Trema orientale

Error creating thumbnail:

Starr 070321-5915 Trema orientalis

Trema orientale

Trema orientale, commonly known as the Charcoal Tree, is a species of flowering plant in the Cannabaceae family. It is native to a wide range of regions including Africa, Asia, and Australia. This plant is known for its rapid growth and ability to thrive in a variety of environmental conditions.

Description

Trema orientale is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 10-20 meters in height. The bark is smooth and greyish-brown, while the leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate to lanceolate in shape. The leaves are typically 5-15 cm long and 2-6 cm wide, with serrated margins and a pointed tip. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green, while the underside is lighter and covered with fine hairs.

Flowers and Fruit

The flowers of Trema orientale are small, greenish-yellow, and arranged in axillary clusters. They are unisexual, with male and female flowers occurring on the same tree. The fruit is a small, drupe-like berry, about 3-5 mm in diameter, which turns black when ripe. The fruit is an important food source for various bird species.

Habitat and Distribution

Trema orientale is found in a variety of habitats, including tropical and subtropical forests, savannas, and disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields. It is highly adaptable and can grow in both dry and moist conditions. The species is widely distributed across Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia and south to South Africa. It is also found in India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and parts of Australia.

Uses

Trema orientale has several uses, both traditional and modern. The wood is lightweight and is often used for making charcoal, hence the common name "Charcoal Tree." The leaves and bark have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and diarrhea. The tree is also used in agroforestry systems for soil improvement and as a shade tree for crops.

Ecological Importance

Trema orientale plays a significant role in its ecosystem. It is a pioneer species, meaning it is one of the first to colonize disturbed or degraded areas, helping to stabilize the soil and create conditions suitable for other species to establish. The tree provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals.

Conservation Status

Trema orientale is not currently listed as a threatened species. Its wide distribution and adaptability to different environments contribute to its resilience. However, habitat destruction and over-exploitation for wood and medicinal purposes could pose future threats.

Gallery

• Trema orientale leaves.jpg

  Leaves of Trema orientale

• Trema orientale flowers.jpg

  Flowers of Trema orientale

• Trema orientale fruit.jpg

  Fruit of Trema orientale

See Also

• Cannabaceae
• Deciduous
• Agroforestry
• Pioneer species