Dye maclura mora (Maclura tinctoria subsp. mora)

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Maclura tinctoria subsp. mora - Dyer's Mulberry Subspecies Guide

This woody plant thrives naturally across various forest ecosystems in South America. Recognized for its valuable timber and ecological role, it contributes significantly to regional forest canopies. Local populations have long utilized its resources for traditional purposes.

Taxonomy

  • царство Plantae
  • division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • Angiosperms
  • mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • eudicots
  • Superrosids
  • rosids
  • order Rosales
  • family Moraceae
  • genus Maclura (Osage orange)
  • species Maclura tinctoria (Dyer's mulberry tree)
  • subspecies Maclura tinctoria subsp. mora (Dye maclura mora)

Living Pulse

Morphology

The subspecies grows as a medium to large tree, reaching heights up to 20 meters. It features simple, alternate leaves with slightly serrated margins. The stems often bear sharp, woody spines, especially in younger stages.

The flowers are small, yellowish-green, and clustered in dense inflorescences. Its wood is highly distinctive, displaying a bright yellow color that darkens upon exposure to air.

Flowering season

Spring to early summer

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Applications

The heartwood contains morin, a natural yellow dye widely used for coloring textiles and leather. Additionally, the heavy, durable timber serves as a material for construction, posts, and carpentry. Extracts from the leaves and bark also find applications in traditional medicine for treating inflammatory conditions.

Interesting facts

  • The wood is highly resistant to rot and insect attacks, making it highly prized for outdoor structures.
  • The yellow dye produced from this tree was historically a major export from South American regions.
  • Birds and small mammals feed on the fleshy fruits, facilitating seed dispersal in its native habitat.

Geography of distribution

  • Argentina
  • Paraguay
  • Bolivia
  • Brazil

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

True Araucarias

True Araucarias

Araucaria sect. Araucaria

Araucaria sect. Araucaria is a botanical section of evergreen conifers native to South America. It …