Justicia Cardinalis
| Scientific name | Mayan name | Español | English |
|---|---|---|---|
| Justicia cardinalis | Chak-tzitz | Justicia Roja | Yucatan Red Justicia |
Justicia cardinalis is a newly described (2024) species of flowering plant in the Acanthaceae family, endemic to seasonally dry forests in the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula. It is characterized by red flowers with white markings on the lower lip, linear to narrow floral bracts, and is found in rocky, calcareous soils.
Justicia cardinalis produces deep red, tubular flowers. Red is a color that hummingbirds see vividly but many insects do not. The tubular shape specifically excludes most bees and butterflies, ensuring that the nectar is reserved for a long-billed specialist. The Mexican Sheartail has a long, noticeably decurved (down-turned) bill that matches the curve and depth of the J. cardinalis blossom. While other hummingbirds like the Canivet’s Emerald may visit the plant, the Sheartail is the most frequent and efficient feeder in that specific dry coastal niche.
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