Vernonanthura polyanthes
| Vernonanthura polyanthes | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification 
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Vernonanthura |
| Species: | V. polyanthes
|
| Binomial name | |
| Vernonanthura polyanthes (Spreng.) Vega & M.Dematteis
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| Synonyms | |
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Vernonanthura polyanthes is a species of Neotropical plant in the tribe Vernonieae.
Description[edit]
It is a shrub or small tree, bearing white flowers in terminal heads during late winter (July to August).[1] Its vertical bole and dull green, oblong-lanceolate leaves may remind of a Eucalyptus species.
Range and habitat[edit]
It is native to Brazil but was introduced to Sussundenga, Mozambique, in the early 1990s from where it quickly spread to Zimbabwe.[1] In Africa it is a dominant invasive species, but it appears to compete best in disturbed areas along roadsides or along forest margins. It has invaded higher altitudes in lower densities.[1]
Uses and agricultural impact[edit]
Its ample nectar supplies nourishment to bees in winter. For that reason it was introduced to Mozambique, but it also takes over fallow lands, where their eradication is labour-intensive.
References[edit]
- ^ a b c Hyde, Mark; et al. "Vernonanthura polyanthes (Spreng.) Vega & Dematteis". Flora of Zimbabwe. Retrieved 27 July 2018.