Leaf-Flower

Phyllanthus sp.

Phyllanthus in Kenya, photo © by Michael Plagens

Observed in partial shade of secondary growth woods, Kakamega Forest, Kenya. Dec. 2014.

Similar Species (thumb-links):

Phyllanthus sp. photo by Michael Plagens  Phyllanthus sp. photo by Michael Plagens

PERENNIAL: Mostly herbaceous with very slender horizonatal branches which resemble compound leaves. Plant less than 50 cm tall.

FLOWERS: Small white flowers which are on the undersides of the horizontal branchlets. This image shows developing, unopened flowers.

LEAVES: Leaves are numerous, ovoid, and closely spaced along the horizontal branchlets. There are also minute scale-like leaves along the same branches.

RANGE: This species was observed in sunny, secondary forest undergrowth at Kakamega Forest in western Kenya. This is lowland tropical rainforest.

FRUIT: The seeds are contained in small, three-parted capsules.

UNARMED. Without thorns.

Phyllanthaceae -recently moved from Euphorbiaceae -- Spurge Family

More Information:


Kenya Natural History

Copyright Michael J. Plagens, Created on 4 Feb. 2015,
updated 16 July 2015.