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Matalea parvifolia – Spearleaf

 

Names

Scientific Name: Matalea Parvifolia

Synonym: Gonolobus parvifolius, Vincetoxicum parvifolium

Common Names: Spearleaf, talayote

Characteristics

Duration: Perennial

Growth Habit: Shrub/vine

Arizona Native Status: Native

Habitat: Desert scrub, mountains, and canyons, 2,000 to 5,000 feet

Flower Color: Purple to brown

Flowering Season: March to October

Height: vining

Description: Spearleaf is an inconspicuous, vining plant that will climb upon a wide variety of hosts. The leaves are heart-shaped and lightly hairy, about ½ inch in length. The plant has a woody base and milky sap.

Special Characteristics

N/A

Classification

Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae

SOURCES:

Southwest Environmental Information Network Website: swbiodiversity.org/seinet/taxa/index.php?taxon=3794

Inaturalist Website: inaturalist.org/taxa/77964-Matelea-parvifolia

Kearney, T. H. and R. H. Peebles. 1960. Arizona Flora. Los Angeles: University of California Press.

 

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