri (Moq.)
Distribution
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Central American Pac (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Leeward Is. (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Trinidad-Tobago (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Windward Is. (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Jul 4, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jul 4, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jul 4, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jul 4, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3084014)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:676397-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Phytolacca rivinoides Kunth & C.D.Bouché)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb