Family: Rubiaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 176 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Morinda
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: Florida to Caribbean, SE. Mexico to Ecuador
Description
The Redgal, scientifically known as Morinda royoc, is a fascinating perennial plant belonging to the Rubiaceae family, which is noted for its significant diversity and economic importance. Originally described in 1753 by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus, it bears a Latin classification in his seminal work, Species Plantarum.
Redgal thrives in a variety of habitats ranging from the sunny expanses of Florida to the lush tropical environments of the Caribbean. Its geographical distribution extends further, reaching the southeast regions of Mexico and stretching its presence down to the verdant landscapes of Ecuador. This wide range showcases its adaptability and resilience in different climatic conditions.
The plant itself is characterized by its distinctive small, greenish flowers that bloom in clusters, eventually giving rise to its unique fruit. The fruit is typically spherical with a bumpy texture and turns from green to yellow or red as it matures. This characteristic transformation not only makes it an intriguing subject for botanists but also a noticeable feature in the wild.
Historically, Redgal has been used in traditional medicine across many cultures within its growing range. Folk remedies have employed various parts of the plant for their reputed health benefits. The roots, in particular, are often harvested and utilized for their supposed therapeutic properties.
Ecologically, Morinda royoc plays a role in its habitat by providing food and shelter for various species. It contributes to the local biodiversity, supporting a range of insects, birds, and other wildlife that interact with it.
For those intrigued by medicinal plants or botanicals, Redgal offers an exemplar of nature’s diverse and useful flora. Whether found dotting a sunny beach or nestled in a tropical thicket, it stands as a testament to the richness of the Rubiaceae family and the enduring curiosity that surrounds botanical exploration.
Common Names
Eng: redgal
En: Redgal
Synonyms
- Morinda ferruginea (A.Rich.)
- Morinda yucatanensis (Greenm.)
- Morinda royoc var. ferruginea ((A.Rich.) Griseb.)
- Morinda royoc var. latifolia (Griseb.)
- Morinda royoc f. pubescens (Ekman)
Distribution
- Aruba (native)
- Bahamas (native)
- Belize (native)
- Cayman Is. (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- Florida (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Netherlands Antilles (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Southwest Caribbean (native)
- Venezuela (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken May 2, 2020 by bizier frank (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 31, 2022 by Gisela Salvatierra Soñanes (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2010 by EOL − David Lee (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2010 by EOL − David Lee (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken May 2, 2020 by bizier frank (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2020 by bizier frank (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 19, 2021 by Andy (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 31, 2022 by Gisela Salvatierra Soñanes (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 22, 2010 by EOL − Matt Below (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 10, 2020 by Alfredo Dorantes Euan (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 10, 2020 by Alfredo Dorantes Euan (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 17, 2010 by EOL − David Lee (cc-by-nc-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/3845846)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:756470-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Morinda royoc L.)
