Common Name:

General Information

Andira fraxinifolia is an evergreen tree with a dense, wide, low crown; it can grow 6 - 12 metres tall. The bole is free from buttresses, it can be 30 - 40cm in diameter[, ].
The tree is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine and source of wood. The wood is also traded. A natural pioneer species, it can be used in reforestation projects and, being an ornamental plant, it is suitable for use in general landscaping[, ].
Andira fraxinifolia has a wide range and an apparently stable population. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2012)[].

Known Hazards

Many members of this genus are used medicinally, particularly to treat parasitic and other skin conditions, and to act as a drastic purgative. The powdered wood, bark and seeds are the parts most commonly used. However the medicinal use of these plants needs to be tempered with caution since the active compounds (the alkaloid andirine is most commonly mentioned) are toxic and, in all but small doses, can cause fever, delerium, vomiting and, in extreme cases, death[, ]. Both caster oil (from Ricinus communis) and lemon juice are said to be effective antidotes[].
The smoke from the wood is said to be toxic and to cause blindness if it gets in the eyes[, ].

Botanical References

Range

S. America - eastern and southern Brazil.

Habitat

Atlantic rainforest, mainly in the more open areas and secondary formations, only rarely in dense primary forest[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	9.00 m
Growth Rate	Medium
Pollinators	Bees, Insects
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Grows best in a sunny position[].
Young plants have a moderate rate of growth, able to reach a height of around 2.5 metres within 2 years from seed[].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The powdered bark and wood are used for treating skin ulcers[].

The bark and seed are used as anthelmintics, but care with the dose is essential since they are toxic[].

The active anthelmintic principle in the plant is the non-proteinogenic amino acid N-methyltyrosine (andirine)[].

Agroforestry Uses:

A natural pioneer species, it has a moderate rate of growth, fixes atmospheric nitrogen and is a good food source for the native fauna[]. It can be used in reforestation projects for restoring native woodland[].
The flowers are a good source of nectar for bees[].

Other Uses

The wood is heavy, hard, with good mechanical properties and very durable when kept dry. It is used in construction for purposes such as props, door and window frames; it is also used for outdoor work such as railway sleepers, posts and poles[, ].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe, placing the large seeds in a partially shaded position in individual containers. A germination rate in excess of 80% can be expected if the seed is sown fresh, with the seed sprouting within 15 - 35 days[]. The seedlings develop slowly, but they should be ready to plant out 8 - 9 months later[].

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