Hopea wyattsmithii explained

Hopea wyattsmithii is a tree in the family Dipterocarpaceae, native to Borneo. It is named for the botanist John Wyatt-Smith.

Description

Hopea wyattsmithii grows below the forest canopy, up to 25m (82feet) tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 30cm (10inches). It has flying (detached) buttresses and stilt roots. The bark is smooth. The leathery leaves are elliptic to ovate and measure up to 14cm (06inches) long. The inflorescences measure up to 6cm (02inches) long and bear up to six dark red flowers. The nuts are egg-shaped and measure up to 1.2cm (00.5inches) long.

Distribution and habitat

Hopea wyattsmithii is endemic to Borneo. Its habitat is mixed dipterocarp forests, to elevations of 200m (700feet).

Conservation

Hopea wyattsmithii has been assessed as near threatened on the IUCN Red List. It is threatened by conversion of land for plantations and agriculture. In Sarawak, the species is also threatened by the building of a hydroelectric dam. The species is found in some protected areas.