Smooth homalolepis (Homalolepis glabra)
Homalolepis glabra: Cerrado and Chaco Flora Profile
Inhabiting the vast savanna ecosystems of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, Homalolepis glabra develops as a sturdy woody shrub or small tree. Its ability to tolerate dry climates allows it to occupy diverse habitats across the South American interior.
This species is especially common in scrublands and gallery forest margins. It contributes to soil stability and provides valuable shade in open savanna landscapes.
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 Homalolepis (Homalolepis Tree)
- β species Homalolepis glabra (Smooth homalolepis)
Morphology
The defining botanical feature of Homalolepis glabra is its complete lack of pubescence on most vegetative parts. This gives the plant a distinctively clean, smooth appearance.
- Foliage: Imparipinnate compound leaves featuring oblong leaflets that are entirely glabrous (hairless) on both surfaces.
- Bark: Relatively smooth, light grey bark that contains highly bitter, medicinal chemical compounds.
- Flowers: Small, pale-colored flowers arranged in loose, branching axillary or terminal panicles.
The fruit is a small drupe, which turns dark as it ripens. The seeds inside are highly viable and germinable under seasonal moisture conditions.
Flowering season
Flowers during the spring and early summer months, typically between August and December.
Applications
Various parts of Homalolepis glabra are utilized in traditional South American medicine. The bitter bark has been widely employed as a natural febrifuge.
- Medicinal Tea: Infusions of the leaves or bark are taken to alleviate stomach disorders and combat malaria.
- Agroforestry: Its tolerance to poor soils makes it a candidate for restoration of dry forest borders.
Interesting facts
The specific epithet glabra refers to the smooth, hairless nature of its leaves. This trait distinguishes it from several related species that exhibit dense pubescence.
- Natural Defense: The high quassinoid content in its tissues provides excellent resistance against grazing insects.
- Wide Range: Unlike many of its endemic relatives, this species has successfully colonized areas in Paraguay and Argentina.
Geography of distribution
- Minas Gerais
- Mato Grosso do Sul
- Mato Grosso
- SΓ£o Paulo
- GoiΓ‘s
- MaranhΓ£o
- Paraguay
- Misiones (Argentina)
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
- World Flora Online (WFO)
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
- Tropicos database (Missouri Botanical Garden)