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Guiana brosimum
Scientific Name: Brosimum guianense
Family: Moraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Brosimum guianense: The Guiana Brosimum
Brosimum guianense, commonly known as Guiana Brosimum, is a fascinating tree species with a variety of uses and a wide distribution in South America. Let's explore its classification, habitat, and interesting properties.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Brosimum guianense (Aubl.) Huber
- Common Name: Guiana Brosimum
- Family: Moraceae (Mulberry Family)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms:
- Brosimum aubletii Poepp. & Endl.
- Alicastrum guianense (Aubl.) Kuntze
- Brosimum discolor Schott
- Brosimum lecointei Ducke
- Brosimum lemeei (Benoist)
Distribution and Habitat
Brosimum guianense is found in South America, specifically in:
- The Guianas (Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname)
- Brazil
- Venezuela
- Peru
- Colombia
- Ecuador
- Also found as far north as South Mexico and Panama
It's worth noting that individual trees in the Guianas are highly sought after for their figured snakewood.
Uses
- Seed: In French Guiana, the seeds are pulverized.
- Latex: The latex of Brosimum species is used medicinally and can be considered toxic in some instances.
- Wood: Known as snakewood.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant produces latex, which can be found in the bark and other parts of the tree.
Considerations for Children
- The plant produces latex, which can be found in the bark and other parts of the tree.
Quirky Facts
- The wood of Brosimum guianense is known as snakewood and is highly prized for its unique figured appearance.
- The latex of some Brosimum species is used to produce a drug, highlighting the complex chemical properties within the genus.
Related Species
Other notable species within the Brosimum genus include:
- Brosimum alicastrum
- Brosimum utile
- Brosimum rubescens (Bloodwood)
- Brosimum acutifolium
- Brosimum galactodendron
Further Information
For more information, consult the following resources:
- Discover Life
- Plantillustrations.org
- ResearchGate