Latin America is a continent brimming with diverse biomes and landscapes, a true paradise for nature and flora lovers. The unique combination of climates, altitudes and habitats in Latin America has given rise to an exceptional variety of plants, from those adapted to the humidity of the Amazon rainforest to the hardy South American plants that survive in coastal deserts. Let's explore the wonderful flora of Latin America together!
Interesting Facts About Flora in Latin America — What Makes Them Special
The flora of Latin America are such unique and diverse marvels of nature that it has perplexed biologists and explorers since Columbus arrived in the Americas. Latin. Here are some fascinating facts about Latin American flora:
- Exclusive plants. Thanks to geographic isolation and evolution over millions of years, Latin America is home to a staggering number of endemic plants-that is, species found only in that region and nowhere else in the world.
- Extreme adaptation. From cacti that have learned to survive in arid deserts to aquatic plants that thrive in swamps, the flora of Latin America has developed a wide variety of adaptations to survive in the most diverse environments.
- Great contributions to medicine. Many Latin American plants have been implemented in medicines for centuries. From cinchona, which contains quinine used in the treatment of malaria, to yucca, which is an important source of nutritional energy in the region, Latin America has historically been a tremendous source of medicinal discovery.
- Profound symbolism. Latin America's flora is closely intertwined with the culture and history of the region. Many plants have symbolisms and spiritual meanings in indigenous and local communities, often featuring prominently in traditional festivities and rituals.
Latin American plants not only make an impression on the eye, but also play vital roles in ecosystems and the lives of the people who inhabit the region.
List of the South American Plants to Find in Amost Every House
Home gardeners all over the world host these South American plants. Often, they are not even recognized as being natively specific to Latin America! Check out the fun facts harbored by these world-travelling household plants.
Santa Teresita or Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera)
Region of origin: Brazil
The Santa Teresita is called the Christmas cactus because it blooms during the Christmas season— even though it’s winter! This prickly pal blooms more as it gets older, usually keeping its flowers for 3 to 6 weeks.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Region of origin: Central and South America
Despite its Latin American origin, potus is a very popular plant in North American homes. It can be grown in water, is very hardy and can be supported by guides to simulate the growth of a vine.
Maranta (Maranta leuconeura)
Region of origin: Tropical America (Central and South America)
The maranta has come to be known as the “prayer plant" because every night it folds its leaves; in the morning it opens them. It’s almost as if it’s in constant praise! The Prayer Plant is also one of the most striking tropical plants, due to its diverse color patterns.
Tradescantia
Country of origin: Tropical and subtropical America
Tradescantias are so easy to propagate that in some regions they can become invasive plants. These beautiful plants have a special dance, folding up in the night and spreading out gracefully for the daytime. Their dressy leaves are divided into two types, those illustrious “pallida” who wear an intense purple on their blades, and those who prefer the soft green stripes of the "zebrina" pattern.
Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)
Region of origin: Tropical regions of Central and South America.
The genus name "Monstera" comes from the Latin word meaning "monstrous" or "abnormal", and refers to the unusual leaves with natural holes. This has also earned it the less terrible name of "Swiss cheese plant".
Next time you see one of these at your friend's place, tell some facts about the greenies' heritage!
Unique Plants from South America
South America is home to botanical treasure troves which deserve to be explored in detail, including exotic flowers, majestic trees, and tasty fruits. Here we bring you a selection of exclusive plants that make South America a unique botanical paradise in the world. If you live in this region, remember that growing plants native to South America means taking care of your home ecosystem.
Flowers of Latin America
It wouldn't be a proper plant top list if there weren't flowers! Get ready for the best part.
Passionflower (Passiflora)
Region of origin: Various South American countries
Passionflowers, also known as "passion flower" or "pasiflora", strike admiration in all first time viewers. Although they look like rare plants, they are common and wild in South America and are widely used to relieve pain and reduce blood pressure.
Black Orchid (Trichocentrum undulatum)
Region of origin: Venezuela and Colombia
The black orchid is strongly drought resistant, and possesses a unique beauty within its deep obsidian flowers. Among all Latin American flowers, this one is considered a botanical rarity. It has a sweet and unforgettably intoxicating aroma that no perfume brand has been able to reproduce.
Cantuta (Cantua buxifolia)
Countries of origin: Peru and Bolivia
Cantuta or Inca flower is one of the native plants of South America and is the national flower of Peru and Bolivia. It is characterized by its striking colors: red, yellow and violet. In the Andes it is considered a sacred flower, following the Incan tradition which believed it to contain water-purifying essences.
Can you almost smell the fragrance through the screen?
Trees of Latin America
Let's pick one to build the tree house of our dreams!
Araucaria (Araucaria araucana)
Regions of origin: Chile and Argentina
The araucaria or pehuén is a majestic tree, famous for its umbrella-like branches and large, ornamental cones. Members of the Mapuche people, indigenous to the area, harvest its seeds for food and consider it a symbolic gift of their god, Ngenechén.
Moriche Palm (Mauritia flexuosa)
Region of origin: Amazon and other tropical areas of South America
The moriche, also called "aguaje", "buriti" or "morete", is a tall, slender palm that flowers and bears fruit throughout the year. These native South American plants are a vital resource for Amazonian communities, who use their fruits to obtain oil and build houses.
Ceibo (Ceiba pentandra)
Region of origin: Widely distributed in Latin America.
The ceibo, also called "pochote" or "huimba" is a giant tree with roots that protrude like castle buttresses. It is cultivated in plantations to obtain fiber and oil, but it is also used ornamentally, in reforestation and carpentry. It is considered a sacred tree by many indigenous cultures and symbolizes the connection between heaven, earth and the underworld.
If you ever wanted your own forest, take some notes. No forests in the world like Latin American ones!
Latin American Fruits and Vegetables
Ready to munch on something tasty?
Cacao (Theobroma cacao)
Region of origin: Central and South America
Cacao is the base ingredient of chocolate and has deep roots in the pre-Columbian history of Latin America, having played an essential role in the ancient civilizations of Latin America, such as the Maya and the Aztecs. These cultures valued cocoa so highly that they used it as currency and in religious ceremonies. They prepared bitter drinks with cocoa, often flavored with chili peppers and spices. After the arrival of the European colonizers, the idea of mixing cocoa with sugar and milk was introduced to create chocolate as we know it today.
Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera)
Region of origin: Tropical America (exact origin disputed)
The coconut palm is emblematic of the beaches and coasts of Latin America. Its leaves are used for housing construction and handicrafts. Its coconuts provide refreshing juice and nutritious pulp, which is also used to make soaps, oils and other products.
Yuca
Region of origin: Brazil
Tubers, those humble yet vital root vegetables, hold a special place in the heart of Latin American cuisine. Picture this: Yuca, unassumingly ranked as the fourth most essential staple food globally, just a whisker away from the iconic trio of corn, rice, and wheat. Talk about making a delicious impact! Known by various names like cassava, manioc, and Brazilian arrowroot, yuca takes the crown as Latin America's ultimate root veggie champ. With its distinct starchy goodness, it's like the smooth operator of the vegetable world, flawlessly stepping in for potatoes in creamy mashes or delivering those.
Sorry to make you hungry!
Other Plants from Latin America
These greenies made it to their own section for a good reason. They are all unique!
Ayahuasca (Banisteriopsis caapi)
Country of origin: Peru
Ayahuasca is a sacred plant used by Amazonian indigenous communities in shamanic ritual ceremonies, with a hallucinogenic and purgative effect.
Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis)
Region of origin: South America (especially Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil).
Yerba mate may seem a very common plant at first glance, but it is one of the most valued plants in the region, since its leaves are used to prepare an infusion called "mate". In South America, "mate" is a traditional beverage with stimulating properties that is drunk even more than tea or coffee.
Huayruro (Ormosia)
Region of origin: Tropical and subtropical America.
Huayruros are trees with red seeds with a black dot covering a third of their surface. These roots also provide habitat for other plants and animals. They are poisonous if ingested.
Water Lily (Victoria amazonica)
Region of origin: Guyana
This aquatic plant is famous for its huge leaves that can reach up to 2.5 meters in diameter. The leaves floating on the surface of the water, which can support up to 40 kg, are the habitat of small animals and fish. The white and pink flowers give off a sweet aroma at night.
We hope you found your favorite!
Gardening is great… But you know what's even better? Being aware of culture, history, and origins of your greenies! Never stop learning.
FAQ
How Many Plant Species Are There in Latin America?
Scientists have found that Latin America has 118,308 known species of plants. Roughly speaking, it is estimated that Latin America has about 30% of the world's plant species, which translates into tens of thousands of different species. However, the biodiversity is so vast and diverse even these numbers may lack, as it is difficult to provide sufficient data on the true number of plant species in the region.
From Which Country in South America Do Most Plants Originate?
While there is no single country from which most plants originate, there are certain South American countries that stand out for their diversity and contribution to the world's flora. Brazil is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world and plays a fundamental role in the biodiversity of South America. The Amazon is said to be the "lungs of the world", as it is an extensive rainforest that is home to countless plant species, is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet and is located mostly in Brazil. Another country known for its rich biodiversity is Colombia. Despite its relatively small size, Colombia has a variety of habitats ranging from tropical rainforests to high mountain páramos, which contribute to its great diversity. While certain countries may appear to be "more plant-populated than others," it should be noted that ecologies in South America are shared and connected between countries. Each nation contributes uniquely to the botanical richness of the region to which it belongs.
