Iridosma Bush (Iridosma)

Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Iridosma: Taxonomy, Morphology, and Botanical Profile

Found exclusively within the dense tropical landscapes of Gabon, Iridosma stands as a unique botanical lineage within the Simaroubaceae family. This monotypic genus contains only a single accepted species, which thrives in the warm, humid climate of equatorial Africa.

First documented in the mid-20th century, the plant remains a subject of specialized botanical interest due to its highly restricted geographic distribution and distinct morphological traits.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ core eudicots
  • ∟ Superrosids
  • ∟ rosids
  • ∟ malvids
  • ∟ order Sapindales
  • ∟ family Simaroubaceae (Quassia family)
  • ∟ genus Iridosma (Iridosma Bush)

Living Pulse

Powered by iNaturalist

Morphology

This plant grows as a robust tree characterized by impressive, glabrous leaves that can reach up to 60 centimeters in length. The foliage is pinnately compound, typically featuring 23 coriaceous, or leather-like, leaflets measuring about 8 to 15 centimeters long.

Its reproductive structures consist of fragrant, hermaphroditic flowers arranged in branched panicles. The overall leaf structure has been noted by botanists to closely resemble that of Quassia grandifolia.

Interesting facts

The genus was first formally described by botanists André Aubréville and François Pellegrin in 1962 based on specimens collected in Gabon. In historical taxonomic records, the plant was initially associated with the name Mannia letestui before its current classification was established.

Geography of distribution

  • Gabon

Natural varieties

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • Tropicos
  • World Flora Online (WFO)
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

Paradise tree

Paradise tree

Simarouba

A genus of neotropical trees and shrubs famous for their lightweight timber and therapeutic bark.

Read more → 46