Smooth nowickea (Nowickea glabra)

Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Nowickea glabra: Endemic Flora of Mexico

Botanists J. Martínez G. and J. A. Mc Donald first described Nowickea glabra as part of the rich biodiversity found in Mexico. The known distribution of this species is specifically traced to the state of Morelos.

Taxonomically, it is classified under the genus Nowickea within the Phytolaccaceae family.

Taxonomy

  • царство Plantae
  • division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • Angiosperms
  • mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • eudicots
  • Superasterids
  • order Caryophyllales
  • family Phytolaccaceae (Pokeweed family)
  • genus Nowickea (Nowicke's weed)
  • species Nowickea glabra (Smooth nowickea)

Living Pulse

Morphology

The epithet glabra serves as the primary morphological indicator of Nowickea glabra during botanical expeditions. This technical terminology indicates that the stems and leaves present a completely smooth texture free of pubescence, a crucial distinguishing feature for its correct visual identification.

As an established member of the family Phytolaccaceae, the plant retains certain basic floral structures common to its evolutionary relatives. The cellular adaptation of its tissues has allowed it to thrive and survive in the specific microclimates present in Morelos.

Interesting facts

  • In direct contrast to other closely related species, Nowickea glabra is characterized by the largely complete absence of epidermal hairs (trichomes) on leaves and stems.
  • With its sharp altitude differences, its home state of Morelos offers ideal conditions for the formation of micro-habitats, which makes such high-degree endemism possible in the first place.
  • This plant shares its habitat with numerous other relict species and is often used in floristic studies as an indicator of ancient, largely undisturbed ecological niches.

Geography of distribution

  • Mexico

Sources

  • Catalogue of Life

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

True Araucarias

True Araucarias

Araucaria sect. Araucaria

Araucaria sect. Araucaria is a botanical section of evergreen conifers native to South America. It …