Fagraea Explained

Fagraea is a genus of plants in the family Gentianaceae.[1] It includes trees, shrubs, lianas, and epiphytes. They can be found in forests, swamps, and other habitat in Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, with the center of diversity in Malesia.[2]

Many Fagraea species have a variety of human uses, particularly the wood and flowers. The flowers open in the evening and are often fragrant and bat-pollinated. They are so conspicuous they have roles in Polynesian mythology. They make the trees attractive as ornamental plantings. Some are used in leis. Fagraea auriculata produces a flower over 30 centimeters wide, one of the largest flowers of any plant in the world. Many species, especially the Malesian taxa, have valuable wood. It was used to carve tikis. Some have been used in traditional medicine, perfumery, and aromatherapy. The flowers are featured in the traditional artwork of various cultures.[2]

The fruits are food for many animals, including cassowaries, flying foxes, and civets.[2]

Species

, Plants of the World Online accepts the following 65 species:

Formerly placed here

Notes and References

  1. Backlund, M., et al. (2000). Phylogenetic relationships within the Gentianales based on NDHF and RBCL sequences, with particular reference to the Loganiaceae. American Journal of Botany 87 1029-43.
  2. Motley, T. J. (2004). The ethnobotany of Fagraea Thunb.(Gentianaceae): The timber of Malesia and the scent of Polynesia. Economic Botany 58(3) 396-409.

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