SafePlants

Breria radula: The Rough Strongbark

Breria radula, commonly known as rough strongbark, is a rare plant found in specific regions of Florida. This page offers information about its characteristics, habitat, and more.

Considerations for Pets

• Leaves can be hairy or rough, especially when young.

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Breria radula (Poir.) G. Don
• Common Name: Rough Strongbark, Strongbark, Strongback
• Family: Boraginaceae
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Breria revoluta, Breria ovata (in older references)
• Related Species: Breria succulenta (Bahama Strongbark Bodywood), Breria cassinifolia (Little Strongbark)

Distribution and Habitat

• Breria radula is primarily found in extreme southern Florida, specifically in Monroe County and the Florida Keys.
• It is considered rare at Key West and adjacent Lower Florida Keys.
• One of Florida's rarest trees, it's native only to a very small area of the Florida Keys.

Morphological Characteristics

• Breria radula is a large shrub or small tree.
• The bark is thin, light brown tinged with red, and slightly roughened.
• Leaves are smooth and shining, about 2-3 inches long. Young leaves can be rough.
• It produces reddish-orange fruits.
• The plant is generally erect, with a bare stem at the base and many ramifications towards the top.

Ecological Role

• Rough strongbark is a Florida state-listed endangered plant with significant wildlife value.

Quirky Facts

• The leaves, when young, are rough, but become smooth as they mature.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden is a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
• Discover Life offers information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Breria radula.
• Atlas of United States Trees provides range maps for Breria radula.