Heaven lotus (Gustavia augusta, Pl. Surin. 12: 17 (1775))

Family: Lecythidaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Pl. Surin. 12: 17 (1775)

Year: 1775

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Gustavia

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. Trop. America

Description

Known widely under its enchanting common name “Heaven Lotus,” Gustavia augusta is a captivating botanical marvel originating from the warm, lush environments of tropical South America. Classified in the family Lecythidaceae, this exotic plant has drawn the attention of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike for its stunning visual appeal and unique characteristics.

First identified and described in the 18th century by the eminent botanist Linnaeus, Gustavia augusta was officially documented in “Pl. Surin. 12: 17” back in the year 1775. This initial description provided the foundation for subsequent botanical studies and appreciation of this remarkable plant, which thrives in the lush, humid conditions of its native habitat.

The Heaven Lotus blooms into a striking display that resembles the ethereal beauty its name suggests. The flowers, large and lotus-like in appearance, exhibit an array of colors that can range from soft, pastel hues to vibrant pinks and whites, presenting a delicate and captivating contrast against the broad, glossy green leaves. These leaves are notably sturdy and provide a lush canopy, contributing to the plant’s overall grandeur and elegance.

Gustavia augusta not only enchants with its visual appeal but also plays a significant role in its ecosystem. As a member of the Lecythidaceae family, it shares many traits with other notable plants within this group. This includes a preference for tropical climates and an innate ability to thrive in humidity and warm temperatures, characteristic of the southern tropical regions of the Americas where it naturally occurs.

In addition to its botanical and ecological significance, Gustavia augusta offers an intriguing subject for further scientific research and horticultural interest. Its cultivation outside its native range can be challenging, requiring specific conditions that mimic its tropical origin. Nonetheless, for those able to provide the appropriate environment, the Heaven Lotus can become a stunning and cherished addition to botanical gardens and collections, a living testament to the diverse and wondrous plant life of our planet.

In summary, the Heaven Lotus, or Gustavia augusta, is much more than just an aesthetically pleasing plant. It is a documented piece of botanical history with roots deep in the tropical soils of South America. Its splendor and natural elegance continue to captivate those who encounter it, ensuring its place as a treasured specimen within the Lecythidaceae family.

Common Names

Por: castanha-fedorenta, jenipaparana, jeniparana, mata-matá-branco
En: Heaven Lotus
Fr: Bois pian
Pt: Japaranduba, Castanha fedorenta, Jenipaparana, Jeniparana, Mata-matá branco, Castanha-fedorenta, Mata-matá-branco
Es: Paco, Sachamango
: Heaven lotus

Synonyms

• Gustavia meizocarpa (Gaertn.)
• Gustavia mexiana (R.Knuth)
• Grias tetrapetala ((Aubl.) Nied.)
• Gustavia calycaris ((O.Berg) Miers)
• Gustavia brasiliensis (É.Morren)
• Gustavia tetrapetala ((Aubl.) Stokes)
• Japarandiba marcgraaviana ((Miers) Nied.)
• Pirigara tetrapetala (Aubl.)
• Gustavia membrillo (Appun)
• Gustavia augusta var. calycaris (O.Berg)
• Gustavia augusta var. brasiliensis (O.Berg)
• Gustavia augusta var. verrucosa (Mart. ex O.Berg)
• Gustavia augusta var. guianensis (O.Berg)
• Gustavia marcgraaviana (Miers)
• Grias mexiana (R.Knuth)
• Gustavia antillana (Miers)
• Gustavia theophrasta (Linden)
• Gustavia urceolata (Poit.)
• Grias aubletiana (Miers)
• Japarandiba augusta ((L.) Kuntze)
• Grias hexapetala (Hook. ex Urb.)
• Japarandiba antillana ((Miers) Nied.)
• Gustavia laciniosa (Miers)
• Gustavia poeppigiana var. rigida (O.Berg)
• Gustavia insignis (Linden ex Hook.)
• Gustavia angusta (J.F.Gmel.)

Distribution

• Bolivia (native)
• Brazil North (native)
• Brazil Northeast (native)
• Brazil Southeast (native)
• Brazil West-Central (native)
• Colombia (native)
• French Guiana (native)
• Guyana (native)
• Peru (native)
• Suriname (native)
• Venezuela (native)
• Trinidad-Tobago (introduced)
• Windward Is. (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Nov 13, 2021 by Senger Mario (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2005 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 13, 2021 by Jimmy leclercq (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 14, 2020 by corentin fleury (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 13, 2020 by España Sara (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Nov 28, 2019 by jp clo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 13, 2021 by Senger Mario (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 11, 2022 by Annelies Groot (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 3, 2020 by Flo Bony (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 29, 2019 by Nicolas Bibes (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 24, 2021 by jazz krn (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 16, 2021 by Giacomo Sellan (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Mar 12, 2015 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 12, 2015 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 12, 2015 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 12, 2015 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by R. Tournebize (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.

Habit

Taken Oct 19, 2021 by piz tro (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5383804)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:114915-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Gustavia augusta L.)

Specifications

Growth