Family: Caprifoliaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl. ed. 2: 47 (1762)
Year: 1762
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Valeriana
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico to Trop. America
Description
Florida valerian, scientifically known as Valeriana scandens, is a fascinating plant species that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. Initially described in the second edition of “Species Plantarum” in 1762 by the esteemed botanist Carl Linnaeus, this plant has captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts for centuries.
Native to regions extending from Mexico to tropical areas of the Americas, Florida valerian thrives in a variety of environmental conditions across its wide range. The plant typically flourishes in tropical climates, where it contributes to the local biodiversity and plays a role in the complex ecosystems of its habitat.
Valeriana scandens is notable for its medicinal properties, similar to other members of the Valerianaceae family. Historically, various cultures have utilized parts of the plant for their purported calming and sedative effects. Although primarily studied and used in other regions of the world, its presence from Mexico to tropical America underscores its adaptability and significance in both traditional and modern botanical studies.
This versatile plant exemplifies the rich botanical diversity of tropical America and continues to be an object of study for its ecological roles and potential benefits. As research progresses, the importance of preserving such species and their habitats becomes increasingly apparent, highlighting the intricate balance of our natural world.
In summary, Florida valerian is more than just a tropical plant; it is a symbol of the ecological wealth of the Americas and a testament to the enduring relevance of classical botanical literature in contemporary scientific exploration.
Common Names
En: Florida valerian
Synonyms
- Valeriana phaseoli (A.Braun)
- Valeriana scandens var. angustiloba (C.A.Müll.)
- Valeriana volubilis (DC.)
- Valeriana scandens var. genuina (C.A.Müll.)
- Valeriana regnellii (Sond.)
Distribution
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Florida (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Uruguay (native)
- Venezuela (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Acevedo, P. (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.
© 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/8019756)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30039915-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Valeriana scandens L.)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2888764)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Vine, Forb/herb