Family: Krameriaceae
Author: Torr.
Bibliography: Ann. Lyceum Nat. Hist. New York 2: 168 (1827)
Year: 1827
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Krameria
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & S. U.S.A. to NE. Mexico
Description
Ratany (Krameria lanceolata) is a fascinating plant species belonging to the family Krameriaceae. This resilient and distinctive plant is primarily observed in the central and southern regions of the United States, extending its reach into northeastern Mexico. Its botanical relevance was first documented in the “Annals of the Lyceum of Natural History of New York” in the year 1827 by the esteemed American botanist, John Torrey.
The plant is notable for its unusual morphology and ecological adaptations. Ratany typically thrives in arid and semi-arid environments, where it has evolved to endure challenging climatic conditions. Its roots often form symbiotic relationships with other plants, enhancing its ability to extract scarce water and nutrients from the soil.
Krameria lanceolata is characterized by its small but striking flowers, which are often a vivid red or purple, making them easily distinguishable against the backdrop of their typically sparse surroundings. The flowers are uniquely adapted to facilitate pollination by specialized insects, which are attracted by both the visual appeal and the nectar rewards.
In addition to its ecological role, Ratany has garnered interest for its potential medicinal properties. Traditionally, various cultures have utilized parts of the plant for their purported therapeutic benefits, which include antimicrobial and astringent effects. These uses underscore the plant’s significance beyond its ecological functions, highlighting its value in traditional medicine systems in conjunction with ongoing scientific exploration.
The unique attributes of Ratany, or Krameria lanceolata, underscore its adaptability and significance in both natural and human contexts. As researchers continue to explore its properties and potential applications, this intriguing species remains a testament to the diversity and resilience of flora in some of the more demanding environments of North America.
Common Names
Eng: crameria, ratany, sandspur, spreading ratany, trailing krameria, trailing ratany, trailing rhatany
En: Ratany, Trailing krameria, Trailing rhatany, Crameria, Sandspur, Prairie sandbur, Trailing ratany, Spreading ratany
Ar: رطن سناني
Synonyms
- Dimenops lanceolata (Raf.)
- Krameria beyrichii (Sporl. ex O.Berg)
- Krameria secundiflora var. lanceolata ((Torr.) Chodat)
- Krameria secundiflora var. angustifolia (Chodat)
- Krameria secundiflora var. intermedia (Chodat)
- Krameria spathulata (Small)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken May 12, 2011 by EOL − Sharpj99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2015 by EOL − Christine (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 8, 2015 by EOL − Christine (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 23, 2015 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 20, 2006 by EOL − J.R.M. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Dec 2, 2015 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 2, 2015 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 2, 2015 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 7, 2015 by EOL − Bob O’Kennon (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 7, 2015 by EOL − Bob O’Kennon (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5421454)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:279251-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Krameria lanceolata Torr.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb