Hofmannia

Hofmannia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the daisy or sunflower family. The genus is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. Plants in the genus Hofmannia are typically herbaceous perennials, though some species can be shrubs. They are characterized by their composite flower heads, which consist of many small florets arranged in a ray and disk pattern. The leaves are usually simple and arranged alternately on the stem.

Species within Hofmannia are diverse in their appearance and habitat. Some species are found in rainforests, while others prefer drier open areas. The exact number of species recognized within the genus can vary depending on taxonomic interpretation. Their flowers are often brightly colored, ranging from yellow to orange and sometimes red, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. The fruits are achenes, a common characteristic of the Asteraceae family.

The genus was described by Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius in 1832. Its taxonomic placement has been subject to revision over time, with some species previously assigned to Hofmannia now being placed in other related genera. Research into the phylogenetic relationships of Hofmannia continues to refine our understanding of its evolutionary history and its place within the broader Asteraceae family. No significant commercial uses are widely documented for plants in this genus, and they are primarily of interest for their botanical characteristics and ecological roles in their native environments.