Ehretia cymosa

NAME: Ehretia cymosa

FAMILY: Boraginaceae

COMMON NAMES: Koda Tree, Puzzlebark, Carribean Raintree

LOCAL NAMES: Ajoé (Dominican Republic), Hierba del Espino (Mexico), Cocoon Bush (Jamaica), Canistel (Bahamas)

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Ehretia cymosa is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that can reach heights of up to 12 meters. It has a rounded crown and dense foliage. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and exhibits a distinct puzzle-like pattern, hence the common name "Puzzlebark." The leaves are simple, arranged alternately, and have an elliptical shape with a smooth margin. They are dark green and glossy on the upper surface, while the underside is lighter in color. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are followed by round, orange to red fruits.

USEFUL PART(s): The bark, leaves, and fruits of Ehretia cymosa are utilized for various purposes.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Medicinal Applications: In traditional medicine, the bark and leaves of Ehretia cymosa are used to treat various ailments. The bark is believed to possess antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties and is used to alleviate fever, pain, and inflammation. The leaves are used in remedies for respiratory disorders and gastrointestinal issues.

  2. Timber: The wood of Ehretia cymosa is valued for its durability and strength. It is used in carpentry, construction, and the production of furniture and handicrafts.

  3. Ornamental Plant: Due to its attractive foliage, Ehretia cymosa is often cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Ehretia cymosa is native to various countries in the Caribbean, including the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas. It is also found in Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. The tree prefers tropical and subtropical climates.

WHY IS IT GREEN? Like all plants, Ehretia cymosa appears green due to the presence of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a pigment responsible for capturing light energy from the sun and using it in the process of photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, chlorophyll absorbs sunlight, particularly in the red and blue regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, and utilizes this energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and carbohydrates.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Ehretia cymosa can have a positive impact on the environment as it provides habitat and food for various bird species and pollinators. The tree also contributes to soil stabilization and erosion control.

FUN FACT: The bark of Ehretia cymosa is not only visually intriguing with its puzzle-like pattern but also has a unique characteristic. When the bark is peeled, it emits a distinctive garlic-like odor, which has earned it the local name "Ajoé" in the Dominican Republic.

Further Reading:

  • "A morphological study of Ehretia cymosa Ruiz et Pavón (Boraginaceae) using scanning electron microscopy" by M. R. M. Bizzo