Boquila

Boquila is a monotypic genus of flowering plants in the family Lardizabalaceae, endemic to temperate forests of central and southern Chile and Argentina. The sole species is Boquila trifoliolata, the chameleon vine. The sole member of this genus was first described in 1782 by Juan Ignacio Molina, and the genus itself was established in 1839 by Joseph Decaisne. B. trifoliata forms non-parasitic vines that wind around host plants, using them for structure and protection. B. trifoliata is monoecious, and its flowers are an off white color. It bears an edible fruit and has been historically used in rope and basket making.

B. trifoliata is the only known plant species to engage in mimetic polymorphism, or the ability to mimic multiple host species, often simultaneously. This is a form of Batesian mimicry, when a harmless species mimics a harmful one to ward off predators. Contact between the vines and host trees is not necessary for mimicking to commence, and the mechanism by which this occurs is still unknown. Hypotheses about the mechanism include microbial mediated horizontal gene transfer, volatile organic compound sensing, and the use of eye-like structures.