Dorstenia bahiensis: Unusual Tropical Fig Relative with Shield-Shaped Flowers

Botanical Profile

Family: Moraceae (mor-AY-see-ee)
Genus: Dorstenia (dor-STEN-ee-uh)
Species: bahiensis (ba-hee-EN-sis)

Description

Dorstenia bahiensis is a fascinating tropical perennial or subshrub from Brazil, growing 12–18 inches tall with a swollen, caudex-like base. The large, oval, deep green leaves are prominently veined. The extraordinary inflorescences are flat, shield-shaped structures (hypanthodia) 1–2 inches across, greenish-brown with tiny flowers embedded on the upper surface. These "shield flowers" are produced intermittently throughout the warm months.

Cultivation

Requires warm temperatures (above 50°F), bright indirect light or dappled shade, and well-drained, humus-rich soil. Keep evenly moist but not soggy. High humidity preferred. Not frost hardy; grow as a houseplant or in tropical greenhouses. Propagate by seed or stem cuttings.

Botanical Interest

A member of the fig family (Moraceae) but herbaceous rather than woody. The hypanthodium is a specialized inflorescence type also seen in figs (Ficus) but exposed rather than enclosed. A conversation piece for collectors of unusual tropicals and caudiciform plants.