Icacinaceae Miers 1851
The Icacinaceae is a heterogeneous family from the Order Celastrales, of around 55 genera and 400 species of tropical dicotyledenous flowering shrubs, trees and climbing vines. Leaves are usually alternate and simple and of a tough, leathery nature with marked venation. Tendrils are present in a few species. The small regular, bisexual flowers with 3 - 6 fold symmetry, are produced in clusters and are white or greenish-white. Fruits are typically drupes or in a few species samaras.
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Pyrenacantha Hooker 1830The genus Pyrenacantha (Synonym: Trematosperma) includes succulent species that can produce very large caudexes with vining top growths. As with other caudiciforms, the watering regime should be sensitive to growth and dormant phases. The soil should be very gritty and free-draining with as much sunlight as possible. |
Pyrenacantha malvifolia Engler 1893 Syn. Trematosperma cordatum Urban 1883 (Monkey Chair) |
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In its habitat of hot, dry hillsides it may scramble through shrubs and into branches of trees. In cultivation, supports are needed to keep the extensive growth under control. This tender species originates in East Africa (Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia and Tanzania). |
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