Family: Solanaceae
Author: (Cav.) J.L.Gentry
Bibliography: Phytologia 27: 287 (1973)
Year: 1973
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Jaltomata
Vegetable: False
Observations: Arizona to Venezuela and W. Bolivia
Description
Creeping false holly, scientifically known as Jaltomata procumbens, is a remarkable member of the Solanaceae family. This plant can be found extensively from Arizona to Venezuela and Western Bolivia, showcasing its adaptability to diverse environmental conditions across a wide geographic range.
First formally described in detail in Phytologia in 1973, the classification was authored by the botanist J.L. Gentry, building upon initial descriptions by Cav. The denomination “procumbens” refers to its creeping habit, as the plant characteristically spreads close to the ground – an adaptive feature that might contribute to its broad distribution.
The Solanaceae family, to which Jaltomata procumbens belongs, is notable for its wide variety of species, many of which are economically and ecologically significant. This family includes some of the world’s most important crops and medicinal plants, and creeping false holly adds to this rich botanical tapestry with its unique characteristics.
Creeping false holly is notable for its ability to thrive in various climates and altitudes, reflecting its versatility and resilience. This broad adaptability is an asset for horticulturists and botanists interested in plants that can establish in a range of environments.
Understanding the wide geographical range and adaptive characteristics of Jaltomata procumbens can provide valuable insights for conservation efforts, especially in regions where habitat loss and climate change pose significant threats to biodiversity. The study and appreciation of such versatile plants are essential for preserving the intricate balance within ecosystems across the Americas.
In summary, the creeping false holly (Jaltomata procumbens) stands out not only for its botanical interests but also for its significant range and adaptability. It continues to capture the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike, contributing to the rich diversity within the Solanaceae family.
Common Names
Eng: creeping false holly
Swe: jaltomata
Spa: jaltomate
En: Creeping false holly
Es: Jaltomate
Sv: Jaltomata
Synonyms
- Saracha miersii (Dunal & A.DC.)
- Jaltomata edulis (Schltdl.)
- Atropa plicata (Roth)
- Witheringia alata ((Dunal) Miers)
- Solanum procumbens (DC.)
- Witheringia allogona ((Schltdl.) Miers)
- Saracha microsperma (Bitter)
- Bellinia biflora (Roem. & Schult.)
- Witheringia conspersa ((Miers) Miers)
- Witheringia glabrata ((Miers) Miers)
- Bellinia procumbens ((Cav.) Roem. & Schult.)
- Saracha conspersa (Miers)
- Saracha laxa (Miers)
- Witheringia procumbens ((Cav.) Miers)
- Saracha jaltomata (Schltdl.)
- Saracha procumbens var. pilosula (C.V.Morton)
- Saracha diffusa (Miers)
- Atropa procumbens (Cav.)
- Saracha caracasana (Bitter)
- Physalis solanacea (Mert. ex Roth)
- Saracha sessilis (Greene)
- Saracha edulis ((Schltdl.) Thell.)
- Witheringia diffusa (Miers)
- Physalis allogona (Dunal)
- Physalis jaltomata (Schltdl.)
- Witheringia candollei (Miers)
- Saracha glabrata (Miers)
- Solanum allogonum (Bernh.)
- Saracha allogona (Schltdl.)
- Witheringia jaltomata (Miers)
- Saracha procumbens ((Cav.) Ruiz & Pav.)
- Witheringia laxa ((Miers) Miers)
- Saracha alata (Dunal)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Peru (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Jawa (introduced)
- Maryland (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Aug 6, 2022 by Yeshua Jiménez Ortega (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 6, 2022 by Yeshua Jiménez Ortega (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Aug 6, 2022 by Yeshua Jiménez Ortega (cc-by-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/2928805)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:131311-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Jaltomata procumbens (Cav.) J.L.Gentry)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb