Alonsoa (commonly known as mask flower) is a genus of flowering plants in the figwort family Scrophulariaceae, within the order Lamiales. The genus comprises about 12 species that range in habit from herbaceous perennials to small shrubs. Alonsoas typically grow 30–100 cm in height, with small, broadly oval, serrated leaves. Their flowers — which may be red, orange, yellow, white, or occasionally blue — are borne on loose terminal racemes, giving the genus its common name from the mask-like appearance of the blossoms.
The genus is native to Central and western South America, spanning from southern Mexico southward through the Andes to Peru and Chile. At least two species have also established native ranges in South Africa. The genus was named after Zenón de Alonso Acosta, a Spanish colonial official stationed in Bogotá, Colombia.
Among the recognized species are Alonsoa meridionalis, often cultivated as an ornamental annual in temperate gardens, and Alonsoa honoraria. Other species include A. acutifolia, A. linearis, A. hirsuta, A. caulialata, A. auriculata, A. minor, A. pallida, A. peduncularis, A. quadrifolia, and A. serrata.
Etymology
The genus is named after Zenón de Alonso Acosta, a Spanish colonial official serving in Bogotá, Colombia. The common name "mask flower" refers to the face-like appearance of the blossoms.
Distribution
Alonsoa is native to Central and western South America, ranging from southern Mexico through the Andes to Peru and Chile. At least two species are also native to South Africa, making the genus amphiatlantic in its natural distribution.
