janthina

Janthina is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae, native to the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. The genus is characterized by its small, often epiphytic or lithophytic herbs, with simple, entire leaves and small, usually white or pinkish flowers arranged in axillary or terminal cymes. The flowers are typically zygomorphic, with a superior ovary and a bilabiate corolla.

Janthina species are known for their unique floral morphology, with the upper lip of the corolla often fused to form a hood-like structure that encloses the lower lip. This adaptation is thought to facilitate pollination by bees, which are attracted to the nectar produced by the flowers.

The genus Janthina includes approximately 20 species, with the most well-known being Janthina glabra, a popular ornamental plant in many parts of the world. Janthina species are often cultivated for their attractive flowers and are used in landscaping and as houseplants.

Despite their ornamental value, Janthina species are not well-studied, and much remains unknown about their biology, ecology, and conservation status. However, their unique floral morphology and ecological adaptations make them an interesting subject for further research.