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1 October 2012 History, Biology, and Conservation of Pacific Endemics. 1. The Royal Creeper, Oxera pulchella (Lamiaceae), a New Caledonian Ornamental Plant
Gildas Gâteblé
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Abstract

A thorough review of Oxera pulchella Labill., also called the “royal creeper,” was carried out to better understand the amazing story of this almost forgotten New Caledonian ornamental species. The history of this plant is interestingly related to the history of New Caledonia. The literature record's analysis shows that taxonomic placement of the genus Oxera Labill. has been widely discussed from its discovery until very recently. This review also offers the opportunity to understand and hypothetize how Oxera pulchella was exported and disseminated worldwide through botanical gardens and private nurseries at the end of the nineteenth century. Along with a review of Oxera pulchella's etymology, vernacular names, iconography, and horticultural fame, this review considers its current taxonomy, horticultural importance, conservation, biology, and various economic issues with a perspective from our ongoing research on this genus of special ornamental potential.

© 2012 by University of Hawai'i Press
Gildas Gâteblé "History, Biology, and Conservation of Pacific Endemics. 1. The Royal Creeper, Oxera pulchella (Lamiaceae), a New Caledonian Ornamental Plant," Pacific Science 66(4), 413-433, (1 October 2012). https://doi.org/10.2984/66.4.1
Accepted: 1 December 2011; Published: 1 October 2012
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