frutífera

Frutífera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to South America. The genus is characterized by its diverse range of species, which include both annual and perennial herbs, as well as shrubs. Frutífera species are known for their attractive flowers, which often exhibit a range of colors and shapes, and are typically arranged in disk-like formations at the center of the plant.

The genus was first described by the German botanist Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius in 1840. It is named after the Latin word "frutex," meaning "shrub," reflecting the shrubby nature of many species within the genus. Frutífera species are often used in landscaping and gardening due to their ornamental value and ability to thrive in a variety of soil and climate conditions.

The taxonomy of the genus has undergone several revisions over the years, with some species being reclassified or moved to other genera. However, the genus remains a significant and well-studied group within the Asteraceae family. Frutífera species are also of interest to botanists and ecologists due to their ecological roles and potential for conservation.