Oncocalyx quinquenervius

Oncocalyx quinquenervius is a parasitic plant species in the family Loranthaceae native to South Africa.[1] It is also known as banded matchflower.

Oncocalyx quinquenervius
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Order: Santalales
Family: Loranthaceae
Genus: Oncocalyx
Species:
O. quinquenervius
Binomial name
Oncocalyx quinquenervius
(Hochst.) Wiens & Polhill

Description

Oncocalyx quinquenervius is a hemiparasite.[2]

Morphology

The flowers are tubular, splitting down one side and have red to pink and white bands. Mainly flowering from June to September (in the southern hemisphere). The leaves are green, succulent and simple in shape, elliptic with margin entire. Usually 5 veined from the leaf base. It grows to a height of 50 cm to 100 cm. The fruit is a red berry about 10mm in diameter.

Taxonomy

This species was previously placed in the genus Tieghemia.[3]

Distribution and habitat

Oncocalyx quinquenervius is endemic to the Eastern Cape and KwaZuluNatal in South Africa.[2]

Ecology

A stem parasite on trees.

Conservation

The plant is listed as Least Concern in the SANBI Redlist.[4]

References
  1. "Plants of Southern Africa". Plants of Southern Africa. SANBI.
  2. "African Plant Database". African Plant Database.
  3. "Plants of Southern Africa". Plants of Southern Africa. SANBI.
  4. "Threatened Species Program". Red List of South African Plants.


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