Phytolacca dioica L.
Bellaombra
Scientific name: Phytolacca dioica L.
Family: Phytolaccaceae
Origin: South America
Year of planting: Unknown
Flowering: July – August
Phytolacca dioica
Description
It is a large tree, up to 15 metres tall with a large crown. One of the most outstanding characteristics is its tortuous trunk with roots visible at the base.
The leaves are shiny dark green. In wild specimens they are semi-evergreen, but in the garden they are evergreen.
It is a dioecious species: there are male and female specimens. The flowers are borne in clusters (inflorescence), and are very small, creamy white in colour.
The fruits are light brown berries.
Marimurtra’s specimen
This is a large specimen, over 6 metres high and 9 metres wide. It has huge roots protruding from it, with a large trunk and crown.
It can be found along the path of the araucarias.
Did you know?
Its wood contains a large amount of water. For that reason it is a soft wood and spongy, not very resistant and easy to cut. It can be considered a giant grass.
When it is very windy, its branches break off to protect itself from being uprooted.
In other words, it is a wind-resistant species. Its sap is toxic.
Threat level (UICN)
Main uses
Raunkiaer Life Forms
