Status:
valid
Authors:
G.J.Campb. & B.-E.van Wyk
Source:
tro
Year:
2001
Citation Micro:
S. African J. Bot.67: 123 (2001)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001267595
Common Names
- Winged Rafnia
- Winged Rafnia
- Winged Rafnia
Description
Rafnia alata (also called Winged Rafnia, among many other common names) is a species of plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 5 m tall and is native to the Neotropical ecozone of Central and South America. It is found in moist, lowland forests.
Uses & Benefits
Rafnia alata is used as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and other outdoor spaces. It is known for its bright, showy flowers and its long flowering season. It is also used medicinally for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Rafnia alata has small, white flowers with yellowish-green centers. The seeds are small and round, with a dark brown color. The seedlings are small and thin, with light green leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Rafnia alata is a small evergreen shrub that grows in tropical and subtropical climates. It is easy to propagate by cuttings or by seed. Cuttings should be taken from the current season’s growth and planted in a well-drained, sandy soil. Seeds should be sown in a light, sandy soil and kept moist until germination. Once established, Rafnia alata requires little maintenance and is drought-tolerant.
Where to Find Rafnia alata
Rafnia alata is native to Brazil and can be found in the wild in the states of Bahia, Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo.
Rafnia alata FAQ
What is the scientific name of Rafnia alata?
Rafnia alata
What is the family of Rafnia alata?
Rafflesiaceae
What is the common name of Rafnia alata?
Winged Rafnia
Species in the Rafnia genus
Rafnia racemosa,
Rafnia affinis,
Rafnia amplexicaulis,
Rafnia angulata,
Rafnia axillaris,
Rafnia capensis,
Rafnia crassifolia,
Rafnia crispa,
Rafnia cuneifolia,
Rafnia elliptica,
Rafnia diffusa,
Rafnia divaricata,
Rafnia lancea,
Rafnia opposita,
Rafnia ovata,
Rafnia retroflexa,
Rafnia spicata,
Rafnia triflora,
Rafnia virens,
Rafnia lebeckioides,
Rafnia ecklonis,
Rafnia erecta,
Rafnia gibba,
Rafnia capensis,
Rafnia schlechteriana,
Rafnia alata,
Rafnia rostrata,
Rafnia globosa,
Rafnia inaequalis,
Rafnia vlokii,
Rafnia acuminata,
Species in the Fabaceae family