Thread-branch Plum Yew (Cephalotaxus filiformis)
Cephalotaxus filiformis: Botanical Profile and Taxon Info
Dating back to its initial publication by Knight and Gordon in 1858, Cephalotaxus filiformis remains a historically documented gymnosperm taxon. This plant is documented primarily in early European horticultural literature. Modern taxonomic databases often list it as an unconfirmed or synonymous name within the plum yew genus.
Taxonomy
- ∟ царство Plantae
- ∟ division Tracheophytes
- ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
- ∟ superclass Gymnospermae
- ∟ division Pinophyta
- ∟ subclass Cupressidae
- ∟ order Cupressales (Cypresses and junipers)
- ∟ family Cephalotaxaceae (Plum-yews family)
- ∟ genus Cephalotaxus (Plum yew)
- ∟ species Cephalotaxus filiformis (Thread-branch Plum Yew)
Morphology
The linear leaves present a helical arrangement on the secondary branches, showing a thickness notably inferior to that of other related species. The specific epithet refers to the thin and flexible appearance of its young branchlets.
The male and female reproductive structures develop separately, although specific details regarding the maturation of their fleshy seeds lack detailed descriptions in recent scientific literature.
Interesting facts
The first specimens were described by European researchers in the second half of the nineteenth century. The name highlights the unique shape of the plant's vegetative organs.
- The thread-like shape of the crown helps the plant to efficiently capture diffused light.
- All parts of the shoots secrete essential oils with a characteristic coniferous aroma.
Sources
- World Flora Online (WFO)
- International Plant Names Index (IPNI)