Cape bogbean
Villarsia capensis (Houtt.) Merr.
Villarsia capensis is a species in the Menyanthaceae family, commonly known as Cape bogbean. It was first described in 1938 and belongs to the genus Villarsia. This plant is native to the Afrotropical region, with a more specific distribution in the Cape Provinces. Its global presence indicates it has been introduced or cultivated beyond its native range.
Description
Villarsia capensis is a member of the Menyanthaceae family, a group of flowering plants that includes aquatic and semi-aquatic species. Known as Cape bogbean in English, it is part of the genus Villarsia, which is characterized by specific morphological traits typical of the family. The species is native to the Afrotropical region, particularly the Cape Provinces, and has since spread to other parts of the world. Its distribution reflects both its natural range and human-assisted dispersal. The plant was first formally described in 1938 by the author (Houtt.) Merr. Villarsia capensis is recognized for its ecological presence in wetland habitats and is notable for its adaptation to moist environments.
Other common names
Cape bogbean
Distribution
Afrotropical · Global · Cape Provinces
Synonyms
Renealmia capensisRenealmia ovataMenyanthes capensisVillarsia ovataMenyanthes ovata
