31 – Colletia paradoxa

Scientific name

Colletia paradoxa (Spreng.) Escal.

Common name

Anchor plant

Family

Rhamnaceae

Origin

Central America

Year planted

1974

Flowering

September – October

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Anchor plant

Description

It is a shrub with many thorns and branches. It can grow up to 3 metres high.

The leaves are very small, and it has two types of thorns: some are wider, in the shape of a cross or anchor, and the others are more narrow.

The flowers are white and have no petals. They come together in groups of 6 and have a scent reminiscent of almonds.

Marimurtra’s specimens

You will find 2 specimens in the Chile bush area, next to the cliff path, which mark the entrance to the stairs. The largest is over 2 metres high.

Did you know that…?

This shrub is widely used as a natural fence and its flowers are used to make honey. It photosynthesises from the stem, so the leaves are very small.

Threat level (UICN)

Main uses

Raunkiaer Life Forms