Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Camagüey Ignacio Agramonte Loynaz
Doi
Abstract
Context: The presence of a non-identified taxon, which has the general characteristics of family Araceae, in cultivation found in Camagüey province, calls for the need to specify some of its taxonomical and cultural aspects.
Aim: to reveal the nomenclature, taxonomical position, and taxon description, as well as its singularities and corroborated and potential usefulness within family Araceae are discussed.
Methods: Specimens observed in Camagüey city gardens were studied, using botanical methods of research, such as collecting, catalogue and key use, and description and scientific illustrations.
Results: The nomenclature of the plant was determined, the taxon was described, and an analytical key was suggested for contrasting this species from the other Cuban araceae. Aspects related to its corroborated usefulness for air purification, and its potential significance in medicine and nutrition, were discussed.
Conclusions: Zamioculcas zamiifolia (Lodd.) Engl., will hereupon be considered in catalogs and specialized publications on Cuban flora. The potential of Z. zamiifolia, for improvements of air quality, and the antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of the plant, offer an interesting perspective for further management of this phytogenetic resource, which deserves to be studied in the Cuban context
