Costa Rica Species
PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.ApprovedCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting

Weinmannia pinnata

Pinnate Weinmannia

L., 1759

Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A distinctive evergreen shrub or medium-sized tree characterized by its imparipinnate leaves with a conspicuously winged rachis. It features small, white to pinkish flowers densely clustered in attractive, brush-like racemes.

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Anonymous Curator

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Under Review

Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.

LlorónLoritoGarrochoBastardoPrickly ashBois tan

TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.

PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Oxalidales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Cunoniaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Weinmannia
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.L., 1759
Record Completeness
93%
Coming soon

Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.

OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.

Native

Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.

Stable

Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.

Herbivore

Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.

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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.

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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.

Year Round

Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.

Yes

Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang

Native to montane cloud forests, elfin woodlands, and humid highlands. It thrives in high-altitude environments with constant moisture, frequent fog, and well-drained, acidic or organic soils.

Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang

Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!

BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang

A key structural tree of the upper canopy or understory depending on altitude. It is heavily actively involved in watershed regulation, as its branches and epiphytes intercept moisture from passing clouds and funnel it into the ground.

Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang

Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!

Physical Measures

Length (cm)

200.0 - 1500.0 cm

Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.

Flower Photos (Max 2)

No image

Fruit Photos (Max 2)

No image

Evolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang

The winged rachis and coriaceous (leathery) leaves are adapted to tolerate high solar radiation and intense winds typical of exposed mountain ridges.
Formulates tight root symbiotic associations with mycorrhizal fungi to maximize nutrient absorption from thin, nutrient-poor montane soils.

Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang

Climate change poses a severe risk as rising temperatures and shifting cloud lines can dry out the fragile montane cloud forest ecosystems it depends on.
Habitat fragmentation caused by agricultural expansion, cattle ranching, and mountain road construction.

Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang

It functions as an ecological pioneer species, frequently colonizing landslides, disturbed volcanic soils, and forest clearings, helping to stabilize the terrain.