Family: Apocynaceae
Author: (Jacq.) Müll.Arg.
Bibliography: C.F.P.von Martius & auct. suc. (eds.), Fl. Bras. 6(1): 175 (1860)
Year: 1860
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Rhabdadenia
Vegetable: False
Observations: S. Florida to Trop. America
Description
Mangrovevine (Rhabdadenia biflora) is an intriguing plant that thrives in a variety of tropical and subtropical environments, ranging from South Florida to Tropical America. Classified under the Apocynaceae family, this robust and versatile vine has captured the interest of botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.
First described by renowned botanist C.F.P.von Martius in his extensive work on Brazilian flora, “Flora Brasiliensis,” Rhabdadenia biflora has established itself as a significant subject in botanical studies since its publication in 1860. The scientific classification was later refined by Müll.Arg., adding depth and specificity to our understanding of this remarkable species.
Mangrovevine typically inhabits coastal areas, particularly favoring the unique ecosystem of mangroves. These plants are highly adaptive, thriving in the saline, waterlogged conditions that characterize mangrove forests. Their robust nature and ability to flourish in such environments make them a vital component of these coastal systems, contributing to the stability and health of the habitat.
Botanically, mangrovevine is known for its striking appearance. The plant displays large, glossy leaves that provide a lush, green canopy. During its blooming season, it produces beautiful, tubular flowers that capture the eye with their vibrant hues. These blooms not only add aesthetic value but also play a crucial role in the plant’s reproductive cycle, attracting a variety of pollinators that aid in its propagation.
The presence of mangrovevine serves several ecological roles. It offers shelter and breeding grounds for various wildlife species, from birds to small invertebrates. Furthermore, it contributes to preventing coastal erosion thanks to its extensive root system, which helps bind the soil and reinforce the structural integrity of the mangrove ecosystem.
Rhabdadenia biflora is more than just a plant; it’s a cornerstone of coastal biodiversity, representing the intricate relationships within mangrove ecosystems and the resilience of plant life in challenging environments. The continued study and conservation of mangrovevine are essential for maintaining the health and stability of these critical coastal regions.
Common Names
Eng: mangrovevine
En: Mangrovevine
Fr: Liane mangle
Synonyms
- Echites biflorus (Jacq.)
- Echites ehrenbergii (Schltdl.)
- Echites bilbergii (Beurl.)
- Rhabdadenia macrantha (Donn.Sm.)
- Apocynum nervosum (Mill.)
- Rhabdadenia paludosa ((Vahl) Miers)
- Rhabdadenia ehrenbergii ((Schltdl.) Müll.Arg. ex Griseb.)
- Dipladenia billbergii (Beurl.)
- Echites paludosus (Vahl)
- Exothostemon paludosus ((Vahl) G.Don)
- Rhabdadenia cordata (Miers)
- Rhabdadenia nervosa ((Mill.) Miers)
Distribution
- Bahamas (native)
- Belize (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Cayman Is. (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Florida (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Leeward Is. (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Trinidad-Tobago (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Windward Is. (native)
Additional Images
© 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.
Flower
Taken Nov 30, 1899 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 30, 1899 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 17, 2021 by shiwani P (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 5, 2021 by Herrero (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 22, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Nov 30, 1899 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 22, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Feb 22, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 22, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7981652)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:81684-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rhabdadenia biflora (Jacq.) Müll.Arg.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Vine
