Family: Clethraceae
Author: DC.
Bibliography: Prodr. 7: 590 (1839)
Year: 1839
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Clethra
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico to Guatemala
Description
Nance macho, known scientifically as Clethra mexicana, is a remarkable species belonging to the Clethraceae family. First described in 1839, this plant was officially documented by the esteemed botanist DC. The species boasts a rich heritage rooted deeply in the landscapes stretching from Mexico to Guatemala.
Clethra mexicana is admired for its striking presence within its native habitat. Typically found in montane environments, this plant is well-adapted to the ecological conditions of these regions, thriving particularly in areas with sufficient moisture and cool climates. The name ‘nance macho’ reflects its robust and hardy nature, characteristics which have enabled it to flourish in diverse locales.
Botanically, Clethra mexicana exhibits a variety of noteworthy features. It often appears as a shrub or small tree, recognized for its luxuriant foliage and attractive flowers. The leaves are generally broad, glossy, and dark green, adding a vibrant touch to its surroundings. During its blooming period, nance macho produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers that can be quite appealing, contributing to the plant’s aesthetic and ecological value.
The plant holds significant ecological importance, frequently contributing to the biodiversity and stability of the forests it inhabits. It offers sustenance and habitat for various local wildlife species, playing a crucial role within its ecosystem. The fragrance and nectar of Clethra mexicana’s flowers attract a myriad of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, thus supporting the pollination processes essential for ecosystem health.
Throughout its range, Clethra mexicana has also found use in traditional practices and local horticulture. Although it is more commonly appreciated for its ornamental qualities, its presence is often seen as beneficial in both natural and cultivated settings.
Understanding and preserving such species is vital not only for their intrinsic botanical interest but also for the broader ecological implications they present. Clethra mexicana, with its historical, ecological, and botanical significance, continues to be a subject of interest for botanists and plant enthusiasts alike, reflecting the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of the regions it inhabits.
Common Names
Eng: nance macho
En: Nance macho
Synonyms
- Clethra integrifolia (Moc. & Sessé ex DC.)
- Clethra michoacana (C.W.Ham.)
- Clethra ovalifolia (Moc. & Sessé ex DC.)
- Clethra quercifolia (Lindl.)
- Clethra kowalewskii (Turcz.)
- Kowalewskia integerrima (Turcz.)
- Clethra bimatris (Standl. & Steyerm.)
- Clethra integerrima ((Turcz.) L.M.González)
Distribution
- Guatemala (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
Additional Images
Fruit
Taken Jun 1, 2013 by SINAC Pérez Greivin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 1, 2013 by SINAC Pérez Greivin (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Feb 22, 2016 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 14, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 1, 2013 by SINAC Pérez Greivin (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Feb 22, 2016 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 22, 2016 by Daniel Barthelemy (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.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3718266)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:327610-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Clethra mexicana DC.)
