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porcupine jointvetch

Scientific Name: Aeschynomene histrix

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Porcupine Jointvetch (Aeschynomene histrix)

Aeschynomene histrix, commonly known as Porcupine Jointvetch, is a legume with a range of interesting characteristics and uses.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant's common name, "Porcupine Jointvetch," suggests the possibility of sharp or prickly features.
  • As a member of the legume family, the plant may contain compounds that could be harmful to some animals if ingested in large quantities.

Scientific Classification

  • Scientific Name: Aeschynomene histrix Poir.
  • Common Names: Porcupine Jointvetch, Jointvetch
  • Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms:
    • Aeschynomene cassioides Desv.
    • Aeschynomene conferta Benth.
    • Aeschynomene echinus Vogel
    • Aeschynomene heurckeana Baker
    • Aeschynomene hintonii Sandwith

Morphology and Growth Habit

  • Aeschynomene histrix is a prostrate to semi-erect or erect tap-rooted perennial herb or sub-shrub.
  • It typically grows to a height of 10-80 cm.
  • In autumn, the plant assumes a yellow coloring.
  • It is not an evergreen, meaning it loses its foliage.

Distribution

  • The plant has been observed in the United States, including Southeastern Arizona.

Related Species

  • Other Aeschynomene species include:
    • Aeschynomene evenia (Shrubby Jointvetch)
    • Aeschynomene fascicularis
    • Aeschynomene indica (Indian Jointvetch)
    • Aeschynomene pratensis (Meadow Jointvetch)
    • Aeschynomene paniculata (Panicle Jointvetch)
    • Aeschynomene gracilis (Puerto Rico Jointvetch)
    • Aeschynomene rudis (Zigzag Jointvetch)

Agricultural Uses

  • Studies have explored the use of Porcupine Jointvetch as a protein source in animal feed, specifically as a replacement for soybean protein.

Further Information

  • Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Aeschynomene histrix.