Pohl's Quassia (Quassia pohliana)

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Quassia pohliana: Botanical Overview and Distribution

Native forests of South America harbor Quassia pohliana, a distinct woody species first documented in scientific literature during the mid-20th century. Botanist Rudolf Mansfeld and later Jozef Jacobus Nooteboom contributed to its modern taxonomic classification. This species remains a subject of interest for researchers studying the diverse flora of the Neotropical region.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ Superrosids
  • ∟ rosids
  • ∟ malvids
  • ∟ order Sapindales
  • ∟ family Simaroubaceae (Quassia family)
  • ∟ genus Quassia (Quassia Wood)
  • ∟ species Quassia pohliana (Pohl's Quassia)

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Morphology

This woody plant typically develops as a small tree or shrub. The leaves are arranged alternately along the branches and possess a distinct pinnate structure characteristic of its taxonomic group. The flowers are small, structurally complex, and adapted for specific insect pollinators within its native habitat.

Its woody tissue contains bitter compounds typical of the genus. These chemical defenses help protect the plant against herbivores and pathogens in the wild.

Interesting facts

The species name honors the prominent Austrian botanist Johann Emanuel Pohl, who conducted extensive research in Brazil during the 19th century. Scientific records indicate that the plant contains various secondary metabolites currently studied for potential bioactivity.

Geography of distribution

  • Brazil

Sources

  • International Plant Names Index (IPNI) — Scientific nomenclature and publication details for Quassia pohliana.
  • Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (POWO) — Distribution data and taxonomic status.
  • World Flora Online (WFO) — Taxonomic hierarchy and accepted names.

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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