Plantorna

Plantorna is a small, monotypic genus of flowering plants described from the Valorian Highlands. It comprises a single species, Plantorna luminosa, endemic to montane cloud forests.

It was first described by botanist Elara Mendez in 1894, based on herbarium specimens collected during an expedition to the Valorian Highlands. The genus name Plantorna derives from Latin roots meaning ornamental plant, while luminosa refers to the plant's shimmering flowers.

Plantorna luminosa is an evergreen shrub 0.8–1.5 m tall. Leaves are opposite, simple, elliptic, 3–6 cm long, glossy green. Flowers are small, star-shaped, white with a pale yellow center, arranged in loose racemes; flowering occurs mainly in spring and early summer. Fruit is a dry capsule containing several seeds.

Endemic to montane cloud forests at 1200–2100 m altitude in the Valorian region, it prefers shaded, humid sites and well-draining soils rich in organic matter.

Pollination is by bees; seeds are dispersed by gravity and small mammals. The species forms mycorrhizal associations. In horticulture, it is grown as an ornamental plant, valued for its evergreen foliage and delicate flowers; it requires partial shade and consistent moisture and is not frost-hardy.

Conservation status is Least Concern due to stable populations and the absence of major threats. Protected areas cover much of its range.