Family: Polemoniaceae
Author: (Lam.) Brand
Bibliography: H.G.A.Engler (ed.), Pflanzenr., IV, 250: 174 (1907)
Year: 1907
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Loeselia
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico
Description
Mexican false calico, known scientifically as Loeselia mexicana, is a fascinating plant species belonging to the family Polemoniaceae. Originating in Mexico, this plant has been a subject of interest for botanists and plant enthusiasts alike due to its unique characteristics and vibrant presence in the natural landscape.
Historically, Loeselia mexicana was described in a detailed manner by the eminent botanist H.G.A. Engler in the early 20th century, specifically in volume IV, page 250:174 of his work “Pflanzenreich” published in 1907. The plant was subsequently classified under the authorship of (Lam.) Brand, further solidifying its scientific standing within the botanical community.
Native to Mexico, the Mexican false calico thrives in the region’s diverse climatic and ecological conditions. It is recognized for its striking and colorful flowers, which contribute significantly to the local flora. The plant’s vibrant blooms not only add beauty to the environment but also play a role in attracting pollinators, thus supporting the broader ecosystem.
The Polemoniaceae family, to which Loeselia mexicana belongs, is characterized by a variety of flowering plants that are often noted for their ornamental value. Members of this family are typically found in temperate and subtropical regions, where they contribute to the floral diversity with their distinctive blooms and foliage.
In cultivation, Loeselia mexicana can be appreciated for its ornamental appeal, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to enhance their landscapes with a touch of Mexican flora. Its adaptability and vibrant appearance ensure that it stands out in both natural and cultivated settings.
Overall, Loeselia mexicana, or the Mexican false calico, is a notable member of the Polemoniaceae family, celebrated for its beauty and botanical significance. Its presence in Mexico’s rich plant heritage underscores the importance of preserving and studying such species to maintain the diversity and health of ecosystems around the world.
Common Names
Eng: mexican false calico
En: Mexican false calico
Synonyms
- Cantua hoitzia (Willd.)
- Cantua coccinea (Poir.)
- Phlox spinosilla (Sessé & Moc.)
- Hoitzia coccinea (Cav.)
- Hoitzia mexicana (Lam.)
- Loeselia mexicana var. lutea (Brand)
- Loeselia coccinea (G.Don)
Distribution
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (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.
Leaf
Taken Jan 13, 2022 by Dante Oroz (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2927928)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:142920-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Loeselia mexicana (Lam.) Brand)
