Family: Caryophyllaceae
Author: Willd. ex D.F.K.Schltdl.
Bibliography: Mag. Neuesten Entdeck. Gesammten Naturk. Ges. Naturf. Freunde Berlin 7: 196 (1816)
Year: 1816
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Stellaria
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: SC. U.S.A. to Venezuela and N. Argentina
Description
The Mexican starwort, scientifically known as Stellaria cuspidata, is a remarkable plant species belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family. This species was first documented in 1816, lending a historical perspective to its study within the botanical world. The first description of this plant was contributed by the renowned botanist Willdenow, with further elaboration provided by D.F.K. Schlechtendal.
Stellaria cuspidata can be found spanning a diverse geographic range, from the southeastern United States down through Venezuela and extending to northern Argentina. This wide distribution highlights its adaptability to various climates and ecosystems found within these regions.
The Mexican starwort is notable for its delicate appearance and star-like flowers, which contribute to its common name. The plant’s intricate floral structures and foliage have captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike, making it a subject of interest not only for its beauty but also for its ecological significance.
Adding to its botanical interest, Stellaria cuspidata is a testament to the richness of the Caryophyllaceae family, known for its wide variety of species that often feature small, star-shaped flowers. The study and observation of this plant provide valuable insights into the diversity and adaptability of the flora within its native habitats.
Overall, the Mexican starwort is not just a plant; it is a representation of botanical heritage and ecological diversity. Its presence from the southern United States to northern Argentina underscores its ecological significance and the need to understand and conserve such species for future generations.
Common Names
Eng: mexican chickweed, mexican starwort
En: Mexican starwort, Mexican chickweed
Synonyms
- Stellaria ciliata var. cuspidata ((Willd. ex D.F.K.Schltdl.) Rohrb.)
- Alsine cuspidata ((Willd. ex D.F.K.Schltdl.) Wooton & Standl.)
Distribution
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Argentina South (native)
- Bermuda (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Florida (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Peru (native)
- Texas (native)
- Venezuela (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Mar 16, 2015 by EOL − Alfonso Gutiérrez Aldana (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 7, 2016 by EOL − Raymundo Omar (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 7, 2016 by EOL − Raymundo Omar (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 16, 2015 by EOL − Alfonso Gutiérrez Aldana (cc-by-nc)
© 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 Feb 4, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 4, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 16, 2015 by EOL − Alfonso Gutiérrez Aldana (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 16, 2015 by EOL − Alfonso Gutiérrez Aldana (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 16, 2015 by EOL − Alfonso Gutiérrez Aldana (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5384613)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:244185-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Stellaria cuspidata Willd. ex Schltdl.)