On Genus Amorphophallus Blume ex Decne (Araceae) in Cuba

Abstract

Context: The presence in several Cuban cities of Amorphophallus Blume ex Decne (Araceae), which has been poorly and unelaborately published in the scientific literature, encouraged researchers to conduct a systematic, phytogeographic, and ethnobotanical study of this plant. Aim: To unveil the nomenclature, taxonomy, phenotypical characterization, differences from akin taxons, distribution, and usefulness of specimens of Amorphophallus Blume ex Decne, currently cultivated in Cuba outside scientific collections.  Methods: Specimens kept in gardens of the city of Camagüey were studied using methods such as collection work, descriptor and key comparisons, and scientific description and illustration.  Results: The presence in Cuba of genus Amorphophallus Blume ex Decne was confirmed, proving that it is related to other three species: A. paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson, A. konjac K. Koch, and A. titanum (Becc.) Becc. ex Arcang. The determination of the nomenclature was determined more accurately; the genus and other two species were described. Besides, the analytical key was adjusted to contrast the different Araceae genuses present in the country; another key was presented to contrast the two species described. Aspects related to their usefulness (corroborated or potential) were discussed from different perspectives: food and medicinal properties, and as a nutritional enhacer of soil. Conclusions: Amorphophallus Blume ex Decne, denoted at least as A. paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson and A. konjac K. Koch, given their frequent cultivation as ornamental plants in Cuba, which from now on must be included in the specialized catalogs and publications related to the flora of the country. The potentialities for sustainable management of species were identified