Status:
valid
Authors:
Yakovlev
Source:
tro
Year:
1979
Citation Micro:
Novosti Sist. Vyssh. Rast.16: 138 (1979)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001061667
Common Names
- Exostyles Amazonica
- Amazonian Exostyles
- Amazonian Exostyles Tree
Description
Exostyles amazonica (also called Amazon Exostyles, among many other common names) is a shrub native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. It grows to a height of up to 10 feet, with trifoliate leaves and small, white flowers.
Uses & Benefits
Exostyles amazonica is used as a traditional medicine for treating fever, constipation, and other ailments. It is also used as a dye for fabrics and as a natural insect repellent.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Exostyles amazonica has small, yellow flowers with five petals and a single pistil. The seeds are small, brown and oval-shaped. Seedlings have a single stem with two to three pairs of leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Exostyles amazonica is a fast-growing, drought-tolerant species that can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-drained, sandy soil and kept moist until germination. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Both seed and cuttings should be kept in a warm, sunny location.
Where to Find Exostyles amazonica
Exostyles amazonica is native to the Amazon basin.
Species in the Exostyles genus
Species in the Fabaceae family