Lecythis (Lecythis minor, Select. Stirp. Amer. Hist.: 168 (1763))

Family: Lecythidaceae

Author: Jacq.

Bibliography: Select. Stirp. Amer. Hist.: 168 (1763)

Year: 1763

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lecythis

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Panama to NW. Venezuela

Description

Lecythis, scientifically known as Lecythis minor, is a fascinating and notable species that belongs to the Lecythidaceae family. This lush plant holds a significant place within the diverse flora of its native range, stretching from Panama to Northwestern Venezuela.

The Lecythis minor is characterized by its distinct features that make it easily identifiable. This plant is often noted for its robust structure and the unique shape of its fruit, which has intrigued botanists and plant enthusiasts alike for centuries. The lush foliage and the vibrant components of its reproductive system contribute to its ecological importance and aesthetic appeal.

First documented in 1763 by the esteemed botanist Jacquin in his seminal work “Select. Stirp. Amer. Hist.: 168,” Lecythis minor has since held an esteemed position in botanical studies. Its introduction to the scientific community marked the beginning of detailed investigations into its morphology, habitat preferences, and ecological roles.

Residing in habitats ranging from the tropical landscapes of Panama to the verdant regions of Northwestern Venezuela, Lecythis minor thrives in these climates, adding to the biodiversity and richness of these ecosystems. Its presence plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance, impacting various fauna and flora that interact with it.

The Lecythidaceae family, to which Lecythis minor belongs, consists of several other noteworthy species, many of which are similarly known for their ecological importance and unique characteristics. Researchers and botanists continually study Lecythis minor, contributing to a growing understanding of its behavior, growth patterns, and potential uses.

Understanding Lecythis minor sheds light on the broader ecological and environmental dynamics at play within its native regions. Moreover, it highlights the significance of preserving such species that are not only scientifically intriguing but also crucial for the health of their ecosystems.

Common Names

Spa: coco de mono
Eng: lecythis
En: Lecythis
Ar: لوسيت صغير
Zh: 小猴胡桃
Es: Coco de mono
Zh-tw: 小猴胡桃

Synonyms

• Lecythis magdalenica (Dugand)
• Chytroma bipartita ((Pittier) R.Knuth)
• Chytroma valida (Miers)
• Eschweilera valida ((Miers) Nied.)
• Lecythis bipartita (Pittier)
• Lecythis elliptica (Kunth)
• Eschweilera bolivarensis (R.Knuth)
• Lecythis purdiei (R.Knuth)

Distribution

• Colombia (native)
• Panamá (native)
• Venezuela (native)
• El Salvador (introduced)
• Honduras (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jul 18, 2020 by Araujo Giorgio (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jul 19, 2020 by Araujo Giorgio (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/3082392)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:597290-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lecythis minor Jacq.)

Specifications

Growth