Distribution and habitat

''Mucuna paniculata'' is found at elevations between sea level to in northern Madagascar. These vines can be found in both humid and sub-humid forests, usually near rivers and streams.

Toxicity

Species in the genus '' Mucuna'' are known to carry irritant hairs. These hairs contain mucunain, an enzyme which causes itching. This enzyme can be destroyed using heat.

Cultivation

This plant usually grows well in well-drained soil under shade. They are propagated with seeds.

Conservation

It is listed as ' least concern' by the

IUCN The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN; officially International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) is an international organization working in the field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natu ...

Threats

Habitat destruction by slash-and-burn techniques pose a potential threat to the species.

Protected areas

The species is found in the

protected area Protected areas or conservation areas are locations which receive protection because of their recognized natural, ecological or cultural values. There are several kinds of protected areas, which vary by level of protection depending on the ena ...

s of the Betampona Integral Natural Reserve,

Manongarivo Special Reserve Manongarivo Reserve is a wildlife reserve in the North-West of Madagascar in the region of Diana. Manongarivo is home to both the Sambirano mouse lemur and the Sambirano woolly lemur. Geography The reserve has a surface of 64,356 ha and is sit ...

, Marojejy National Park, Masoala National Park and Montagne d'Ambre National Park.

References

{{Taxonbar, from=Q15475182

paniculata A panicle is a much-branched inflorescence. (softcover ). Some authors distinguish it from a compound spike inflorescence, by requiring that the flowers (and fruit) be pedicellate (having a single stem per flower). The branches of a panicle are of ...

Endemic flora of Madagascar Flora of the Madagascar subhumid forests