Psychotria brachyceras

Psychotria brachyceras, commonly known as a medicinal shrub in certain tropical regions, holds significant ethnobotanical value. Often utilized in traditional healing practices, this plant is studied for its unique bioactive compounds. Understanding its chemical properties and cultural applications is essential for exploring its potential in modern pharmacological research.

  • Scientific name: Psychotria brachyceras
  • Family: Rubiaceae
  • Native range: Southern America

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae and order Gentianales, it is a member of the Rubiaceae family. Finally, it is specifically categorized under the genus Psychotria, with its species name being brachyceras.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Gentianales WCVP
Family Rubiaceae WCVP
Genus Psychotria WCVP

Common Names

This plant, Psychotria brachyceps, is known by several different common names depending on the linguistic and regional context. In English, it is referred to as the short-tailed psychotria, while in Spanish, it is commonly called psychotria de tallo corto. Additionally, in Portuguese, the plant is known as psychotria de caule curto.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant exhibits a specific range of occurrence within the South American continent. Its documented presence is concentrated primarily within the borders of Brazil. Specifically, it can be found inhabiting the diverse ecosystems of Southeast Brazil. Additionally, the species extends its range into the southern regions of the country. Therefore, its geographical distribution is limited to the Southeast and South of Brazil.

Region Area Source
Brazil Brazil Southeast WCVP
Brazil Brazil South WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, Psychotria brachyceps, possesses a diverse range of anatomical components that contribute to its biological life cycle and medicinal potential. The foliage consists of both young and old leaves, which differ in texture and chemical composition as they undergo maturation. Beneath the soil, the roots provide essential stability and nutrient absorption for the organism. The life cycle is facilitated by its reproductive structures, which are responsible for the production of genetic material. Following successful fertilization, the plant develops mature fruits that protect the developing embryos. Finally, the cycle is completed through quiescent seeds, which remain in a state of dormancy until environmental conditions become favorable for germination.
Total parts
10
Scientific sources
10
Plant Part Sources Confidence
young and old leaves 1 ★☆☆☆☆
roots 1 ★☆☆☆☆
reproductive structures 1 ★☆☆☆☆
quiescent seeds 1 ★☆☆☆☆
mature fruits 1 ★☆☆☆☆
leaves 1 ★☆☆☆☆
leaf 1 ★☆☆☆☆
inflorescences 1 ★☆☆☆☆
green stems 1 ★☆☆☆☆
aerial vegetative organs 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Chemicals

Psychotria brachyceras has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include Brachycerine.

Total chemicals
1
Scientific sources
1

Most Reported Compounds

Compound Sources Confidence
Brachycerine 1 ★☆☆☆☆