Large-seeded Purslane (Portulaca macrosperma)

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Portulaca macrosperma: Species Profile and Bolivian Habitat

Native to the South American continent, Portulaca macrosperma specifically inhabits the Santa Cruz region of Bolivia. Botanist Diego Legrand originally documented and provided the formal botanical description for this distinct species. It is taxonomically classified under the genus Portulaca and the family Portulacaceae.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ core eudicots
  • ∟ Superasterids
  • ∟ order Caryophyllales
  • ∟ подотряд / подпорядок Portulacineae
  • ∟ family Portulacaceae (Purslane family)
  • ∟ genus Portulaca (Purslane genus)
  • ∟ species Portulaca macrosperma (Large-seeded Purslane)

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Morphology

The specific epithet macrosperma suggests the production of relatively large seeds compared to other species of the genus. Bolivian members of the genus Portulaca often exhibit a succulent morphology, with foliage adapted for water retention to endure periods of low rainfall.

Interesting facts

The specific epithet macrosperma translates from classical roots as having large seeds, indicating a distinct morphological trait of its reproductive structures. This species remains localized to specific Bolivian territories without widespread global naturalization.

Geography of distribution

  • Bolivia
  • Santa Cruz

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
  • Catalogue of Life

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

Mexican Purslane

Mexican Purslane

Portulaca mexicana

Portulaca mexicana is a low-growing succulent plant native to numerous states across Mexico. First described …

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Red-Stemmed Purslane

Red-Stemmed Purslane

Portulaca rubricaulis

An annual succulent herb characterized by distinctive reddish stems and solitary yellow flowers, found across …

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