Search results
Mandragora is a plant genus belonging to the nightshade family ( Solanaceae ). Members of the genus are known as mandrakes. Between three and five species are placed in the genus. The one or two species found around the Mediterranean constitute the mandrake of ancient writers such as Dioscorides.
mandrake, (genus Mandragora), genus of six species of hallucinogenic plants in the nightshade family native to the Mediterranean region and the Himalayas.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Mandragora officinarum is the type species of the plant genus Mandragora in the nightshade family Solanaceae. It is often known as mandrake, although this name is also used for other plants. As of 2015, sources differed significantly in the species they use for Mandragora plants native to the Mediterranean region.
The mandrake is a perennial herb with thick, often forked, roots which may resemble the legs of the human body. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and to the genus Mandragora, which includes three species native to the Mediterranean basin and Central Asia.
The best-known species, Mandragora officinarum, has long been known for its poisonous properties. In ancient times it was used as a narcotic and an aphrodisiac, and it was also believed to have certain magical powers.
Mandragora officinarum L. Mandragora officinarum. First published in Sp. Pl.: 181 (1753) This species is accepted. The native range of this species is N. Italy to NW. Balkan Peninsula. It is a perennial and grows primarily in the temperate biome. Taxonomy.
Genus. Mandragora are perennials with fleshy taproots producing large rosettes of leaves and stemless, bell-shaped flowers followed by fleshy fruits. Name status. Correct. Plant range S Europe
