Cayaponia

Cayaponia is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, commonly known as the gourd family. These plants are typically climbing or trailing vines native to the Americas, ranging from the southern United States down to South America, with a particular concentration in tropical and subtropical regions.

The genus is characterized by its tendrils, which aid in climbing, and its often deeply lobed or divided leaves. Flowers are typically small and unisexual, with male and female flowers occurring on the same plant (monoecious). The fruit is usually a small, berry-like structure, often brightly colored when ripe, though sometimes poisonous.

Species within Cayaponia exhibit a wide range of morphological diversity. They can be found in diverse habitats, including forests, thickets, and disturbed areas. Some species have been used in traditional medicine by indigenous populations, although scientific validation of their efficacy is often lacking. The taxonomic boundaries within Cayaponia have been subject to revision and debate, and ongoing research continues to refine the classification of species within this genus.