Description

• Byttneria aculeata is a prickly climbing shrub or scrambling vine in the mallow family (Malvaceae), formerly classified in the Sterculiaceae. Its stems may bear sharp prickles, and its leaves are typically alternate, broad, and often heart-shaped, with toothed margins. The small flowers grow in clusters and are followed by distinctive dry fruits. Its prickly growth can make it difficult to handle and allows it to scramble through surrounding vegetation.

Range

• Byttneria aculeata is native to tropical America, including Mexico and Central America, extending into parts of South America. It is native to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• This species grows in tropical forests, thickets, woodland edges, and disturbed areas where it can climb or scramble over other plants. It is associated with warm, humid to seasonally dry tropical environments and often grows where sunlight reaches gaps in the vegetation.