Melanochyla tomentosa
| Melanochyla tomentosa | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Melanochyla |
| Species: | M. tomentosa
|
| Binomial name | |
| Melanochyla tomentosa | |
Melanochyla tomentosa is a flowering plant in the family Anacardiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia.[3]
Description
Melanochyla tomentosa grows as a tree up to 20 m (70 ft) tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 37 cm (15 in). The smooth bark is reddish brown. The leathery leaves are obovate, oblong or elliptic and measure up to 19 cm (7 in) long and to 9 cm (4 in) wide. The inflorescences feature yellow to dark brown flowers. The fruits are smooth and measure up to 3 cm (1.2 in) in diameter.[3]
Taxonomy
Melanochyla tomentosa was first described in 1876 by British botanist Joseph Dalton Hooker in the The Flora of British India.[2] The type specimen was collected in Malacca, Malaysia. The specific epithet tomentosa means 'covered with hairs', referring to the leaves and twigs.[3]
Distribution and habitat
Melanochyla tomentosa is native to Borneo, Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia and Peninsular Thailand. Its habitat is in lowland dipterocarp forests at elevations of 150–250 m (500–800 ft).[1][3]
Conservation
Melanochyla tomentosa has been assessed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Its habitat is threatened by deforestation and by conversion of land for plantations and agriculture. The species is present in at least three protected areas.[1]
References
- ^ a b c de Kok, R. (2023). "Melanochyla tomentosa". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2023: e.T202411947A202740750. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2023-1.RLTS.T202411947A202740750.en. Retrieved 1 August 2025.
- ^ a b "Melanochyla tomentosa Hook.f." Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 1 August 2025.
- ^ a b c d Kochummen, K. M. (1996). "Melanochyla Hook.f.". In Soepadmo, E.; Wong, K. M.; Saw, L. G. (eds.). Tree Flora of Sabah and Sarawak. Vol. 2. Forest Research Institute Malaysia. p. 58. ISBN 983-9592-56-4.