Dorstenia is a genus of the Moraceae family, known by the popular name 'carapiá' or 'caapiá'. The aim was to carry out taxonomic and conservation studies of Dorstenia occurring in the state of São Paulo. This work includes illustrations and determination keys for the species. The genus differs from others in the family in that it is a herb with unique inflorescences called 'cenanthus'. There are around 150 species worldwide, 37 of which are found in Brazil. In the state of São Paulo, 11 species were found, most of which inhabit shady and humid places.