Intermediate homalolepis (Homalolepis intermedia)
Homalolepis intermedia - Overview, Habitat & Facts
Growing as a resilient subshrub in the Brazilian Cerrado, Homalolepis intermedia stands out for its underground woody stems and remarkable woodiness. These woody features allow the plant to withstand the frequent seasonal fires typical of its native environment.
The species occupies open savanna formations in South America. Its underground stems produce aerial shoots that rarely exceed half a meter in height, making it a low-growing woody component of the local flora.
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 intermedia (Intermediate homalolepis)
Morphology
This species is characterized by its compact, low-growing habit and specialized reproductive structures. The primary morphological features include:
- Growth Habit: It develops as a subshrub or small shrub, reaching approximately 35 to 40 centimeters in height, supported by a thick subterranean stem system.
- Stems: The aerial branches are typically brown and rough, emerging directly from the woody underground base.
- Foliage: The leaves are distinctly discolorous, showing a clear difference in coloration between the upper and lower surfaces, and arise closely clustered along the short branches.
- Flowers: The young inflorescences consist of greenish buds that are marked with wine-colored spots. During anthesis, the flowers display greenish petals with bright yellow anthers.
- Fruits: The mature fruits are fleshy drupes that turn a distinctive yellow color upon ripening.
Flowering season
Flowering occurs during the dry to transition seasons, particularly in August and November.
Applications
While direct commercial applications remain undeveloped, the species holds ecological significance. Its deep roots help bind the clayey soils of the Cerrado, preventing erosion during heavy tropical rains.
Research into similar species indicates a high concentration of secondary metabolites. Botanists study these compounds for potential pharmaceutical applications in the future.
Interesting facts
The evolutionary history of the plant is marked by taxonomic changes. For many decades, it was classified under the genus Simaba before phylogenetic studies reinstated the genus Homalolepis.
- Subterranean Survival: The extensive underground wood system acts as an energy reservoir, allowing the plant to quickly sprout new green leaves after a savanna fire.
- Altitude Range: The species has been recorded at elevations ranging from 280 meters to over 960 meters above sea level.
- Clay Preference: Unlike some savanna plants that prefer sand, this species shows a strong preference for nutrient-poor clay soils.
Geography of distribution
- GoiΓ‘s
- Mato Grosso
- Tocantins
- ParΓ‘
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO), Kew Science.
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF).
- World Flora Online (WFO).
- Devecchi, M. F. & Pirani, J. R. (2018). Reinstatement of Homalolepis (Simaroubaceae). Phytotaxa.