Charming centaury (Zeltnera venusta, Taxon 53: 733 (2004))

Family: Gentianaceae

Author: (A.Gray) G.Mans.

Bibliography: Taxon 53: 733 (2004)

Year: 2004

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Zeltnera

Vegetable: False

Observations: California to Mexico (NW. Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua)

Description

Charming centaury, scientifically known as Zeltnera venusta, is a noteworthy and captivating plant belonging to the family Gentianaceae. Authored by (A.Gray) G.Mans., this botanical gem was discussed comprehensively in the literature, particularly noted in Taxon 53: 733 (2004). Native to North America, charming centaury thrives in regions ranging from California down to the northern parts of Mexico, including the northwest of Baja California, Sonora, and Chihuahua.

This delicate and beautiful plant often garners attention for its petite, yet strikingly elegant flowers. These blossoms typically feature shades of pink or purple, which contribute to its endearing common name, “charming centaury.” The plant’s aesthetic appeal is complemented by its ecological role within its native habitats, where it is an integral part of local biodiversity.

Zeltnera venusta is adapted to a variety of environments within its range, showcasing its resilience and adaptability. It is commonly found in grasslands, open woodlands, and other relatively undisturbed areas. This plant’s preference for such habitats highlights the importance of conservation efforts to maintain these ecosystems, ensuring that species like the charming centaury continue to flourish.

Overall, Zeltnera venusta stands as a significant species within the Gentianaceae family, valued for both its botanical charm and its ecological significance. Efforts to study and preserve this beautiful plant will contribute to the understanding and appreciation of the biodiversity present in the regions it calls home.

Common Names

Spa: canchalagua
Eng: charming centaury
En: Charming centaury
Es: Canchalagua

Synonyms

• Centaurium venustum f. tupae (Creutz)
• Erythraea chironioides (Torr.)
• Centaurium venustum ((A.Gray) B.L.Rob.)
• Erythraea venusta var. genuina (Wittr.)
• Erythraea venusta (A.Gray)
• Erythraea venusta var. micrantha (Wittr.)

Distribution

• California (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Mar 12, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 12, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 12, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 12, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 12, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-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/3842736)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77061745-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Zeltnera venusta (A. Gray) G. Mans.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth