Tappias

Tappias is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the daisy family. The genus was described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. Plants in the genus Tappias are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. They are herbaceous perennials, often growing to a height of 30 to 100 centimeters.

The leaves of Tappias species are usually simple and arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are borne in capitula, which are characteristic of the Asteraceae family. These capitula consist of ray florets and disc florets. The ray florets are typically white or yellow, and the disc florets are usually yellow or reddish-brown. The fruit is an achene, which is a small, dry, indehiscent fruit.

Several species within the Tappias genus have been traditionally used in folk medicine for various ailments. For example, some species have been employed for their anti-inflammatory or wound-healing properties. However, scientific research into these medicinal uses is ongoing and requires further investigation. The ecological role of Tappias species includes providing nectar and pollen for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Some species may also be important components of their native ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity. Further taxonomic and phylogenetic studies are being conducted to refine the classification and understanding of the Tappias genus.