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Antilles calophyllum
Scientific Name: Calophyllum antillanum
Family: Clusiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree, Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Calophyllum antillanum
Calophyllum antillanum, a member of the Calophyllaceae family, is known by several common names.
- Common Names: Antilles calophyllum, Alexandrian laurel, Santa Maria, Galba, Mast Wood, Beauty Leaf, Calaba Tree. Other common names include West Indian-laurel and Mara (likely referring to Calophyllum calaba). French speakers may know it as Calophylle des Antilles or Bois de charromage.
Considerations for Pets
This plant is a tree or shrub. Consider the potential for pets to ingest leaves or flowers if accessible. Also, it may produce flowers or sap.
Considerations for Children
This plant is a tree or shrub. Consider the potential for children to ingest leaves or flowers if accessible. Also, it may produce flowers or sap.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Family: Calophyllaceae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms: Calophyllum calaba L. (accepted synonym), Calophyllum brasiliense Cambess. (preferred name for some), Calophyllum lucidum Benth., Calophyllum chiapense Standley, C. rekoi Standley, Calophyllum brasiliense var antillanum, Calophyllum brasiliense misapplied.
- Nomenclatural Reference: Sci. Surv. Porto Rico & Virgin Islands 5: 584. 1924.
Distribution and Habitat
Calophyllum antillanum is found in the Antilles, from Cuba to Jamaica and Trinidad-Tobago, including the central Lesser Antilles. It is also native to the U.S. and can be found on coastal sands. Some sources list it as not native, with an EPPC(I) status, indicating potential invasiveness in certain regions.
Morphological Characteristics
- It is an evergreen, medium-sized tropical tree, sometimes described as a shrub.
- It can grow up to 15 meters tall.
- It possesses a dense crown and simple, alternate leaves with a rounded blade.
- It has green foliage and produces orange flowers.
Ecological Role
The text suggests that Calophyllum antillanum may be considered an invasive species in some areas (EPPC(I) status). Its adaptability to various site requirements makes it suitable for plantations.
Quirky Facts
- The name Calophyllum means "beauty-leaf."
- The epithet brasiliense reflects its presence in Brazil, while antillanum references its distribution in the Antilles.
- There's been much disagreement among botanists over the correct application of the name Calophyllum.
Further Information
- USDA PLANTS Database: Symbol CAAN22
- Invasive Plant Atlas
- Discover Life: Provides information on biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution.