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Puerto Rico thoroughwort

Scientific Name: Critonia portoricensis

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub, Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Critonia portoricensis: Puerto Rico Thoroughwort

Critonia portoricensis, commonly known as Puerto Rico Thoroughwort, is a plant with a fascinating distribution and several interesting botanical connections.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions "thorn bushes that grow in Puerto Rico" in user questions. While this refers to other species, it indicates that thorny plants are found in the region, a factor to be generally aware of for pet owners.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant is mentioned alongside other species, some of which might have properties (e.g., sap, small parts) that could be of concern.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Critonia portoricensis (Urb.) Britton & P. Wilson
  • Common Name: Puerto Rico Thoroughwort
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower Family)
  • Synonyms and Related Species: The text also mentions several other "thoroughwort" species, including:
    • Cape Sable Thoroughwort (Chromolaena frustrata and Chromolaena geraniifolia)
    • Geraniumleaf Thoroughwort (Chromolaena geraniifolia)
    • Bigelow's Thoroughwort (Chromolaena borinquensis and Eupatorium bigelovii)
    • Late-flowering Thoroughwort (Eupatorium serotinum)
    • Florida Keys Thoroughwort (Eupatorium villosum, synonym Koanophyllon villosum)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Puerto Rico.
  • Also found in Mexico and the United States.
  • Some Critonia species are also found in Antarctica and Costa Rica, though it's not specified if C. portoricensis is among them.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Growth Habit: Shrub, Subshrub, or Tree

Ecological Role

  • The text notes the "endangered species status for Cape Sable thoroughwort, Florida" indicating conservation concerns for some species within the broader "thoroughwort" grouping.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • References to thoroughwort being visited by butterflies, and leaves hosting spiders indicates a role in local ecosystems.

Resources and Further Information

  • Discover Life: The text refers to Discover Life's page about Critonia portoricensis.
  • EOL (Encyclopedia of Life): Curators on EOL are mentioned as reviewing content about the plant.
  • Garden Guides: This resource is mentioned as providing information on gardening with Puerto Rico Thoroughwort.