Biology:Myrsine salicina

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Short description: Species of plant

Myrsine salicina
Myrsine salicina 11.JPG
Scientific classification edit
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Ericales
Family: Primulaceae
Genus: Myrsine
Species:
M. salicina
Binomial name
Myrsine salicina
(Hook.f.) Heward ex Hook.f.[1]
Synonyms[1]
  • Rapanea salicina (Hook.f.) Mez
  • Suttonia salicina Hook.f.

Myrsine salicina, synonym Rapanea salicina,[1][2] commonly known as toro,[3] is a species of shrub or small tree native to New Zealand.[1]

Description

Toro grows to 10 metres in height, with a trunk to 60 cm in diameter.[4] It has long oblong shaped leaves that are thick, glossy and leathery. Clusters of small (3 – 5 mm across) cream to pale pink coloured flowers are produced along the branches in spring, followed by single seeded, reddy-orange fruits.[5]

Distribution

This species is found on both the North and South Islands from the North Cape to southern Westland.[4] Its preferred habitat is lowland to montane forest.[4]

Threats

Toro is threatened in areas where the introduced possum occurs, as it is one of their preferred foods.[6]

References

Wikidata ☰ Q6948543 entry