Leuenbergeria lychnidiflora
Leuenbergeria lychnidiflora
Safety & Hazards
The fruit is of particular interest because its seeds are surrounded by stinging sclereid fibers of the locule wall. Although this may not be a factor preventing dispersal of the intact fruit, the fibers might act as a repellent against consumption of the seeds[ 1988 Title Pereskia (Cactaceae) Publication Memoirs of the New York Botanical Garden Volume 41 Author Leuenberger B.E. Publisher The New York Botanical Garden; Bronx, New York Year 1986 ISBN 0-89327-307-4 Description The genus Pereskia (sensu lato) has been divided into several genera since this treatment was written, but it still remains an excellent guide to the plants. ].
Botanical Description
Leuenbergeria lychnidiflora is a spiny, deciduous tree usually growing up to 10 metres tall, occasionally reaching up to 15 metres, with a broad crown. The short bole can be free of branches for 100 - 200cm and around 30 - 40cm in diameter[ 1988 Title Pereskia (Cactaceae) Publication Memoirs of the New York Botanical Garden Volume 41 Author Leuenberger B.E. Publisher The New York Botanical Garden; Bronx, New York Year 1986 ISBN 0-89327-307-4 Description The genus Pereskia (sensu lato) has been divided into several genera since this treatment was written, but it still remains an excellent guide to the plants. ]. The spines on the stems have been used as needles and the plant is sometimes grown as a living hedge and as an ornamental[ 1996 Title Las Cactáceae de Guatemala Publication Author Véliz M.E. Publisher Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala, Guatemala Year 2008 ISBN 99922-2-551-3 Description ]. Leuenbergeria lychnidiflora is widespread and abundant in most parts of its range, though in Costa Rica the species needs special attention because it is almost extinct. On a global level, however, the plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2017)[ 338 Title IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Publication Author Website http://www.iucnredlist.org/ Publisher Year 0 ISBN Description A list of plants under threat and facing possible extinction, usually with brief details of the threats and information on habitat. ].