Family: Fabaceae
Author: H.Karst.
Bibliography: Fl. Columb. 2: 27 (1862)
Year: 1862
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Haematoxylum
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico to Colombia
Description
Peachwood (Haematoxylum brasiletto)
Peachwood, scientifically known as Haematoxylum brasiletto, is a fascinating plant species belonging to the Fabaceae family. This remarkable plant has garnered attention not only for its botanical characteristics but also for its rich history and wide geographical distribution, ranging from Mexico to Colombia.
The plant was first described in 1862, as recorded in H. Karst.’s authoritative work in the “Flora Colombiana,” where it is detailed under the entry 2: 27. Since its initial documentation, Peachwood has been recognized for its significant ecological and economic contributions.
Characterized by its sturdy and distinctive wood, Haematoxylum brasiletto is primarily noted for its dense heartwood, which exhibits a striking reddish hue. This unique coloration has made it a sought-after material for various applications, including the production of dyes and fine woodworking. Historically, the wood has been utilized in creating natural dyes, known for their deep red and purple shades, which were valued in textile industries for their vivid and lasting colors.
Peachwood thrives in a range of climates found between Mexico and Colombia. Its adaptability allows it to grow in diverse environmental conditions, showcasing the robust nature of the Fabaceae family. The trees are typically found in dry forests and areas with well-drained soils, where they contribute to the local ecosystem by providing habitat and food for various wildlife species.
Despite the commercial exploitation of its wood, efforts have been made to sustainably manage Peachwood populations to prevent overharvesting and ensure the species’ longevity in its native habitats. Conservation measures are essential to maintain the ecological balance and preserve the biodiversity of the regions where Peachwood naturally occurs.
Overall, Haematoxylum brasiletto stands as a testament to the intricate connections between natural resources and human industries, illustrating the importance of sustainable practices in preserving botanical treasures for future generations.
Common Names
Spa: brazilette, palo brasil
Eng: peachwood
En: Peachwood
Es: Brazilette, Palo brasil
Synonyms
- Haematoxylum boreale (S.Watson)
Distribution
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Haiti (introduced)
- Netherlands Antilles (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Mar 13, 2012 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 13, 2012 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 13, 2012 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 13, 2012 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 13, 2012 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Mar 13, 2012 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Aug 1, 2014 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 1, 2014 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 2, 2014 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 2, 2014 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 2, 2014 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Aug 1, 2014 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 2, 2014 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© 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/2950907)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:497227-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Haematoxylum brasiletto H.Karst.)
