Sesamum

Linnaeus

Sp. Pl. 2: 634. 1753.

Introduced
Etymology: Greek sésamon (Arabic simsim), literally meaning plant oil
Treatment appears in FNA Volume 17. Treatment on page 361.

Annuals not foul smelling. Stems erect [prostrate], hairy [glabrous], hairs glandular and eglandular. Leaves opposite proximally, opposite or alternate distally. Inflorescences axillary, flowers solitary. Pedicels often with paired nectaries at base; bracteoles present or absent. Flowers: calyx tubular or cupulate, lobes linear to narrowly triangular; corolla white to pale pink or pale purple, often with darker veins proximally; staminode 1, filiform; style base persistent. Capsules not flattened, style base enlarged, forming a persistent beak, lateral horns absent. Seeds [10]40–60[–80], white, brown, or black, ovoid [obovoid], wings absent or present. x = 16.

Distribution

Introduced; Asia, Africa, tropical areas, introduced also in South America, Europe, elsewhere in Asia, n Africa, Pacific Islands, Australia.

Discussion

Species 21 (1 in the flora).

Lower Taxa

... more about "Sesamum"
Kerry A. Barringer +
Linnaeus +
Asia +, Africa +, tropical areas +, introduced also in South America +, Europe +, elsewhere in Asia +, n Africa +, Pacific Islands +  and Australia. +
Greek sésamon (Arabic simsim), literally meaning plant oil +
bedigian2011a +  and ihlenfeldt1979a +
Introduced +
Sesamum +
Pedaliaceae +