Xanthosoma paradoxum
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Monocots
Order:	Alismatales
Family:	Araceae
Genus:	Xanthosoma
Species:	X. paradoxum
Binomial name
Xanthosoma paradoxum Bogner (2005)

Xanthosoma paradoxum is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae indigenous to Colombia. ^[1] Initially described as Caladium paradoxum, it was later transferred to the Xanthosoma genus due to its strong affinity with other Xanthosoma species. ^{[2] [3]}

This species is characterized by its disc-like, coherent styles with stigmas as broad as the ovary, pollen in monads, and entire leaf blades. ^[4]

Distribution and habitat

Xanthosoma paradoxum is endemic to Colombia and can be found in various regions, including Orinoquia and the Pacific. ^[5] It grows primarily in the wet tropical biome and is found at elevations ranging from 100 to 1700 meters above sea level. ^{[1] [5]}

Morphology and flowering

Xanthosoma paradoxum is a tuberous geophyte, which means it has an underground storage organ that helps it survive unfavourable conditions. ^[1] The plant is an herb with entire leaf blades. ^[5] Most Xanthosoma species flower contemporaneously with the leaves, but X. paradoxum flowers before the leaves appear, which is more common in the Caladium genus. ^[5]

Taxonomy and classification

Xanthosoma paradoxum was first described in Willdenowia in 2005 by German botanist, Josef Bogner. ^{[1] [4]}

References