Melanochyla castaneifolia
| Melanochyla castaneifolia | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Melanochyla |
| Species: | M. castaneifolia
|
| Binomial name | |
| Melanochyla castaneifolia | |
Melanochyla castaneifolia is a flowering plant in the family Anacardiaceae. It is native to Borneo.[3]
Description
Melanochyla castaneifolia grows as a tree up to 24 m (80 ft) tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 30 cm (12 in). The twigs are white to grey. The leathery leaves are oblong, obovate or elliptic and measure up to 14 cm (6 in) long and to 5 cm (2 in) wide. The inflorescences, in panicles, feature yellow flowers.[3]
Taxonomy
Melanochyla castaneifolia was first described in 1978 by Dutch botanist Ding Hou in the journal Blumea.[2] The type specimen was collected in Sarawak in Borneo. The specific epithet castaneifolia means 'chestnut-coloured leaf'.[3]
Distribution and habitat
Melanochyla castaneifolia is endemic to Borneo. Its habitat is in lowland forests to elevations of 350 m (1,000 ft).[1][3]
Conservation
Melanochyla castaneifolia has been assessed as least concern on the IUCN Red List. Its habitat is threatened by deforestation and by conversion of land for plantations and agriculture. However, the species is widespread and thought to be present in numerous protected areas.[1]
References
- ^ a b c de Kok, R. (2024). "Melanochyla castaneifolia". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2024 e.T202410716A202411734. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2024-1.RLTS.T202410716A202411734.en. Retrieved 10 November 2025.
- ^ a b "Melanochyla castaneifolia Ding Hou". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 10 November 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. pp. 53–54. ISBN 983-9592-56-4.