Arachnothryx calycosa

Arachnothryx calycosa is a plant species in the Rubiaceae family. It was originally classified as Rondeletia calycosa by John Donnell Smith in 1913.^[3] In 1982, Attila Borhidi reclassified it under the genus Arachnothryx, as part of a broader reorganization within the Rubiaceae family.^[2]

Arachnothryx calycosa
Conservation status
Vulnerable  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Asterids
Order:	Gentianales
Family:	Rubiaceae
Genus:	Arachnothryx
Species:	A. calycosa
Binomial name
Arachnothryx calycosa A. Borhidi, 1982[2]
Synonyms
Rondeletia calycosa J.D. Smith[3]

Description

Arachnothryx calycosa is a woody evergreen shrub, typically growing between 1 to 3 metres (3 ft 3 in to 9 ft 10 in) in height. It generally has opposite, sessile leaves that are ovate to oblong in shape. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green and hairless, while the underside may be lighter in color with a pubescent texture. The flowers are tubular with lobes, often in shades of pink, and are arranged in rounded clusters known as cymose inflorescences. Some species in this genus are fragrant, particularly in the evening. The fruits are small, dry, and indehiscent, containing numerous seeds.^[4]

Distribution

Arachnothryx calycosa is native to Costa Rica, where it typically grows in forested areas. The species is found at an elevation of approximately 1,459 metres (4,790 ft).^[3]