Contents
Description
Haematoxylum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae. It is native to the Americas and is found in tropical and subtropical regions. The name of the genus is derived from the Greek words “haema” meaning blood and “toxon” meaning bow, referring to the use of the plant’s wood for making archery bows. Haematoxylum has a rich history of use in traditional medicine, with extracts of the bark and heartwood being used to treat a variety of ailments including diarrhea, dysentery, and hemorrhoids.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Haematoxylum |
Appearance
Haematoxylum is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 12 meters tall. The bark is gray and rough, and the leaves are compound with 5-9 leaflets. The flowers are small and yellow, and the fruit is a pod that contains several seeds. The heartwood of the tree is dark red and is highly valued for its use in dyeing textiles and making ink.
Care Guide
Haematoxylum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Watering should be done sparingly, and fertilization is not necessary. Haematoxylum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Haematoxylum is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly drained soil. It is also important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to fungal infections.
Habitat
Haematoxylum is native to the Americas and is found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly found in dry forests and savannas, and it can also grow in disturbed areas such as roadsides and pastures.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the significance of the name Haematoxylum?
A: The name of the genus is derived from the Greek words “haema” meaning blood and “toxon” meaning bow, referring to the use of the plant’s wood for making archery bows.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Haematoxylum?
A: Extracts of the bark and heartwood of Haematoxylum have been used to treat a variety of ailments including diarrhea, dysentery, and hemorrhoids.
Q: How tall can Haematoxylum grow?
A: Haematoxylum can grow up to 12 meters tall.
Q: What is the preferred soil type for Haematoxylum?
A: Haematoxylum prefers well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Bauhinia
- Cassia
- Caesalpinia
- Delonix
References
- Flora of North America: Haematoxylum
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Haematoxylum
- Plants of the World Online: Haematoxylum
