Status:
valid
Authors:
Radlk.
Source:
tro
Year:
1878
Citation Micro:
Sitzungsber. Math.-Phys. Cl. Königl. Bayer. Akad. Wiss. München 8: 284 (1878)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001134861
Common Names
- Thouinidium oblongum
- Oblong Thouinidium
- Oblongum Thouinidium
Description
Thouinidium oblongum (also called Oblong Thouinidium, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree that can reach up to 6 meters in height. It has a smooth bark and its leaves are elliptic-oblong, with a pointed tip. It is native to Central America and the Caribbean, and it is found in tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests.
Uses & Benefits
Thouinidium oblongum is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a ground cover. It is also used to make herbal teas and is known to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Thouinidium oblongum are small, white, and have five petals. The seeds are small, round, and black. The seedlings are small, with a single pair of oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Thouinidium oblongum is a fast-growing, evergreen, woody shrub that can be propagated from cuttings or by layering. It prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It can be grown in containers or in the ground and should be pruned regularly to keep it in shape.
Where to Find Thouinidium oblongum
Thouinidium oblongum is native to Mexico.
Species in the Thouinidium genus
Species in the Sapindaceae family