Abrus precatorius - Uses, Benefits & Common Names
Status:
valid
Authors:
L.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1767
Citation Micro:
Syst. Nat. ed. 12, 2: 472 (1767)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000178702
Common Names
- Jequirity Bean
- Rosary Pea
- Prayer Beads
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Find Suppliers & Request SamplesDescription
Abrus precatorius (also called Rosary Pea, among many other common names) is an annual herb that can grow up to 30 cm in height. It is native to the southeastern United States and is found in dry, sandy soils. It has pink flowers with a yellow center and narrow, lance-shaped leaves.
Uses & Benefits
Abrus precatorius is used as a food source, for medicinal purposes, and as a fuel. The leaves can be eaten as a vegetable or brewed into a tea. The plant is also used to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, colds, and stomach problems.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Abrus precatorius sub. africanus Verdc.Abrus precatorius sub. precatorius
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Abrus precatorius is red in color and has five petals. The seed is a small, black, round seed with a hard outer shell. The seedlings are small, with bright green leaves.
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Find Suppliers & Request SamplesCultivation and Propagation
Abrus precatorius is a perennial plant that can be propagated by seed or cuttings. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly and fertilize once a month during the growing season. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
Where to Find Abrus precatorius
Abrus precatorius is native to tropical regions of the world and can be found in disturbed habitats, such as roadsides and waste places.
Abrus precatorius FAQ
What is the scientific name of Abrus precatorius?
Abrus precatorius
What is the family of Abrus precatorius?
Fabaceae
What is the common name of Abrus precatorius?
Jequirity
Species in the Abrus genus
Abrus canescens, Abrus laevigatus, Abrus precatorius, Abrus somalensis, Abrus wittei, Abrus bottae, Abrus baladensis, Abrus gawenensis, Abrus aureus, Abrus madagascariensis, Abrus parvifolius, Abrus sambiranensis, Abrus longibracteatus, Abrus melanospermus, Abrus fruticulosus, Abrus kaokoensis, Abrus diversifoliolatus,
Species in the Fabaceae family
References
Carl Linnaeus (1707-1778): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'L.' in the authors string.
Legume Data Portal link for: Abrus precatorius L.: Based on the 2022 Legume checklist.