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Scientific research

Cigar Calathea, Cigar plant

Language English

Onglets

Description

This plant grows to 2 to 3 m. Its attractive leaves are 50 to 100 cm long and 25 to 60 cm wide. Its inflorescence consists of several spikes 10 cm long with red-brown bracts and yellow flowers. The fruit is a capsule containing orange seeds.

Reproduction

The species flowers and bears fruit all year long, but reproduces best during the rainy season.

Habitat, distribution

It occurs along the shores in swampy areas and disturbed zones. The plant sometimes also grows in the forest, where trees have fallen and a clearing has formed. It is found from Mexico to South America.

Ecology

Hummingbirds and bees pollinate its flowers.

Uses and effects

Its leaves are used to wrap certain foods for cooking. The roots are sometimes used as a remedy for nausea and diarrhea. The dried leaves are used to produce a useful wax.

Scientific name

Calathea lutea (Aubl.) G.F.W. Meyer

French name

Calathéa jaune, Cachibou, Bijao

Plant form

Herbaceous terrestrial plant

Family

Marantaceae

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