Martin Pellizzer

Palicourea Celiae

Celia's palicourea, scientifically known as Palicourea celiae, is a rare and striking plant native to the cloud forests of Ecuador. This unique species belongs to the Rubiaceae family, which includes over 13,000 species of flowering plants. Its most distinguishing feature is its vibrant, waxy leaves that shimmer with a metallic sheen under sunlight. The plant was named in honor of Celia, a botanist who contributed significantly to the study of South American flora. Due to its limited habitat and endangered status, Palicourea celiae is a subject of growing interest among conservationists and plant enthusiasts alike.