Pilea crenulata
Pilea crenulata, commonly known as the scalloped pilea, is a charming tropical herb valued for its ornamental beauty and medicinal potential. Characterized by its distinctively wavy, textured foliage, this plant thrives in humid environments. It is traditionally utilized in various herbal practices to support wellness and promote healing.
- Scientific name: Pilea crenulata
- Family: Urticaceae
- Native range: Southern America
Taxonomical Classification
This plant, known scientifically as Pilea crenulata, belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta. It is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae within the order Rosales. Finally, it is a member of the family Urticaceae and is placed in the genus Pilea.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Rosales | WCVP |
| Family | Urticaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Pilea | WCVP |
Common Names
This plant, Pilea crenulata, is known by various common names depending on the linguistic and regional context. In English, it is frequently referred to as the crenate pilea, while in Spanish, it is commonly called la pilea crenulata. Additionally, in Portuguese, the species is known as pilea crenulata.| Language | Common Name | Source |
|---|
Distribution
This plant, known scientifically as Pilea crenulata, possesses a very specific and localized geographical range. Within the broader Caribbean region, its presence is notably documented in the island nation of Jamaica. This indicates that the species thrives under the unique tropical environmental conditions found there. Because its distribution is so restricted, it is considered an endemic element of the local flora. Consequently, understanding its habitat in Jamaica is essential for studying its natural ecological niche.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Caribbean | Jamaica | WCVP |
Plant Parts
This plant, Pilea crenulata, is a species where the medicinal properties are often associated with its various anatomical structures, most notably its roots. While the foliage and stems may be utilized in different botanical applications, the roots serve as a vital part of the plant's biological system, anchoring it firmly in the soil and facilitating the absorption of essential nutrients and water necessary for its growth. In many medicinal contexts involving similar species, the underground components like the roots are studied for their specific chemical compositions and potential therapeutic benefits.- Total parts
- 1
- Scientific sources
- 1
| Plant Part | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| roots | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |