Calea jamaicensis
Calea jamaicensis, commonly known as bitter bush or hierba margarita, is a perennial shrub native to Central and South America. Renowned in traditional medicine, it is primarily utilized for its potent psychoactive properties and its ability to induce vivid, lucid dreams, often used to facilitate spiritual or healing journeys.
- Scientific name: Calea jamaicensis
- Family: Asteraceae
- Native range: Southern America
Taxonomical Classification
This plant, Calea jamaicensis, belongs to the kingdom Plantae within the phylum Streptophyta. It is classified under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae, falling into the order Asterales. Finally, it is a member of the family Asteraceae within the genus Calea.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Asterales | WCVP |
| Family | Asteraceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Calea | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant is characterized by a very specific and limited geographical range. It is found exclusively within the Caribbean region. Specifically, its natural habitat is restricted to the island of Jamaica. Because of this narrow distribution, the species is considered an endemic plant to that area. Understanding this localized presence is essential for the conservation of the species.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Caribbean | Jamaica | WCVP |