Liane a corneSecamone volubilis
Category
- Forests
Description
Secamone volubilis is a climbing vine, with a milky latex, whose juvenile parts are covered with a reddish duvet. The leaves are leathery, elliptical, oblong and acute at the apex. The small flowers are yellowish green, and the fruit are green, conical and thin towards the top.
Habitat and ecology
This endemic species of Mauritius and Reunion is very rare. It grows in the intermediate forest, on rocky ridges, and in dry and windy regions. It stands in the form of a shrub when isolated. It is very rare to find a young plant in the wild.
Conservation and threats
This species is considered ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List. It is protected locally under the forest restoration project. The liana can be propagated by seeds and cuttings for conservation projects. The population is decreasing due to the invasion of exotic species.
Did you know?
Its milky sap is toxic and can cause burns if it comes into contact with the skin.
The first sample of this plant was collected by Klackenberg at Pointe aux Feuilles in 1974.
