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torreya
Scientific Name: Torreya
Family: Taxaceae
Category: Gymnosperm
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Florida Torreya (Torreya taxifolia)
The Florida Torreya, scientifically known as Torreya taxifolia, is a rare and endangered evergreen conifer. It belongs to the yew family (Taxaceae). It is sometimes referred to as T. tax or Florida torreya.
Other common names include Florida nutmeg, gopher wood, stinking yew, and stinking cedar.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant is also known as stinking cedar or stinking yew which may indicate an odor that could be of interest or aversion to animals.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Torreya taxifolia
- Family: Taxaceae (Yew family)
- Genus: Torreya
- Synonyms/Alternative Names: T. tax, Florida Nutmeg Tree, Gopherwood, Stinking Cedar
Distribution and Habitat
- The Florida Torreya is endemic to the Apalachicola River drainage of the Florida panhandle and adjacent Georgia, USA.
- It is known only from a restricted area of the Florida panhandle.
- High bluffs overlooking the Apalachicola River are a notable feature of its habitat.
Morphological Characteristics
- Torreya taxifolia is described as a small to medium sized, evergreen coniferous tree.
Ecological Role
- The Florida Torreya is critically endangered. Efforts are underway to save the tree from extinction.
Quirky Facts
- One of its common names is "stinking cedar," which hints at a distinctive odor.
- Torreya State Park in Florida is named after this rare species.
Further Information
- ARKive offers photos and facts about the Florida Torreya.
- Information can be found in the Fire Effects Information System, Online, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences.
- www.torreya.info provides additional resources.