Family: Phyllanthaceae
Author: Walter
Bibliography: Fl. Carol.: 228 (1788)
Year: 1788
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Phyllanthus
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: C. & E. U.S.A. to NE. Argentina
Description
The Carolina leaf-flower, scientifically known as Phyllanthus caroliniensis, is a fascinating plant species belonging to the Phyllanthaceae family. First described by Walter in 1788 in “Flora Caroliniana,” this plant has garnered attention for its widespread distribution and unique characteristics.
Phyllanthus caroliniensis thrives across a broad geographical range, extending from the central and eastern regions of the United States all the way to northeastern Argentina. This extensive habitat indicates the plant’s adaptability to various environments and climatic conditions.
The Carolina leaf-flower exhibits a distinctive appearance with its delicate, small leaves and subtle flowers. The plant’s intricate foliage and compact growth make it a noteworthy addition to both natural and cultivated landscapes. It is often found in diverse settings, from open fields and meadows to the understory of forests, showcasing its versatility and resilience.
Botanists and plant enthusiasts alike appreciate the Carolina leaf-flower not only for its beauty but also for its ecological significance. As a member of the diverse Phyllanthaceae family, it plays a role in supporting local ecosystems, contributing to the habitat’s biological diversity and providing resources for various pollinators and other wildlife.
In summary, the Carolina leaf-flower, or Phyllanthus caroliniensis, is a remarkable plant recognized for its extensive distribution across the Americas and its unique botanical features. Whether observed in its natural habitat or included in botanical gardens, this plant continues to captivate those who study and appreciate the intricacies of plant life.
Common Names
Eng: carolina leaf-flower
En: Carolina leaf-flower, CAROLINA LEAFLOWER
Fr: Graine en bas feuille
Synonyms
- Diasperus caroliniensis ((Walter) Kuntze)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Bahamas (native)
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- Florida (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Galápagos (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Leeward Is. (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Peru (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Southwest Caribbean (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Trinidad-Tobago (native)
- Turks-Caicos Is. (native)
- Uruguay (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
- Windward Is. (native)
- Thailand (introduced)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Oliveira Vander (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Oliveira Vander (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Oliveira Vander (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 7, 2020 by fourgoldfinches (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5381549)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:353652-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Phyllanthus caroliniensis Walter)