Bois durSecurinega durissima
Category
- Forests
Description
S. durissima is a tree of 12 meters height with a brown rough bark covered with small scales. The adult leaves are staggered and grow from the stems in a slight zigzag pattern from the petiole elbow, they are of a orange color. The flowers are tiny and appear in the axils of the leaves. The fruits are spherical, rough with reddish seeds.
Habitat and ecology
This species can be found in forests of low to medium altitude. It is still rather common locally and is not, for the moment endangered to disappear. The plant produces many fruits and the seeds are dispersed by birds and fruit bats. Many seedlings can be found under the adult plant.
Conservation and threats
This species however is still considered ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List. The plantlets are used in forest restoration projects and landscaping activities. Threats to the species include habitat loss and the spread of exotic species.
Did you know.
The wood of Securinega durissima is very hard and dense hence its common name. The wood was used in the manufacture of furniture, houses and ships. The plant was first noted by Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1791.
