Homalolepis cedron

Homalolepis cedron, commonly known as the "cedron" or "mountain cedar," is a significant medicinal shrub found in diverse tropical regions. Renowned for its potent bioactive compounds, it is traditionally utilized in various folk remedies to treat inflammatory conditions, skin ailments, and digestive issues, offering vast pharmacological potential.

  • Scientific name: Homalolepis cedron
  • Family: Simaroubaceae
  • Native range: Southern America

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae, it is positioned in the order Sapindales and the family Simaroubaceae. Ultimately, its taxonomic identity is defined by the genus Homalolepis, specifically the species Homalolepis cedron.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Sapindales WCVP
Family Simaroubaceae WCVP
Genus Homalolepis WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known scientifically as Homalolepis cedron, is referred to by the common name 苦香木 in Chinese (zh).
Language Common Name Source
zh 苦香木 Wikidata

Distribution

This plant exhibits a specific geographical range primarily concentrated within the tropical regions of Central America. It can be found growing in the diverse landscapes of Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Honduras. Additionally, its distribution extends southward through the territory of Panamá. Beyond the mainland, the species is also documented in the Caribbean region. Specifically, it inhabits the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.

Region Area Source
Central America Costa Rica WCVP
Central America El Salvador WCVP
Central America Honduras WCVP
Central America Panamá WCVP
Caribbean Trinidad-Tobago WCVP
Northern South America French Guiana WCVP
Northern South America Guyana WCVP
Northern South America Suriname WCVP
Northern South America Venezuela WCVP
Western South America Bolivia WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, Homalolepis cedron, possesses various components that contribute to its overall structure, but its medicinal properties are often associated with its durable wood. The wood serves as the essential internal framework of the plant, providing the necessary strength and stability to support its growth and survival in its natural habitat. In many traditional applications, the structural integrity and chemical composition of the wood are the primary focuses when studying the plant's botanical characteristics.
Total parts
1
Scientific sources
1
Plant Part Sources Confidence
wood 1 ★☆☆☆☆