Moquiniastrum polymorphum

Moquiniastrum polymorphum, commonly known as a versatile medicinal shrub, holds significant value in traditional herbal practices. Renowned for its diverse phytochemical profile, this plant offers potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in treating inflammation and skin ailments. Understanding its botanical properties is essential for exploring its role in natural pharmacology.

  • Scientific name: Moquiniastrum polymorphum
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Native range: Southern America

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Asterales, it is classified under the family Asteraceae. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Moquiniastrum, as part of the species Moquiniastrum polymorphum.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Asterales WCVP
Family Asteraceae WCVP
Genus Moquiniastrum WCVP

Common Names

This plant, Moquinia polymorphum, is known by various common names depending on the linguistic and regional context. In English, it is frequently referred to as the climbing moquinia, while in Portuguese, it is commonly called moquinia. In Spanish, the plant is known as moquinia, and in French, it is identified as moquinia.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant exhibits a wide distribution across several regions of Brazil, including the West-Central, Northeast, Southeast, and South areas. Beyond the borders of Brazil, its presence extends into the Southern South America region. Specifically, it can be found growing within the Northeast portion of Argentina. This broad range demonstrates the species' ability to adapt to diverse environments across the continent. Consequently, its geographical footprint spans a significant portion of the South American landscape.

Region Area Source
Brazil Brazil West-Central WCVP
Brazil Brazil Northeast WCVP
Brazil Brazil Southeast WCVP
Brazil Brazil South WCVP
Southern South America Argentina Northeast WCVP
Southern South America Paraguay WCVP
Southern South America Uruguay WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, Moquinia strum polymorphum, utilizes its leaves as a significant component in its medicinal profile. These leaves are characterized by their distinct morphological features, which are essential for the plant's identification and its pharmacological potential. In various traditional practices, the leaves are often processed or decocted to extract bioactive compounds that contribute to the plant's therapeutic properties.
Total parts
1
Scientific sources
2
Plant Part Sources Confidence
leaves 2 ★☆☆☆☆