Commidendrum robustum

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iSt Helena gumwood
Conservation status
Vulnerable (VU)
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Asterales Family: Asteraceae Genus: Commidendrum Species: C. robustum
Binomial name
Commidendrum robustum (Roxb.) DC.

The St Helena gumwood (Commidendrum robustum), although now comparatively rare, was once one of the most abundant trees of mid-elevations of the island of St Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. A small tree to 7-8 m, it was cut extensively for fuel in the early years of settlement of the island by the English East India Company. It has given its name to certain placenames on the island such as "Gumwoods". It is one of several species in the endemic genus Commidendrum.

[edit] See also

Flora of St Helena

[edit] References

• Cronk, Q.C.B. (1995) The endemic Flora of St Helena. Anthony Nelson Ltd, Oswestry.