Symplocos buxifolioides
Symplocos buxifolioides is a tree in the family Symplocaceae, native to Borneo. The specific epithet buxifolioides refers to the species' resemblance to Symplocos buxifolia.[3]
| Symplocos buxifolioides | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Symplocaceae |
| Genus: | Symplocos |
| Species: | S. buxifolioides |
| Binomial name | |
| Symplocos buxifolioides | |
Description
Symplocos buxifolioides grows up to 10 metres (33 ft) tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 10 cm (4 in). The curved twigs are brown to black. The leathery leaves are elliptic to ovate and measure up to 4.5 cm (2 in) long. The inflorescences feature racemes bearing one to three white flowers.[3]
Distribution and habitat
Symplocos buxifolioides is endemic to Borneo, where it is known only from Mount Kinabalu in Sabah. Its habitat is montane forests, at elevations of 2,400–3,660 m (8,000–12,000 ft).[1]
Conservation
Symplocos buxifolioides has been assessed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. With its very small population, extreme rainfall and/or landslides could push the species towards critical endangerment. Being in Kinabalu Park affords the species a level of protection.[1]
References
- Tsen, S.; Damit, A.; Khoo, E.; Maryani, A.; Maycock, C.R.; Nilus, R.; Sugau, J. & Pereira, J.T. (2021). "Symplocos buxifolioides". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2021: e.T162031200A162033964. Retrieved 20 February 2023.
- "Symplocos buxifolioides". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 20 February 2023.
- Pearce, K. G. (2004). "Symplocos Jacq.". In Soepadmo, E.; Saw, L. G.; Chung, R. C. K. (eds.). Tree Flora of Sabah and Sarawak. Vol. 5. Forest Research Institute Malaysia. pp. 400–401. ISBN 983-2181-59-3.