Description

• Rhynchosia is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family (Fabaceae), comprising herbaceous plants, twining vines, and small shrubs.

• The leaves are typically alternate and trifoliate, with three leaflets that vary in shape from oval to lance-shaped.

• The flowers are small, pea-shaped, and usually yellow, although some species have orange or reddish markings. They grow in clusters in the leaf axils or near the ends of stems.

• The fruits are small legume pods, often containing one or two seeds that may be brightly coloured, spotted, or otherwise patterned in some species.

• Several species are adapted to climbing through surrounding vegetation, while others grow as low, sprawling herbs.

Range

• The genus is widely distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the world, with many species occurring in the Americas, Africa, and Asia.

• Several species are native to Mexico, including the region of Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• Species grow in tropical dry forests, scrub, grasslands, woodland margins, and disturbed habitats.

• Many favour sunny or partially shaded sites with well-drained soils and tolerate seasonal dry periods.

• Climbing species often grow among grasses, shrubs, and other vegetation, using surrounding plants for support.