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virola
Scientific Name: Virola calophylla
Family: Myristicaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Virola
Virola is a genus of medium to large-sized trees belonging to the Myristicaceae family, which also includes nutmeg. Several species are known and utilized in various ways.
Considerations for Pets
- The bark, leaves, and roots of Virola species contain alkaloids.
- Some Virola species produce a resin from the inner bark.
Scientific Name and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Virola spp.
- Family: Myristicaceae (also referenced as myristicaceous)
- Major Group: Angiosperms (Flowering plants)
- Synonyms:
- Myristica surinamensis
- Palala surinamensis
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the South American rainforest.
- Specifically mentioned as common in lowland Suriname, found in almost all forest types there.
Ecological Role
- Pollen structure exhibits a wide range of patterns which helps in identification of different species and analysis of ecological relationship
Morphological Characteristics
- Virola are medium-sized trees.
- Some species produce a red resin from the inner bark.
- The wood is lightweight (approximately 28 lbs/cubic ft), pinkish-tan in color, works easily, and has a generally straight grain.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Used by indigenous groups in the wet tropical forests of South America, often in religious ceremonies.
- Edible Lime (Calcium Hydroxide) needs to be mixed with Virola resin to make snuff active.
Quirky Facts
- Resin from Virola theidora is considered a gift of the sun god by natives of Colombia due to its hallucinogenic properties.
Further Information
- PLANTS Database, National Plant Data Center, NRCS, USDA.
- Arizona State University Herbarium.
- Wikimedia Commons has multimedia related to Virola.