Pinks, Cactuses and Allies of Zihuatanejo

Petiveria is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family. It is found in tropical and subtropical areas, and is native to Central and South America. It has a wide range of uses, from medicinal to ornamental. Petiveria has small, fragrant white flowers and leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed. Its habitat is generally in wet, marshy areas.

Description

Petiveria alliacea, commonly known as guinea hen weed, garlic weed, or anamu, is a perennial herbaceous plant or small subshrub in the pokeweed family (Petiveriaceae).
It has slender, branching stems and alternate, simple, elliptic to lance-shaped leaves with pointed tips.
Small greenish-white flowers grow along slender, elongated spikes. The fruits are small, narrow, and bear hooked bristles that help them attach to animals and clothing.
The plant has a strong garlic-like odour, especially when its leaves or roots are crushed.

Range

Native to tropical regions of the Americas, including Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America.
It is native to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

Grows in tropical dry forests, woodland edges, thickets, roadsides, gardens, and disturbed areas.
Favours warm climates and well-drained soils, growing in both sunny and partially shaded locations.
Often occurs in disturbed vegetation and along forest margins, where it can persist through seasonal dry periods.