Kingdom:
Phylum:
Angiosperms
Order:
Malpighiales
Family:
Genus:
Species:
alata
ID:
443900

Status:
valid

Authors:
Banks ex C.F.Gaertn.

Source:
cmp

Year:
1805

Citation Micro:
Suppl. Carp. : 52 (1805)

WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000443232

Common Names

  • Lophira alata
  • Winged Lophira
  • Winged Ironwood

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Synonyms

  • Lophira simplex G.Don [unknown]
  • Lophira barberi Tiegh. [unknown]
  • Lophira africana Loud. ex G.Don [unknown]
  • Lophira procera A.Chev. [unknown]
  • Lophira alata procera (A.Chev.) Burtt Davy [unknown]
  • Lophira barteri Tiegh. [unknown]
  • Lophira macrophylla Tiegh. [unknown]
  • Lophira thollonii Tiegh. [unknown]

Description

Lophira alata (also called Winged Lophira, among many other common names) is an evergreen shrub that is native to the tropical regions of Mexico and Central America. It has a spreading habit and grows to a height of 1-2 meters. It has glossy, dark green leaves and produces white, star-shaped flowers. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and is often found in open woodlands.

Uses & Benefits

Lophira alata is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. Its flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies and its leaves are used as a medicinal herb.

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

Lophira alata has small, yellow flowers with five petals and yellow centers. The seeds are small, black and oval-shaped. The seedlings are small and have a single, oval-shaped leaf.

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Cultivation and Propagation

Lophira alata is a perennial herb that is native to Africa. It can be propagated by seed or cuttings. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate some drought but should be watered regularly during the summer months. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Where to Find Lophira alata

Lophira alata is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.

Lophira alata FAQ

What is the scientific name of Lophira alata?

Lophira alata

What type of plant is Lophira alata?

Tree

Where is Lophira alata found?

West Africa

Species in the Lophira genus

Species in the Ochnaceae family

References

The Plant List v1.1 record kew-2493774: Based on the initial data import
Joseph Banks (1743-1820): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Banks' in the authors string.
Karl Friedrich von Gaertner (1772-1850): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'C.F.Gaertn.' in the authors string.