bio.wikisort.org - Plant

Mucuna paniculata is a species of flowering, woody vine in the family Fabaceae, the bean family. It is native to northern Madagascar where it is locally known in Malagasy as vohinkovika.[1][4] It flowers between June and August.[1]

Mucuna paniculata
Conservation status
Least Concern  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Rosids
Order:	Fabales
Family:	Fabaceae
Subfamily:	Faboideae
Genus:	Mucuna
Species:	M. paniculata
Binomial name
Mucuna paniculata Baker[2]
Synonyms[3]
Mucuna horrida Baill. Mucuna myriaptera Baker

Distribution and habitat

Mucuna paniculata is found at elevations between sea level to 2,500 m (8,200 ft) in northern Madagascar. These vines can be found in both humid and sub-humid forests, usually near rivers and streams.[1]

Toxicity

Species in the genus Mucuna are known to carry irritant hairs. These hairs contain mucunain, an enzyme which causes itching.[5] This enzyme can be destroyed using heat.[6]

Cultivation

This plant usually grows well in well-drained soil under shade.[7] They are propagated with seeds.[4]

Conservation

It is listed as 'least concern' by the IUCN.[1]

Threats

Habitat destruction by slash-and-burn techniques pose a potential threat to the species.[1][4]

Protected areas

The species is found in the protected areas of the Betampona Integral Natural Reserve, Manongarivo Special Reserve, Marojejy National Park, Masoala National Park and Montagne d'Ambre National Park.[1]

References

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