THE BIGNONIACEAE JUSS. FAMILY (IPES) IN THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LAVRAS, MINAS GERAIS

Abstract

The Bignoniaceae family has 120 genera and 800 species with pantropical distribution, occurring mainly in the neotropics. About 32 genera and 350 species occur in Brazil, which is considered the center of diversity of the family. In Minas Gerais, some surveys indicate the occurrence of species such as Dolichandra unguis-cati, Fridericia speciosa and Handroanthus chrysotrichus. Lavras studies show 58 species. The municipality is located in a transition zone between savanna and semideciduous forest, with rugged terrain, which promotes a diversity of vegetation physiognomy. The objective was to catalog the species of native and exotic Bignoniaceae of Lavras, Minas Gerais, besides the elaboration of an identification key for them. Data were collected from all herbarium specimens with record collection in the city incorporated in the Herbarium ESAL; species cited in phytosociological studies of the county and registration of ornamental species found in parks, gardens and nurseries of the city were also raised. The specimens were identified in situ, by comparisons, consultations with specialists and specialized taxonomic literature. Fifty eight species (51 native and seven exotic) were found, distributed in 21 genera, of which Jacaranda (10 species) was the most common, followed by Fridericia (8 species) and Handroanthus (7 species). Among the ornamental species stood out Handroanthus impetiginosus (Purpleipe) and Handroanthus serratifolius (Yellow-ipe). The number of species was superior to other localities, the largest similarity observed was with species of Itacolomi State Park, Minas Gerais.