Scientific name: Morisonia flexuosa

POWO Status: Scrambling Tree

IUCN Red List threat level: Least Concern

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 59.54″ N, 64° 49′ 49.68″ W

Observations:

Phenological Markers- Raw Bone (Morisonia flexuosa)

Family: Morisoniaceae
Common Name: Flexuous Morisonia
Habitat: Native to tropical regions, especially in South America, including parts of Brazil, and typically found in forested areas or along rivers.

Phenological Markers:

• Flowering Period: Flowers generally bloom in late spring to early summer (May to July), although it can vary depending on local climate conditions. The flowers are typically small and appear in dense clusters, often yellow or pale green.
• Fruiting Period: The fruiting period occurs shortly after flowering and typically happens from late summer to early fall (August to October). The fruit is capsule-like, containing several seeds.
• Leaf Fall: Deciduous, with leaves shedding during the dry season or colder months.
• Budding Period: New growth and bud formation occur in early spring, around March or April, preceding the flowering phase.

Key Features:

• Leaves: Ovate to elliptical, dark green, and slightly glossy, with finely serrated margins.
• Flowers: Small, pale green to yellow, borne in dense clusters.
• Fruits: Capsule-like fruits with several seeds inside, which are dispersed by wind or water.

Additional Notes:

The species has a degree of ornamental value due to its attractive, clustered flowers, though it is more commonly noted for its ecological benefits.

Morisonia flexuosa is a fast-growing species typically found in riparian zones, where it helps stabilize soil.