Ilex cymosa explained

Ilex cymosa is a tree in the family Aquifoliaceae, native to Southeast Asia. The specific epithet cymosa refers to the cymous form of the inflorescence.

Description

Ilex cymosa grows up to 30m (100feet) tall. The papery leaves measure up to long. The inflorescences, in cymes, feature green to white flowers. The fruits, initially red, ripen to black.

Distribution and habitat

Ilex cymosa is native to an area from Myanmar in the north; south and east through mainland and maritime Southeast Asia; to the Solomon Islands in the east. The species is found in a variety of habitats including in sandy areas, mangrove forests, swamps and hilly dipterocarp forests.

Uses

Ilex cymosa is harvested for its timber. The tree's roots are locally used for medicinal purposes.