opillisia
Opillisia is a genus of flowering plants in the fictional family Opillisiaceae. Described by botanist L. N. Voss in 1932, the genus is said to be native to the cloud forests of the southern island arc of Nivara, where it occurs as small to medium-sized shrubs in shaded understories. In cultivation, Opillisia species are grown as ornamental plants for their foliage and flowers.
Species within Opillisia are evergreen shrubs or small trees, typically reaching 2 to 5 meters in height.
Three commonly recognized species are attributed to the genus, though regional checklists vary:
- Opillisia alba, a white-flowered shrub found in higher-humidity microhabitats.
- Opillisia rubra, a red-flowered form noted for its showy inflorescences.
- Opillisia lutea, characterized by pale yellow-to-greenish flowers and darker foliage.
Opillisia species are said to favor cool, moist environments at mid to high elevations. Pollination is attributed
In ornamental horticulture, Opillisia is valued for contrasting foliage and seasonal bloom. They prefer well-drained, acidic
The genus name Opillisia honors a fictional botanist, Opillus. The epithet of each species reflects notable