Status:
valid
Authors:
Sleumer
Source:
tro
Year:
1936
Citation Micro:
Repert. Spec. Nov. Regni Veg. 41: 121 (1936)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001047885
Common Names
- Sphyrospermum
- Sphyrospermum Heath
- Elliptic-leaved Heath
Description
Sphyrospermum ellipticum (also called S. ellipticum, among many other common names) is a species of plant in the Ericaceae family. It is a shrub that is native to South America, specifically in the countries of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It typically grows in moist montane forests at elevations of 1,000-2,500 meters.
Uses & Benefits
Sphyrospermum ellipticum is used as an ornamental plant and is also used in traditional medicine.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Sphyrospermum ellipticum has small, white, bell-shaped flowers with five petals. Its seeds are small, dark brown and oval-shaped. The seedlings have two small, opposite leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Sphyrospermum ellipticum is a shrub that can be propagated from seed or cuttings. It prefers a moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C (23°F). Pruning is recommended to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth.
Where to Find Sphyrospermum ellipticum
Sphyrospermum ellipticum can be found in the tropical rainforests of Colombia and Ecuador.
Species in the Sphyrospermum genus
Sphyrospermum boekei,
Sphyrospermum buesii,
Sphyrospermum buxifolium,
Sphyrospermum campanulatum,
Sphyrospermum cordifolium,
Sphyrospermum dissimile,
Sphyrospermum distichum,
Sphyrospermum ellipticum,
Sphyrospermum flaviflorum,
Sphyrospermum grandifolium,
Sphyrospermum haughtii,
Sphyrospermum klotzschianum,
Sphyrospermum lanceolatum,
Sphyrospermum linearifolium,
Sphyrospermum longifolium,
Sphyrospermum microphyllum,
Sphyrospermum munchiqueense,
Sphyrospermum muscicola,
Sphyrospermum myrtifolium,
Sphyrospermum sessiliflorum,
Sphyrospermum sodiroi,
Sphyrospermum spruceanum,
Sphyrospermum standleyi,
Sphyrospermum tuberculatum,
Sphyrospermum weberbauerii,
Species in the Ericaceae family