CR

Hyptis diversifolia

Unknown

Overview

Mesosphaerum diversifolium is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae, formerly known as Hyptis diversifolia. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests only in Ecuador.

Hyptis diversifolia faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, with remaining populations fragmented and isolated. Invasive plant species compete directly with this native herb, further reducing available habitat and resources.

Threat summary

Habitat

Hyptis diversifolia typically inhabits tropical and subtropical dry forests, woodland edges, and disturbed areas with well-drained soils. The species shows preference for partially shaded environments and can occasionally be found in secondary growth areas recovering from disturbance.

Other threatened species in LAMIACEAE

VU

Hyptidendron claussenii

Declining
EN

Isodon atroruber

Unknown
EN

Vitex bracteata

Increasing
EN

Vitex grandidiana

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Hyptis diversifolia classified as Critically Endangered?
Hyptis diversifolia is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Hyptis diversifolia faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, with remaining populations fragmented and isolated. Invasive plant species compete directly with this native herb, further reducing available habitat and resources.
Where does Hyptis diversifolia live?
Hyptis diversifolia occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Hyptis diversifolia?
The main threats to Hyptis diversifolia are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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