Owenia acidula
Owenia acidula
Owenia acidula (pronunciation: o-WEEN-ee-uh a-SID-yoo-luh) is a species of plant in the Melastomataceae family, native to Australia. It is commonly known as the vine-leafed melastome or vine-leafed owenia.
Etymology
The genus name, Owenia, is named in honor of Richard Owen, a British comparative anatomist and paleontologist. The species epithet, acidula, is derived from the Latin word 'acidus', meaning 'sour' or 'acidic', possibly referring to the taste of the plant's fruit or leaves.
Description
Owenia acidula is a small tree or shrub that grows up to 10 meters tall. The leaves are vine-like, hence the common name, and the flowers are pink or purple. The fruit is a berry that turns black when ripe.
Distribution and habitat
Owenia acidula is found in the northern parts of Australia, particularly in the Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open forests, woodlands, and coastal areas.
Uses
The fruit of Owenia acidula is edible and has a sour taste, hence the species name. It has been used by Indigenous Australians as a food source. The wood of the plant is also used for making tools and other items.
Related terms
- Melastomataceae: The family to which Owenia acidula belongs.
- Richard Owen: The person after whom the genus Owenia is named.
- Northern Territory: One of the regions in Australia where Owenia acidula is found.
- Queensland: Another region in Australia where Owenia acidula is found.
- Western Australia: Another region in Australia where Owenia acidula is found.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Owenia acidula
- Wikipedia's article - Owenia acidula
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