Tasmannia

Tasmannia

Tasmannia is a genus of woody, evergreen flowering plants of the family Winteraceae. The genus is named after Robert Brown's benefactor, George Thomas Tasman. The species of Tasmannia are native to Australia, New Guinea, Sulawesi, Borneo, and the Philippines.

Taxonomy

The genus Tasmannia was first described by the French botanist Joseph Dalton Hooker in 1840. The genus includes about 40 species, with the majority being endemic to Australia.

Species

Some of the notable species of Tasmannia include:

• Tasmannia lanceolata (Mountain Pepper)
• Tasmannia stipitata (Dorrigo Pepper)
• Tasmannia insipida (Brush Pepperbush)
• Tasmannia purpurascens (Violet Pepper)

Distribution and habitat

Tasmannia species are found in a variety of habitats, from cool temperate rainforests to dry sclerophyll forests. They are most commonly found in the mountainous regions of southeastern Australia and Tasmania.

Uses

Tasmannia species have a variety of uses. Some species, such as Tasmannia lanceolata, are used as a spice in cooking. The leaves and berries of the plant have a hot, spicy flavor similar to traditional black pepper.

Conservation

Many species of Tasmannia are considered to be at risk due to habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these unique and valuable plants.

See also

• Winteraceae
• Flora of Australia

External links

• Australian Plant Name Index (APNI) - Tasmannia
• Plants of the World Online - Tasmannia