Angiosperms (Flowering Plants) • Earth.com

Lemonwood

(Pittosporum eugenioides)

galery
en

Description

Pittosporum eugenioides, commonly known as lemonwood or tarata in Māori, is a species of flowering plant in the Pittosporaceae family. It is a medium-sized tree native to New Zealand and can grow up to 15 meters tall. Lemonwood is an evergreen tree with a dense crown and glossy, dark green leaves. In this article, we will explore the botanical characteristics, habitat, cultural significance, and uses of Pittosporum eugenioides. Botanical Characteristics: The leaves of Pittosporum eugenioides are oblong-elliptic, 5–10 cm long, and 2–4 cm wide, with a glossy, dark green upper surface and a lighter green underside. The flowers are small, with a diameter of 1–2 cm, and are arranged in clusters at the ends of branches. They are creamy-white with a sweet fragrance and appear from October to December. The fruit is a capsule, 1–1.5 cm in diameter, containing numerous seeds. Habitat: Pittosporum eugenioides is native to New Zealand and can be found throughout the country in a variety of habitats, including coastal forests, lowland forests, and shrublands. It is commonly found growing alongside other native trees, such as kahikatea, totara, and pohutukawa. Lemonwood is a hardy species that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is often found growing on slopes, ridges, and terraces. Cultural Significance: Pittosporum eugenioides has significant cultural importance for Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand. The tree is commonly known as tarata in Māori, and the bark and leaves were traditionally used for medicinal purposes. Tarata is also considered a sacred tree, and its leaves and branches were used in various Māori ceremonies and rituals. The sweet fragrance of the flowers is said to attract the tui, a native bird with a distinctive song that is highly valued by Māori. Uses: Pittosporum eugenioides has a range of practical uses, as well as cultural and medicinal uses. The timber of the tree is hard and durable, making it suitable for a range of purposes, including furniture, flooring, and boat building. The bark and leaves of the tree have been traditionally used by Māori for medicinal purposes, including the treatment of wounds, stomach complaints, and skin conditions. In addition to its practical uses, Pittosporum eugenioides is also commonly used as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks. The tree's attractive glossy leaves and sweetly scented flowers make it a popular choice for landscaping. It can be pruned to form a dense hedge or trained to grow as a small tree. Conclusion: Pittosporum eugenioides, or lemonwood, is a versatile and hardy tree native to New Zealand. It has significant cultural importance for Māori, who have traditionally used the bark and leaves of the tree for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. The tree's hard and durable timber is also highly valued for its practical uses. Lemonwood is also commonly used as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks, thanks to its attractive foliage and sweetly scented flowers. Pittosporum eugenioides is perfect for anyone looking for an attractive and versatile tree for their garden or landscaping project.

Taxonomic tree:

Domain:
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum:
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order:Apiales
Family:Pittosporaceae
Genus:Pittosporum
News coming your way
The biggest news about our planet delivered to you each day