Mallotus rhamnifolius

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Oxydectes reticulata
• Croton rhamnifolius
• Croton reticulatus
• Croton nervosus
• Mallotus zeylanicus
• Mallotus rhamnifolius var. ovatifolius
• Mallotus micranthus

Sources: Wikidata

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta within the class Equisetopsida. As a member of the subclass Magnoliidae and the order Malpighiales, it is further categorized into the family Euphorbiaceae. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Mallotus.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a fascinating geographical distribution that spans across two different continents. Within the Indian Subcontinent, it can be found growing in the diverse landscapes of India. Additionally, its presence is noted within the tropical regions of Sri Lanka. Moving across the globe to Western South America, the species also inhabits the territory of Bolivia. Consequently, the range of Mallotus rhamnifolius connects distinct ecological zones from Asia to South America.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Life history

The life history of Mallotus rhamnifolius is characterized by its classification as a phanerophyte, indicating that its perennating buds are located high above the ground on woody stems, which allows it to persist through varying seasonal conditions. In certain ecological contexts or specific growth stages, it may also exhibit characteristics consistent with a nanophanerophyte, where the woody structures remain relatively low or compact. As a perennial woody species, it follows a developmental trajectory involving the establishment of robust stem systems that support its canopy, ensuring long-term survival and the ability to reproduce through successive growing seasons.

Life form :

nanophanerophyte

Life form :

phanerophyte

Morphology

The morphology of Mallotus rhamnifolius is characterized by a woody growth form that primarily manifests as a tree or a shrub. As a terrestrial species, it lacks aquatic or semiaquatic adaptations and does not function as an epiphyte, maintaining a strictly land-based existence. The plant is an independent organism, meaning it does not exhibit parasitic behavior, and it is entirely self-supporting rather than functioning as a climber, liana, or vine. Its structural integrity is defined by its woody nature, supporting its upright habit within its natural habitat.

Aquatic :

terrestrial

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Growth form :

tree

Growth form :

shrub

Parasite :

independent

Woodiness :

woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Chemicals

Mallotus rhamnifolius has 4 reported phytochemicals identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include Caryophyllene oxide, Tricyclene, alpha-Cedrene epoxide, camphor.

Caryophyllene oxide

1. Natural product communications

Tricyclene

1. Natural product communications

alpha-Cedrene epoxide

1. Natural product communications

camphor

1. Natural product communications