Bois de RondeErythroxylum laurifolium & Erythroxylum sideroxyloides
Category
- Forests
Description
The Bois de Ronde encompasses several species of Erythroxylum, some of which are endemic to Mauritius and others endemic to both Mauritius and Reunion. This is the case for E. laurifolium and E. sideroxyloides. E. laurifolium is a shrub reaching up to 4 meters with slender twigs and simple, alternate elliptical leaves which are deep green on the upper side and light green on the lower surface. Both species have white star-shaped flowers and red fruit resembling small chilies, and are distinguished by their red leaf stalks[1].
[1] Atkinson, Rachel, and Jean-Claude Sevathian. 2005. A guide to the plants in Mauritius. Vacoas: Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.
Habitat and Ecology
E. laurifolium and E. sideroxyloides are found in the low altitude forests of Mauritius.
Conservation and management
Both species are found in the protected areas of Mauritius. E. sideroxyloides is considered ‘Least Concern’ while E. laurifolium is considered an ‘Endangered species’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Did you know?
Various species of Bois de ronde have been used as medicinal plants, as a diuretic and for renal stones, and is also known to have been used as an antispasmodic and to treat fevers and sore throats[1].
[1] Gurib-Fakim, Ameenah. 2009. An Illustrated Guide to the Flora of Mauritius and the Indian Ocean Islands. Centre de Phytothérapie et de Recherche.
References
[1] Atkinson, Rachel, and Jean-Claude Sevathian. 2005. A guide to the plants in Mauritius. Vacoas: Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.
[1] Gurib-Fakim, Ameenah. 2009. An Illustrated Guide to the Flora of Mauritius and the Indian Ocean Islands. Centre de Phytothérapie et de Recherche.
