Erythroxylum zambesiacum

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Distribution

This plant exhibits a widespread distribution across several key regions of the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, its presence is specifically noted within the borders of Tanzania. Moving into South Tropical Africa, the species can be found inhabiting parts of both Zambia and Zimbabwe. Its range extends further into Southern Africa, where it is documented in Botswana. Finally, the plant is also located within the unique geographical area known as the Caprivi Strip.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Erythroxylum zambesiacum is defined by its specific altitudinal preferences within its native habitats, where it thrives within a distinct vertical niche. This species is predominantly found at mid-level elevations, occupying a range that begins at a minimum of 300 m AMSL and extends to a maximum of 915 m AMSL. This elevational distribution suggests an adaptation to specific climatic variables, such as temperature gradients and moisture availability, characteristic of these subtropical or tropical montane environments. By occupying this specific altitudinal belt, the plant situates itself within ecological zones that likely provide the necessary soil compositions and light intensities required for its growth and metabolic processes.

Elevational range max:

915 m AMSL

Elevational range min:

300 m AMSL

Life history

The life history of Erythroxylum zambesiacum is characterized by its status as a perennial plant, meaning it maintains its vegetative structures and continues to live through multiple growing seasons rather than completing its cycle in a single year. As a perennial species, it undergoes a multi-year developmental process where it establishes a robust root system and woody framework to support its long-term survival in its natural habitat. This extended lifecycle allows the plant to undergo repeated cycles of vegetative growth and reproductive phases, contributing to its persistence within its ecological niche.

Lifecycle :

perennial

Morphology

The morphology of Erythroxylum zambesiacum is characterized by a woody growth form that manifests primarily as a tree or a shrub. It is a terrestrial species, functioning as an independent organism rather than a parasite or an epiphyte. The plant exhibits a self-supporting structure and does not function as a climber. In terms of stature, it reaches a plant height ranging from a minimum of 3 meters to a maximum of 7 meters.

Aquatic :

terrestrial

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Growth form :

tree

Growth form :

shrub

Parasite :

independent

Plant height max:

7 m

Plant height min:

3 m

Woodiness :

woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Chemicals

Erythroxylum zambesiacum has 4 reported phytochemicals identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include 3,4,5-TRIMETHOXYBENZOIC ACID, 3,4,5-Trimethoxycinnamate, PHENYLACETIC ACID, acetic acid.

3,4,5-TRIMETHOXYBENZOIC ACID

1. Dr. Duke

3,4,5-Trimethoxycinnamate

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PHENYLACETIC ACID

1. Dr. Duke

acetic acid

1. Dr. Duke

Activities

Erythroxylum zambesiacum has 17 reported activities identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Acidulant, Antibacterial, Antiotitic, Antisalmonella, Antivaginitic.

Acidulant

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Antibacterial

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Antiotitic

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Antisalmonella

1. Dr. Duke

Antivaginitic

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Expectorant

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FLavor

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Fungicide

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Keratitigenic

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Mucolytic

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