Banisteriopsis laevifolia

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Banisteria laevifolia var. typica
• Banisteria grata
• Banisteria laevifolia
• Banisteria laevifolia var. grata
• Banisteria laevifolia var. multiflora
• Heteropterys angustifolia f. lanceolata
• Heteropterys laevifolia
• Heteropterys lanceolata
• Heteropterys micans

Sources: Wikidata, Catalogue of Life

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta within the class Equisetopsida. As a member of the subclass Magnoliidae and the order Malpighiales, it is specifically nested within the family Malpighiaceae. Finally, it is identified by its genus, Banisteriopsis, with the specific epithet laevifolia.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a diverse presence across the vast landscapes of Western South America, specifically within Bolivia. Its range extends significantly into Brazil, where it is found throughout the North region. The species also inhabits the central areas of the country, specifically within Brazil West-Central. Furthermore, the distribution covers the Southeast region of Brazil. Finally, the plant can be located within the Southern reaches of Brazil.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Banisteriopsis laevifolia is intrinsically linked to the diverse landscapes of the Cerrado (latos sensu), where it functions as a vital component of the complex forest and woodland structures. Within this biome, the species typically thrives in transitional zones and seasonal forests, utilizing its climbing growth habit to navigate the vertical strata of the vegetation. By anchoring itself to host trees, it accesses sunlight in the relatively open canopy characteristic of the Cerrado, playing a role in the structural complexity and nutrient cycling of its ecosystem. The plant's survival and distribution are closely tied to the seasonal moisture patterns and soil compositions inherent to the Cerrado, adapting to the periodic dry spells and the specific light availability found within these highly biodiverse tropical savannas.

Habitat :

Cerrado (lato sensu)

Life history

The life history of Banisteriopsis laevifolia is characterized by its status as a perennial species, allowing the plant to persist in its environment over multiple growing seasons. As a woody climber, its developmental cycle involves establishing a robust structural framework that enables it to ascend through the forest canopy to access sunlight. Throughout its lifespan, the plant undergoes seasonal cycles of vegetative growth and reproductive phases, utilizing its perennial nature to endure fluctuations in environmental conditions. This long-term survival strategy supports the continuous development of its climbing vines and the periodic production of flowers and seeds necessary for its propagation within its natural habitat.

Lifecycle :

perennial

Morphology

The morphology of Banisteriopsis laevifolia is characterized by its growth form as a shrub, though it functions as an obligatory climber within its ecosystem. It is a terrestrial species, existing neither as an aquatic nor a semiaquatic plant, and it maintains a terrestrial habit rather than acting as an epiphyte. The plant is an independent organism, showing no parasitic tendencies, and is classified as non-woody in its structural development.

Aquatic :

terrestrial

Climber :

obligatory

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Growth form :

shrub

Parasite :

independent

Woodiness :

non-woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Chemicals

Banisteriopsis laevifolia has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include Flavonoids.

Flavonoids

1. Chemistry & biodiversity