profusus

Profusus is a fictional genus of flowering plants created for worldbuilding and speculative biology. In the imagined universe, it belongs to the family Profusaceae and is described as endemic to the temperate archipelago of Nova Gaia.

Profusus consists of evergreen shrubs and small trees ranging from 1 to 4 meters tall. Leaves are opposite, oval to lanceolate, with a glossy, leathery texture. The inflorescences are terminal panicles with many small, bright flowers. Flowers measure 6–8 mm in diameter, with a tubular corolla and five lobes, and colors span golden yellow to orange, often with a strong, sweet fragrance. The fruit is a dry capsule containing several tiny seeds.

The genus name derives from Latin profusus, meaning "poured forth" or "profuse," reflecting the abundant floral displays. Profusus is the sole genus in the fictional family Profusaceae, and was first described by fictional botanist Dr. Lumen Mare in the setting's historical timeline.

Species commonly described within Profusus include Profusus auriflorus, Profusus violaceus, and Profusus viridis. Profusus auriflorus has bright gold flowers; Profusus violaceus displays violet blooms; Profusus viridis shows greenish-yellow flowers. All share the same basic morphology but differ in nectar production and leaf habit.

Habitat and ecology: Endemic to coastal and inland scrub habitats on Nova Gaia, Profusus tolerates salt spray and sandy or rocky soils. It is pollinated primarily by native bees and is wind-dispersed via its light capsules.

Uses and cultural significance: In the fictional setting, Profusus is grown as an ornamental plant in coastal gardens and parks, valued for its profuse, scented blooms and drought tolerance.

Notes: Profusus is a product of worldbuilding; it is not recognized by real taxonomic databases.