Bhesa nitidissima
Template:Short description Template:Speciesbox
Bhesa nitidissima is a species of plant in the Centroplacaceae family. It is endemic to Sri Lanka.
Description
A tree with an average height of Script error: No such module "convert".[1] but can reach as high as Script error: No such module "convert"..[2] Bark is usually dark brown and deeply cracked on older specimens. The unique feature of the Bhesa genus within the Centroplacaceae family is its geniculate petioles; which essentially means that the leaf bends sharply away from the stalk. The petiole usually contains three vascular bundles. Seed germination is epigeal.[2] Produces 3-4mm wide, greenish to white sessile flowers with 5 petals. The flowers produce greenish brown, oblong seeds encased in a thick gelatinous aril inside capsules up to 2.2 cm long.[1]
Ecology
Endemic to Sri Lanka. Found mostly in low elevation wet zone forests, but have a recorded range of up to Script error: No such module "convert".. The tree flowers September through October and produces fruit November through December.[1] Although listed as critically endangered in 1998,[3] a 2017 handbook of Sri Lankan flora suggests the tree is now quite common.[1]
Uses
The arils of Bhesa are a known human food source. The tree is occasionally used for timber.[2] Extracts from this genus are used in traditional medicine, to cure vomiting and diarrhea.[4]
References
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