Primulina modesta is a plant in the family Gesneriaceae, native to Vietnam. It was formerly placed in the genus Chirita.[1]

Primulina modesta
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Lamiales
Family: Gesneriaceae
Genus: Primulina
Species:
P. modesta
Binomial name
Primulina modesta
Synonyms[2]
  • Chirita modesta Kiew & T.H.Nguyên

Description

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Primulina modesta grows as a perennial herb. The leaves are dark green above, pale beneath and measure up to 3 cm (1 in) long. The inflorescences bear up to 16 white flowers and measure up to 11 cm (4 in) long.[3]

Distribution and habitat

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Primulina modesta is endemic to Vietnam, where it is confined to Tam Cung Cave, on an island in Hạ Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its habitat is in shaded crevices on the vertical cliffs near the mouth of the cave.[3]

Conservation

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Primulina modesta has been assessed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List. The species is confined to a small area and the population has been estimated at fewer than 50 plants.[1]

References

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  1. ^ a b c Nguyen, T.H. (2012). "Primulina modesta". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2012: e.T201825A2720974. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2012.RLTS.T201825A2720974.en. Retrieved 20 November 2021.
  2. ^ a b "Primulina modesta". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 12 July 2021.
  3. ^ a b Nguyen, Tien Hiep; Kiew, R. (2000). "New and interesting plants from Ha Long Bay, Vietnam" (PDF). Gardens' Bulletin Singapore. 52 (1). National Parks Board, Singapore Botanic Gardens: 194–195. Retrieved 12 July 2021.