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.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Palicourea elata
Hot Lips
(Sw.) Borhidi, 2011
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Understory shrub famous for its deep red bracts that resemble human lips before the small white flowers emerge.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
Labios de MucamaFlor de un beso
Hooker's lipsMick Jagger's lipsTaxonomyBiological 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).Gentianales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Rubiaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Palicourea
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Sw.) Borhidi, 2011
Record Completeness
84%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.
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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
Inhabits the cloud forests and very humid forests of Central and South America, preferring shady and cool areas.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
Perennial plant that uses its striking bracts to attract pollinators, mainly hummingbirds and butterflies.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)
100.0 - 300.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Modified deep red bracts that mimic flowers to maximize visibility in the forest gloom.
Production of metallic blue fruits to attract specialized bird dispersers.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Deforestation and loss of the humid microclimate necessary for its survival.
Illegal harvesting due to its unique appearance and social media popularity.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The 'lips' shape only lasts for a short time, until they open to reveal the actual flowers.
It was previously classified in the genus Psychotria, but recent studies moved it to Palicourea.