SafePlants

Jarilla: A Multifaceted Plant with Diverse Applications

The name "Jarilla" can refer to several different entities, including a plant genus, a geographical location, and various plant species with medicinal properties.

Considerations for Pets

• Sap and Glandular Hairs: The text mentions "pelos glandulares" (glandular hairs) on the leaves of *Larrea* species (often referred to as Jarilla), which release aromatic compounds when heated. While the text doesn't explicitly state toxicity, the presence of sap and volatile oils might warrant caution around pets who may ingest or come into contact with the plant.

Considerations for Children

• Sap and Glandular Hairs: Similar to the consideration for pets, the glandular hairs on the leaves may contain substances that could cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Jarilla Rusby
• Family: Caricaceae
• Order: Brassicales
• Synonyms and related species:
  • Larrea cuneifolia (often referred to as "Jarilla macho")
  • Larrea divaricata Cav (also known as "Jarilla")
  • Jarilla caudata (Brandegee) Standl.
  • Jarilla chocola Standl.
  • Jarilla heterophylla (Cerv. ex La Llave) I.M.Johnst.
• Other names associated with the term 'Jarilla':
  • Barkleyanthus salicifolius (Kunth) H.E. Robins, also known as azumiate or alzumiate.

Common Names

• Jarilla
• Jarilla amarilla (Yellow Jarilla)
• Jarilla blanca (White Jarilla)
• Jarilla verde (Green Jarilla)
• Jarilla macho
• Other related common names mentioned: azumiate, chilca, jara mexicana.

Distribution and Habitat

• Endemic to South America.
• Found in various countries, suggesting a wide distribution.
• Mention of specific locations like Jarilla (Cáceres, Extremadura) and Andalusia (Spain), although these might refer to geographical locations rather than the plant's natural habitat.
• Also found in meseta patagónica (Patagonian Plateau).

Morphological Characteristics

• Leaves of some species (like *Larrea*) have glandular hairs that release aromatic oils.
• The flowers of *Larrea cuneifolia* are described as "muy llamativa" (very striking).

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

• The plant is described as a popular medicinal plant with abundant presence in various countries.
• Used internally and externally for various treatments.
• Three varieties with similar medicinal properties are mentioned: Jarilla crespa (Larrea ntida).

Quirky Facts

• The genus *Larrea* was named in honor of a cleric who was passionate about the world of plants.
• The glandular hairs on the leaves of some Jarilla species explode with heat, releasing aromas.

Further Information

• The Plant List database (mentions 8 scientific plant names for the genus Jarilla).