Canthium inerme

5 - small Canthium inerme tree - Cape Town

Canthium inerme - Cape Town 2

Canthium inerme - Cape Town 5

Canthium inerme - turkey berry tree - Cape Town

Turkeyberry tree - Newlands forest - Canthium inerme 2

Canthium inerme

Canthium inerme is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is native to various regions in Africa and is known for its distinctive characteristics and uses in traditional medicine.

Description

Canthium inerme is a small to medium-sized tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 meters in height. The plant has a dense, rounded crown with smooth, greyish bark. The leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptic to ovate in shape, with a glossy green appearance. The flowers are small, white to greenish-white, and are borne in clusters. The fruit is a small, black drupe that is edible and often consumed by local wildlife.

Habitat

This species is commonly found in savannas, woodlands, and along riverbanks. It thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of environmental conditions, from dry to moderately moist areas.

Uses

Canthium inerme has several uses in traditional medicine. The leaves, bark, and roots are used to treat various ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and skin infections. The fruit is also consumed for its nutritional value.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Canthium inerme has not been extensively studied, but it is not currently listed as threatened. However, habitat destruction and overharvesting for medicinal purposes could pose future risks to its population.

Related Species

Canthium inerme is part of the genus Canthium, which includes several other species with similar characteristics and uses. Some related species include:

• Canthium coromandelicum
• Canthium suberosum
• Canthium glaucum

See Also

• Rubiaceae
• Savanna
• Traditional medicine