Status:
valid
Authors:
(K.Schum.) C.D.Specht
Source:
wcs
Year:
2006
Citation Micro:
Taxon 55: 162 (2006)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000806298
Common Names
- Paracostus Paradoxus
- Paradox Paracostus
- Paracostus
Description
Paracostus paradoxus (also called Paracostus, among many other common names) is a small, evergreen shrub native to Central and South America. It has a dense, rounded crown and glossy, dark green leaves. Its small, white flowers are fragrant and have a yellow center.
Uses & Benefits
Paracostus paradoxus is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a groundcover. It is also used for erosion control and as a medicinal plant.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Paracostus paradoxus flowers are small and yellow in colour. The seeds are small and winged, and the seedlings are small and green.
Cultivation and Propagation
Paracostus paradoxus is an evergreen perennial that can be propagated by division or by seed. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C (23°F). It can be propagated by division in spring or by seed in spring or autumn.
Where to Find Paracostus paradoxus
Paracostus paradoxus is native to Tanzania and can be found in the East African montane forests biome.
Paracostus paradoxus FAQ
What is the scientific name of Paracostus paradoxus?
Paracostus paradoxus
What is the natural habitat of Paracostus paradoxus?
Tropical rainforests of Central and South America
What are the care requirements for Paracostus paradoxus?
Paracostus paradoxus prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering.
Species in the Paracostus genus
Species in the Costaceae family
Chamaecostus congestiflorus,
Chamaecostus curcumoides,
Chamaecostus cuspidatus,
Chamaecostus fragilis,
Chamaecostus fusiformis,
Chamaecostus lanceolatus,
Chamaecostus subsessilis,
Chamaecostus acaulis,
Costus acanthocephalus,
Costus acreanus,
Costus adolphi-friderici,
Costus afer,
Costus allenii,
Costus amazonicus,
Costus arabicus,
Costus asplundii,
Costus asteranthus,
Costus barbatus,
Costus beckii,
Costus bicolor,
Costus bracteatus,
Costus chartaceus,
Costus chrysocephalus,
Costus claviger,
Costus clemensae,
Costus comosus,
Costus cordatus,
Costus cupreifolius,
Costus curvibracteatus,
Costus dendrophilus,
Costus dinklagei,
Costus dirzoi,
Costus dubius,
Costus erythrocoryne,
Costus erythrophyllus,
Costus erythrothyrsus,
Costus fortalezae,
Costus gabonensis,
Costus geothyrsus,
Costus giganteus,
Costus glaucus,
Costus guanaiensis,
Costus juruanus,
Costus laevis,
Costus lasius,
Costus lateriflorus,
Costus ledermannii,
Costus leucanthus,
Costus ligularis,
Costus lima,