Vernonia unicata
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Vernonia unicata faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and habitat conversion in its native range. Deforestation for crop cultivation and livestock grazing has fragmented its natural woodland habitats, while collection for traditional medicinal uses has reduced wild populations in accessible areas. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns affecting the seasonal flowering cycles this species depends upon.
Habitat
Vernonia unicata inhabits tropical and subtropical woodland margins, grassland edges, and disturbed forest clearings at elevations between 800-2000 meters. The species typically grows in well-drained soils with partial shade, often found along forest boundaries where it benefits from both canopy protection and adequate sunlight.