First Record of the Cultivation of Gypsophila elegans M. Bieb (Caryophyllaceae) in Cuba

Resumen

Context: The presence of plants from the family Caryophyllaceae in a private garden located in the municipality of Ciego de Ávila, which do not correspond to any of the species from this family recorded in the preliminary inventory of Cuban vascular plants, prompted the need to effectively document their presence in the country.

Aims: To reveal the identity of the taxon, describe its main phenotypic attributes, and design an analytical key to differentiate it from related taxa; to clarify its presence in the country and compile information regarding its principal properties and current uses.

Methods: Botanical research methods were employed, including work with collections, comparison with descriptions and keys found in specialized catalogs, as well as scientific description and illustration. Inquiries were conducted with local residents to uncover aspects related to the ethnobotany of the species.  

Results: Gypsophila elegans was recorded for the first time in Cuba, thereby adding a new genus to the country’s exotic flora. Additionally, a key is presented to identify the genera of Caryophyllaceae represented in the national territory. It is the only species of this family in the national territory that exhibits both stipules and connate sepals forming an obconic or bell-shaped calyx. It has only been observed in cultivation, but it should be considered as having the potential to naturalize and even become invasive, given its behavior in other regions of the world.

Conclusions: Due to its stable cultivation in at least one region of the country, its promising ornamental value and commercial potential as a cut flower, as well as its saponin content, Gypsophila elegans should be considered part of Cuba’s current economic flora.