Gregg’s tube tongue (Justicia pilosella, Pl. Syst. Evol. 169: 225 (1990))

Family: Acanthaceae

Author: (Nees) Hilsenb.

Bibliography: Pl. Syst. Evol. 169: 225 (1990)

Year: 1990

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Justicia

Vegetable: False

Observations: SC. U.S.A. to C. Mexico

Description

Gregg’s tube tongue, known scientifically as Justicia pilosella, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Acanthaceae family. This intriguing species was documented in the publication “Plant Systematics and Evolution” in 1990, under the nomenclature established by the botanist Hilsenb., following the original classification by Nees.

Native to the regions extending from the southern United States down to central Mexico, Gregg’s tube tongue thrives in these diverse climates, demonstrating a remarkable adaptability. The plant is characterized by its distinctive tubular flowers, which are not only visually appealing but also serve an important role in attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Gregg’s tube tongue holds significant ecological value within its native habitats. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the plant contributes to the biodiversity and stability of the ecosystems where it is found. Its presence supports various pollinator species, thereby facilitating the reproductive cycles of numerous native plants.

This species, like many in the Acanthaceae family, has adapted well to its environment. Its robust nature allows it to withstand various climatic conditions, making it a resilient component of the flora in the regions it inhabits. As urbanization and climate change continue to modify natural habitats, plants like Gregg’s tube tongue serve as indicators of environmental health and highlight the importance of preserving native species.

The study and documentation of plantas such as Gregg’s tube tongue are crucial for botanists and ecologists alike. By understanding the characteristics and requirements of Justicia pilosella, conservation efforts can be better directed to ensure that this species, along with the myriad of organisms it supports, continues to thrive in its native regions for generations to come.

Common Names

Eng: gregg’s tube tongue
En: Gregg’s tube tongue, Gregg’s tubetongue, Hairy tubetongue

Synonyms

• Dipteracanthus procumbens (Nees)
• Siphonoglossa dipteracantha ((Nees) A.Heller)
• Adhatoda dipteracantha (Nees)
• Monechma pilosella (Nees)
• Siphonoglossa pilosella ((Nees) Torr.)
• Justicia turneri (Hilsenb.)
• Siphonoglossa greggii (Greenm. & C.H.Thomps.)

Distribution

• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Texas (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Habit

Taken Jul 9, 2012 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 9, 2012 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 9, 2012 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 26, 2016 by EOL − Bob O’Kennon (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 15, 2015 by EOL − Bob O’Kennon (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken Apr 4, 2014 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 4, 2014 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 4, 2014 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 4, 2014 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 27, 2016 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken Jan 15, 2022 by Rodrigo Fernandez (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3771748)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:962380-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Justicia pilosella (Nees) Hilsenb.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Growth