Bauhinia mollis

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Distribution

This plant exhibits a diverse range of habitats across the South American continent. In Western South America, its presence is specifically noted within the borders of Bolivia. Its distribution in Brazil is extensive, covering the North, West-Central, and Southeast regions. Moving toward the southern portion of the continent, it can also be found in the Northeast of Argentina. Together, these locations illustrate a broad geographical spread throughout various South American territories.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Bauhinia mollis is defined by its adaptability to diverse South American landscapes, thriving across a broad altitudinal gradient that spans from sea level (0 m AMSL) up to a maximum elevation of 1500 m AMSL. This species is primarily found within specific vegetation types, specifically inhabiting the Cerrado (latu sensu) biomes, as well as within Ciliar forests (Riparian forests) or Galeria forests. These habitats provide the necessary environmental conditions for its development, ranging from the open, seasonal shrublands of the Cerrado to the more humid and sheltered corridors of forest gallery systems.

Elevational range max:

1500 m AMSL

Elevational range min:

0 m AMSL

Habitat :

Cerrado (lato sensu), Floresta Ciliar ou Galeria

Life history

The life history of Bauhinia mollis is characterized by its status as a perennial organism, allowing it to persist through multiple growing seasons and establish a long-term presence in its ecosystem. In terms of its structural growth strategy, the plant is classified as a phanerophyte, specifically exhibiting both phanerophyte and nanophanerophyte characteristics, which indicates that its perennating buds are located on aerial shoots well above the soil surface. This life form enables the plant to maintain its woody structure and reproductive capacity over extended periods, relying on its elevated buds to survive unfavorable environmental conditions.

Life form :

phanerophyte

Lifecycle :

perennial

Morphology

The morphology of Bauhinia mollis is characterized by a woody growth form that primarily manifests as a tree or a large shrub. Reaching a maximum plant height of approximately 6 m, the species is a terrestrial plant, existing independently without parasitic or epiphytic tendencies, as it is neither an obligate nor facultative epiphyte. It is a self-supporting organism, lacking the climbing habits of vines or lianas, and does not exhibit aquatic or semiaquatic lifestyles. Its structural integrity is defined by its woody nature, providing a sturdy, upright habit suitable for its terrestrial habitat.

Aquatic :

terrestrial

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Growth form :

tree

Growth form :

shrub

Parasite :

independent

Plant height max:

6 m

Woodiness :

woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Plant Parts

Bauhinia mollis has 1 reported plant parts identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases that are studied for medicinal purposes. The most consistently reported plant part include seed.

Seed

1. Agents and actions. Supplements

Preparations

Bauhinia mollis has 1 reported preparations identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported preparations include seeds.

Seeds

1. Agents and actions. Supplements