Black Torch

Melochia tomentosa is distributed across several regions, including Colombia, Brazil, Aruba, the Bahamas, Belize, Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Florida, French Guiana, and Guatemala. The taxonomic history of this species includes discussions regarding its lectotype designation. While a potential lectotype was proposed by Fryxell in 2001, the designation was not effective due to the absence of the required wording under the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (Art. 7.11). Earlier, Goldberg (1967) noted the existence of two specimens at LINN but did not designate a type. The species remains classified under the genus Melochia, with its scientific name remaining valid as per the earliest publication in 1759.