Classification
 Subordinate Taxa
 Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Mercurialis L., Sp. Pl. 1035-1036 (1753)
 Description

Herbs or small shrubs, usually dioecious; sap watery. Lvs stipulate, opposite, entire, serrate or crenate. ♂ fls: in clusters on long axillary spikes; perianth segments 3; stamens 8–15. ♀ fls: solitary or in clusters, axillary; perianth segments 3; ovary 2-celled with a single ovule in each cell; styles 2. Fr. a 2-celled capsule separating at maturity from the persistent axis; seed smooth or variously sculptured.

[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]

 Biostatus
Exotic
Number of species in New Zealand within Mercurialis L.
CategoryNumber
Exotic: Fully Naturalised1
Total1
 Bibliography
Linnaeus, C. 1753: Species Plantarum. Impensis Laurentii Salvii, Stockholm.
Mabberley, D.J. 2008: Mabberley's plant book, a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Edition 3. Cambridge University Press.