Family: Koeberliniaceae
Author: Zucc.
Bibliography: Flora 15(2 Beibl.): 74 (1832)
Year: 1832
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Koeberlinia
Vegetable: False
Observations: Texas to E. & C. Mexico
Description
Crown of thorns, scientifically known as Koeberlinia spinosa, is an intriguing shrub native to the regions stretching from Texas to Eastern and Central Mexico. First described in the early 19th century, this resilient plant has garnered attention for both its distinctive appearance and adaptability.
Koeberlinia spinosa belongs to the family Koeberliniaceae, a small family of plants with unique botanical characteristics. The shrub typically thrives in arid and semi-arid environments, where its hardy nature allows it to withstand harsh conditions. The plant’s common name, Crown of thorns, is derived from its formidable thorns that line the intricately branched stems, creating a crown-like appearance.
The stems of Crown of thorns are green and photosynthetic, often giving the shrub a somewhat eerie, yet fascinating appearance. Unlike many plants that rely primarily on leaves for photosynthesis, Koeberlinia spinosa uses its stems to perform this crucial function. The leaves of this shrub are small and ephemeral, which helps reduce water loss — an essential adaptation for survival in drought-prone areas.
During its blooming period, Crown of thorns produces small, white flowers that add a delicate contrast to its otherwise rugged form. These flowers are typically followed by small, fleshy fruits that provide sustenance for various wildlife, contributing to the shrub’s role in its native ecosystem.
The shrub is not just a botanical curiosity; it has been a part of the local flora for centuries, adapting to the challenging climates of its native range. Its presence from Texas to Eastern and Central Mexico underscores its wide ecological tolerance and versatility.
In summary, Crown of thorns (Koeberlinia spinosa) is a formidable and fascinating shrub, notable for its distinctive thorny appearance and remarkable adaptations to arid environments. Its unique characteristics make it a subject of interest for both botanists and plant enthusiasts alike, reflecting nature’s ingenuity in plant evolution and survival strategies.
Common Names
Eng: allthorn, crown of thorns
Spa: junco
En: Crown of thorns, SPINY ALLTHORN, Allthorn
Es: Junco
Synonyms
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Oct 11, 2020 by Monclus Santi Monclus (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 4, 2022 by Sergey (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 9, 2022 by Dylan Gunning (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2022 by Matthew DreamsOfBunnies (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Jossanne Neil (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Apr 8, 2015 by EOL − Opuntia Cadereytensis (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 10, 2013 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Flower
Taken Oct 14, 2022 by paul jallon (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Howard, R.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Mar 2, 2015 by EOL − Julie M. Schlichte (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 2, 2015 by EOL − Julie M. Schlichte (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 2, 2015 by EOL − Julie M. Schlichte (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 22, 2015 by EOL − Bill Lupardus (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 8, 2014 by EOL − Alex Hall (cc-by-nc)
© 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/3054188)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30070320-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Koeberlinia spinosa Zucc.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Tree, Shrub
