Family: Verbenaceae
Author: Juss.
Bibliography: Ann. Mus. Hist. Nat. 7: 73 (1806)
Year: 1806
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Aloysia
Vegetable: False
Observations: Peru to Brazil and N. Argentina
Description
Aloysia virgata, commonly known as Acerillo, is a notable member of the Verbenaceae family, distinguished by its graceful appearance and aromatic properties. First described in 1806 by Jussieu in the Annals of the Museum of Natural History, this plant has garnered attention for its versatile use and widespread geographical distribution.
Native to the regions stretching from Peru to Brazil and Northern Argentina, Acerillo thrives in a variety of environmental conditions, making it a resilient species in its native habitats. The plant typically presents as a shrub or small tree, boasting elongated, slender branches that contribute to its elegant demeanor.
The leaves of Aloysia virgata are lanceolate and arranged oppositely, contributing to a lush, green canopy that can be appreciated in ornamental horticulture. However, what sets Acerillo apart is its floral display. The plant produces small, white to pale lilac flowers, grouped in spike-like inflorescences, which exude a sweet, inviting fragrance. This aromatic quality not only attracts human appreciation but also lures pollinators, making it an essential component of the local ecosystem.
Beyond its visual and olfactory appeal, Acerillo holds cultural and practical significance. Its pleasant scent has seen it utilized in traditional practices, and it is often cultivated in gardens for its ability to add aesthetic and sensory value to landscapes. The adaptability and hardiness of this species also make it a subject of interest for further botanical and ecological studies.
In sum, Aloysia virgata, or Acerillo, stands out as a plant of both beauty and utility, deeply ingrained in the ecological tapestry of South American countries, and celebrated since the early 19th century for its remarkable characteristics.
Common Names
En: Acerillo
Synonyms
- Priva virgata ((Ruiz & Pav.) Spreng.)
- Zappania virgata ((Ruiz & Pav.) Poir.)
- Verbena virgata (Ruiz & Pav.)
- Lippia virgata ((Ruiz & Pav.) Kuntze)
Distribution
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Jan 13, 2022 by Muzzachiodi Norberto (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 25, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 22, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Apr 21, 2022 by Amanda A (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 13, 2021 by Schofield Leo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 22, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 22, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 25, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Nov 5, 2022 by Matheus Platner (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 4, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 25, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 9, 2022 by Kerstin Nirschl (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jan 13, 2022 by Muzzachiodi Norberto (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jan 13, 2022 by Muzzachiodi Norberto (cc-by-sa)
© 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/7297208)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:861090-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Aloysia virgata (Ruiz & Pav.) Juss.)
