Cantinoa mutabilis (Rich.) Harley & J.F.B.Pastore

Classification and Growth Form

Cantinoa mutabilis is an aromatic herb or subshrub belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Like other Lamiaceae species, it has opposite leaves and square stems.

Flower Characteristics

Its flowers are bilaterally symmetrical, grow in axillary clusters, and have a tubular corolla that is adapted for insect pollination.

Taxonomic Identification Characters

Modern taxonomic treatments emphasize features of the inflorescence, calyx, and corolla as the key morphological characters used to distinguish this species from closely related taxa.

Native Distribution

This species is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, covering parts of Central America, the Caribbean, and South America.

Native Habitat

It can grow in a wide variety of habitats, most commonly in open or disturbed sites, forest margins, and seasonally dry environments.

Introduced Range

It has been recorded as an introduced species in some areas outside its main native range.