Categories: Fabaceae

Cresta de gallo blanco (Teramnus uncinatus, Prodr. Veg. Ind. Occ.: 105 (1788))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: (L.) Sw.

Bibliography: Prodr. Veg. Ind. Occ.: 105 (1788)

Year: 1788

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Teramnus

Vegetable: False

Observations: Mexico to Trop. America, Trop. Africa, Comoros, Madagascar

Description

Cresta de Gallo Blanco (Teramnus uncinatus)

Cresta de gallo blanco, scientifically known as Teramnus uncinatus, is a fascinating plant species belonging to the Fabaceae family. This perennial herb is notable not only for its botanical interest but also for its widespread presence across various tropical regions. Described authoritatively in 1788 in “Prodromus Vegetationis Indicae Occidentalis” by (L.) Sw., Teramnus uncinatus has garnered attention for its distinctive characteristics and geographical versatility.

Botanical Characteristics

Teramnus uncinatus is distinguished by its herbaceous growth habit. The plant typically forms sprawling or climbing vegetation, utilizing tendrils or hooks for support on nearby structures or other plants. Its foliage is composed of trifoliate leaves, each leaflet often presenting a vibrant green hue. The plant blooms with small, delicate flowers that can range in color from white to pale shades, contributing to its common name, Cresta de gallo blanco.

Geographical Distribution

A testament to its adaptability, Teramnus uncinatus is found in a wide range of tropical environments. Its native range spans from Mexico down through Tropical America, showcasing its resilience in varying climates and terrains. Beyond the Americas, the plant has also established itself in Tropical Africa, the Comoros archipelago, and the biologically rich island of Madagascar. Such diverse habitats reflect the plant’s versatility and ecological plasticity.

Ecological and Cultural Importance

In many of the regions it inhabits, Teramnus uncinatus plays a vital ecological role. As a member of the Fabaceae family, it is likely involved in nitrogen-fixing, which is crucial for soil health and fertility. This process helps in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting agricultural practices in tropical regions.

Culturally, Cresta de gallo blanco may hold significance in local herbal medicine or as part of traditional agricultural systems, although specific uses can vary widely based on regional practices and knowledge.

Conclusion

Teramnus uncinatus, or Cresta de gallo blanco, is a remarkable plant that exemplifies the biodiversity of tropical flora. Its wide distribution from Mexico to Madagascar highlights not only its adaptability but also its importance in various ecological and potentially cultural contexts. The historical botanical description by (L.) Sw. laid the foundation for understanding this versatile species, which continues to intrigue botanists and ecologists alike.

Common Names

Por: amendoim-de-veado, favinha-de-capoeira, jequirana
Eng: cresta de gallo blanco
En: Cresta de gallo blanco
Pt: Amendoim-de-veado, Favinha-de-capoeira, Jequirana

Synonyms

Dolichos uncinatus (L.)
Glycine uncinata ((L.) J.F.Macbr.)

Distribution

Angola (native)
Bahamas (native)
Benin (native)
Bolivia (native)
Brazil North (native)
Brazil Northeast (native)
Brazil South (native)
Brazil Southeast (native)
Brazil West-Central (native)
Burundi (native)
Cameroon (native)
Cayman Is. (native)
Central African Repu (native)
Chad (native)
Colombia (native)
Comoros (native)
Congo (native)
Costa Rica (native)
Cuba (native)
Dominican Republic (native)
Ecuador (native)
El Salvador (native)
Ethiopia (native)
Ghana (native)
Guatemala (native)
Guinea (native)
Guinea-Bissau (native)
Haiti (native)
Honduras (native)
Ivory Coast (native)
Jamaica (native)
Kenya (native)
Madagascar (native)
Malawi (native)
Mexico Central (native)
Mexico Gulf (native)
Mexico Northwest (native)
Mexico Southeast (native)
Mexico Southwest (native)
Mozambique (native)
Nicaragua (native)
Nigeria (native)
Panamá (native)
Peru (native)
Puerto Rico (native)
Rwanda (native)
Senegal (native)
Sierra Leone (native)
Sudan (native)
Tanzania (native)
Uganda (native)
Venezuela (native)
Venezuelan Antilles (native)
Zambia (native)
Zaïre (native)
Zimbabwe (native)