Status:
valid
Authors:
Baker f.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1932
Citation Micro:
Rev. Zool. Bot. Africaines21: 303 (1932)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000178843
Common Names
- Abrus wittei
- Abrus precatorius
- Abrus cantoniensis
Description
Abrus wittei (also called White Abrus, among many other common names) is a shrub species native to South America. It grows to a height of up to 2 meters and has a trunk diameter of up to 10 centimeters. It is found in dry tropical forests, especially in the Atlantic Forest and Cerrado regions.
Uses & Benefits
Abrus wittei is used as an ornamental plant, for its showy flowers and foliage. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Abrus wittei is a small, yellow, star-shaped flower with four petals. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedlings are small, thin, and have a light green color.
Cultivation and Propagation
Abrus wittei is a perennial shrub that can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring in a warm, sunny location. Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in moist soil. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Where to Find Abrus wittei
Abrus wittei can be found in tropical regions of Central and South America, including Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina.
Abrus wittei FAQ
What is the scientific name of Abrus wittei?
Abrus wittei
What is the common name of Abrus wittei?
Witte's Abrus
What is the natural habitat of Abrus wittei?
Dry forests, scrublands, and grasslands
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