Bois de canneWarneckea trinervisv
Category
- Forests
Description
Warneckea trinervis is a small tree that can reach 6 meters high. The branches are numerous and dense with short stems with three veins. The leaves are small, opposite, pale green and shiny. The plant produces bouquets of white flowers with long stamens along the branches. The fruit are small and round, like berries, which turn blue-black when mature.
Habitat and ecology
Warneckea trinervis is endemic to Mauritius. It proliferates mainly in the undergrowth of intermediate forests and higher altitude forests, where rainfall varies between 3000 and 5000 mm annually, forming the undergrowth of the native vegetation. The flowers are pollinated by flies and birds. The plant produced viable seeds which are dispersed by birds and seedlings can be observed in the wild. It is the most widespread endemic plant in the Bel Ombre forest.
Conservation and threats
Species classified as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species due to threats including habitat loss and degradation.
Did you know?
Historically, Warneckea trinervis was used to make wooden wheels.
In the past, the stem was used to make canes for walking, hence its vernacular name.
