Biology:Eugenia punicifolia

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Short description: Species of plant

Eugenia punicifolia
Scientific classification edit
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Myrtales
Family: Myrtaceae
Genus: Eugenia
Species:
E. punicifolia
Binomial name
Eugenia punicifolia
(Kunth) DC. 1828

Eugenia punicifolia is a species of plant in the family Myrtaceae. It is found in Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.[1][2]

Description

It is a strongly-branched shrub or a small tree that grows predominantly in the wet tropical biome. Eugenia punicifolia is among the most common and widely distributed Myrtaceae species in South America, found across various habitats in both Cuba and South America.[2][3]

It can reach up to 8 meters in height. The leaves are elliptic or obovoid measuring 2–10 cm by 1–6.5 cm. The species produces white fragrant flowers from June to March. The fruits are edible with glossy skin and scarlet red color. The fruits have a sweet but slightly astringent flavor.[4][3]

Uses

The fruits are consumed fresh or used to make juices, ice creams, and jellies. The leaves and bark are used in traditional medicine to treat wounds, diabetes, and fevers. Research has demonstrated that the plant possesses anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective, pain-relieving, blood sugar-lowering, blood pressure-reducing, antioxidant, and antifungal properties.[4][3]

References

  • Data related to Eugenia punicifolia at Wikispecies

Wikidata ☰ Q15364786 entry