Brimstonetree (Morinda lucida, W.J.Hooker, Niger Fl.: 406 (1849))

Family: Rubiaceae

Author: Benth.

Bibliography: W.J.Hooker, Niger Fl.: 406 (1849)

Year: 1849

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Morinda

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Trop. Africa

Description

The Brimstonetree, scientifically known as Morinda lucida, is a remarkable species within the Rubiaceae family, native to tropical regions of Africa. First documented in W.J. Hooker’s Niger Flora in 1849, Morinda lucida, described by the botanist Benth., embodies the rich biodiversity of its indigenous habitats.

This resilient tree flourishes in a range of tropical environments across Africa, demonstrating the adaptability and enduring nature of its species. The Brimstonetree is often recognized for its distinctive characteristics and the significant roles it plays both ecologically and culturally.

In various traditional practices, Morinda lucida is renowned for its medicinal properties. Indigenous communities have long relied on its leaves, bark, and roots for their therapeutic benefits, employing them in the treatment of numerous ailments. The plant’s extracts are typically used to address disorders such as malaria, hypertension, and diabetes, showcasing its extensive pharmacological utility.

Moreover, the Brimstonetree’s ecological importance cannot be overstated. It contributes to the stability and diversity of tropical African ecosystems, supporting various forms of wildlife and fostering environmental resilience.

In summary, Morinda lucida is a testament to the intricate interplay between nature and traditional knowledge, offering a wealth of benefits that underpin both the ecological health and cultural heritage of tropical African regions. Its enduring presence and multifaceted uses ensure that this species continues to be of great significance to the communities that have long valued its contributions.

Common Names

Eng: brimstonetree, kuhia
En: Brimstonetree, Kuhia

Synonyms

Distribution

• Angola (native)
• Benin (native)
• Cabinda (native)
• Cameroon (native)
• Central African Repu (native)
• Congo (native)
• Gabon (native)
• Ghana (native)
• Guinea (native)
• Guinea-Bissau (native)
• Gulf of Guinea Is. (native)
• Ivory Coast (native)
• Liberia (native)
• Nigeria (native)
• Senegal (native)
• Sierra Leone (native)
• Sudan (native)
• Tanzania (native)
• Togo (native)
• Uganda (native)
• Zaïre (native)

Additional Images

Bark

Taken Apr 4, 2014 by Giacomo Sellan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 4, 2014 by Giacomo Sellan (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 12, 2019 by Gnagbo Anthelme (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5339834)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:756419-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Morinda lucida Benth.)

Specifications

Growth