In the most remote corners of the rainforest we can find a botanical species that has always intrigued biologists and nature enthusiasts. Its about monkey brush vine, a vine that arouses interest both for its unique beauty and for the impact it causes on the ecosystems in which it is established.
Have you heard of her? This Amazonian plant may not be one of the best known outside its region of origin, but it is so particular that it is worth learning a little more about this variety.
Origin and habitat of the brush vine monkey
This is a species native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, although it is believed that it originally emerged in the Central region. In the wild we can see it in Mexico, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Brazil.
Its natural habitat is made up of humid lowland tropical forests. Where temperatures are warm and there is great humidity in the environment. Although this is a variety that likes heat, prefers to develop in shady environments, so it grows more easily in the lower strata of forests.
However, it has a great capacity to colonize new territories and is quite resistant, so it is not strange to see it outside its natural habitat. So much so, that in some regions it is considered an invasive species, because it has the capacity to put local ecosystems at risk.
Physical characteristics of the brush vine monkey
This is a plant that is difficult to confuse with others, because it has physical characteristics that make it unique and easily distinguishable:
Leaves
The leaves of the monkey brush vine are large and shiny, with a shape that can be from oval to lanceolate, and that has serrated edges.
They are leaves that can reach up to 30 centimeters long. Between their size and their bright tone, it is difficult for them to go unnoticed.
Texture
The leaves of this plant They are also distinguished by having a velvety texture on the upper part. In some cases, you can see the presence of prominent “veins” that run across the entire surface of the leaf.
growth habit
Like a creeper it is, the brush vine monkey has a climbing growth habit. This affects the morphology of its stems, which are thin and flexible, so they can wrap around tree trunks and other nearby structures.
This form of growth allows the brush vine monkey to reach sunlight, even if it grows among large trees.
Flowers
This plant produces clusters of flowers that are small in size and whose color can range from white to pale pink.
Its flowering is quite numerous and exerts a strong power of attraction on pollinators such as bees or butterflies, something that benefits both the vine itself and the plants and trees around it.
Fruits
After flowering, the plant produces small, round fruits with a color between dark purple and black.
Its fruits are edible for some species of birds and mammals, which facilitates the dispersal of seeds and contributes to the propagation of the plant.
Is it a parasitic flower?
A parasitic flower or plant is one that is totally dependent on other plants for water and nutrients. Some varieties even need other plants to carry out photosynthesis.
In the case of the brush vine mono, we are not facing a parasitic plant, because it places its roots on the ground and that is where it obtains water and nutrients. Another thing is that, due to its climbing growth, it “fuses” with other species.
It is not parasitic, but it is invasive. This is a plant that has very fast growth and good adaptability, and is capable of forming very dense bushes. Therefore, once installed outside its habitat, It is capable of competing with native species to obtain water, light and nutrients. Something that can have a negative impact on local biodiversity and negatively affect ecosystems.
Is it possible to plant monkey brush vine outside its habitat?
It is possible, but not recommended. We are talking about a plant of Amazonian origin that requires specific conditions of humidity and warm climate to develop well, but which turns out to be very adaptable.
As it is considered an invasive species, it is not recommended to grow it outside of controlled environments, because it can be difficult to keep it under control, and We have already seen that it poses a risk to the ecosystem.
When there is a mono brush vine in the surroundings, the ideal is to monitor the plant to control its spread as much as possible., doing the pruning that is necessary. Although in some cases it may be better to opt for its total elimination.
- Manual removal. To carry it out, the vines must be cut and removed from the base of the host plants or the affected area. It is essential to eliminate all parts of the plant, or it will sprout again.
- Selective herbicides. There are herbicides that have been specifically formulated to kill mono brush vine. In these cases, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the plants around the target.
Once the brush vine monkey has been completely eliminated, the habitat must be restored so that the native species can develop normally again. This may involve enriching the soil with organic matter and planting native plants.
Although plants are living beings of spectacular beauty and fulfill an invaluable function in the ecosystem, not all of them are suitable to be everywhere. Varieties such as mono brush vine are very invasive and can affect local species. Therefore, it is better that they continue to grow wild in their natural habitat and not spread beyond it. An exotic plant is like an exotic animal, it may be beautiful, but it must be kept in its place of origin because, outside of it, it can pose a risk to other species.