Klain's bitterwood (Hannoa klaineana)
Hannoa klaineana Tree: Botany, Description, and Uses
Reaching high into the canopy of tropical African rainforests, Hannoa klaineana stands as a prominent tree valued for both its ecological role and light timber. This species thrives in the moist lowland forests across West and Central Africa, where it plays a key part in the forest ecosystem. The tree is recognized for its straight bole and bitter bark, which has a history of use in regional traditional medicine.
Taxonomy
- β ΡΠ°ΡΡΡΠ²ΠΎ Plantae
- β division Tracheophytes
- β subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
- β Angiosperms
- β mesangiosperms
- β eudicots
- β Superrosids
- β rosids
- β malvids
- β order Sapindales
- β family Simaroubaceae (Quassia family)
- β genus Hannoa (Hannoa Tree)
- β species Hannoa klaineana (Klain's bitterwood)
Morphology
Hannoa klaineana typically grows as a deciduous tree reaching heights of up to 30 to 40 meters. Its straight trunk is supported by a smooth or slightly fissured greyish bark. The leaves are pinnately compound, arranged alternately, and feature several pairs of leathery, oblong-elliptic leaflets.
Small, cream-colored or white flowers are produced in large terminal panicles. These blossoms develop into ellipsoid drupes, which turn purplish-black when ripe and contain a single oily seed.
Applications
The light, soft wood of this tree is utilized locally for light construction, plywood, boxes, and crates. In traditional African medicine, decoctions made from the bitter bark and roots are administered to treat fevers and malaria symptoms.
Interesting facts
- The seeds and bark of Hannoa klaineana contain bitter quassinoid compounds, which have been studied for their potential antimalarial and antimicrobial properties.
- Its wood is relatively easy to work but has low durability, making it primarily suitable for indoor applications or temporary structures.
Geography of distribution
- Cameroon
- Gabon
- Nigeria
- CΓ΄te d'Ivoire
- Ghana
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
- World Flora Online (WFO)
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)