Family: Solanaceae
Author: Dunal
Bibliography: A.P.de Candolle, Prodr. 13(1): 108 (1852)
Year: 1852
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Solanum
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: Trop. America
Description
Tabacon aspero, a fascinating plant species classified under the botanical scientific name Solanum rugosum, is a noteworthy member of the Solanaceae family. First described by the renowned botanist Michel Félix Dunal in A.P. de Candolle’s “Prodromus Systematis Naturalis Regni Vegetabilis” published in 1852, this plant holds a unique position within the diverse flora of tropical America.
Solanum rugosum is native to the lush and varied ecosystems of tropical America. It thrives in warm climates where it benefits from a balance of sunlight and humidity, characteristics that are prevalent in tropical regions. This geographical location has allowed the plant to evolve and adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions, contributing to its resilience and widespread presence in the area.
Tabacon aspero is distinguished by its rugged and textured appearance, a feature reflected in its scientific name “rugosum,” which hints at the plant’s coarse and wrinkled surface. This unique texture is not merely an aesthetic trait but also serves functional purposes, potentially aiding in moisture retention and protection from herbivores or environmental stressors.
Belonging to the Solanaceae family, which includes economically significant crops such as potatoes, tomatoes, and peppers, Solanum rugosum shares some of the characteristic features of this plant family. Solanaceae members are often noted for their alkaloid compounds, which can have various effects, from medicinal uses to toxicity. This chemical complexity contributes to the ecological interactions and survival strategies of Solanum rugosum in its native habitat.
The scientific exploration and documentation of Solanum rugosum provide valuable insights into the rich biodiversity of tropical America. The work of botanists like Dunal, through meticulous classification and description, continues to enhance our understanding of plant species and their roles within their ecosystems. As research progresses, further discovery regarding Tabacon aspero’s ecological relationships, potential uses, and conservation status is anticipated.
In conclusion, Solanum rugosum, commonly known as Tabacon aspero, is a significant botanical entity within the Solanaceae family. Its distinctive textured appearance, adaptability to tropical environments, and potential chemical properties make it an intriguing subject of study in the botanical community. The foundational work by Michel Félix Dunal remains a crucial reference point in the continuing exploration and appreciation of this remarkable plant species.
Common Names
Spa: tabacon aspero
En: Tabacon aspero
Es: Tabacon aspero, Lengua de Vaca
Synonyms
Distribution
- Belize (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Leeward Is. (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Windward Is. (native)
- Ivory Coast (introduced)
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.
Other
Taken Oct 4, 2008 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 4, 2008 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 4, 2008 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 4, 2008 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 4, 2008 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Flower
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:820831-1)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2929481)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Solanum rugosum Dunal)
