Dictyoloma peruvianum Planch., was considered to be a distinct species until 'New Synonyms in Hortia and Dictyloma (Rutaceae), with Validation of the Name Hortia badinii' Groppo M. In Novon 20 pp 163 - 165 was published in 2010, showing it to be synonymous with Dictyoloma vandellianum[].

Common Name:

General Information

Dictyoloma vandellianum is an evergreen shrub or tree with a dense, globose crown; it can grow 2 - 7 metres tall. The short, slightly fluted bole can be 20 - 30cm in diameter[, ].
The tree is harvested from the wild for local use as a soap and source of wood. A natural pioneer, it can be used in planting schemes for restoring native woodland. An elegant and ornamental tree, it can be used in landscaping and is especially suited for planting in streets under power lines[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

S. America - Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador.

Habitat

Atlantic rainforest, usually in the more open and secondary growth areas in Brazil[]. Pastures and thickets, usually in sandy loam soils, in Peru[].

Properties

Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	5.00 m
Growth Rate	Medium
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Prefers a sunny position[]. Tolerant of dry soils[].
Trees have a moderate rate of growth, able to reach a height of around 2 metres within 2 years from seed[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Agroforestry Uses:

A pioneer species that is tolerant of dry soils, it can be used in planting schemes for restoring native woodland[].

Other Uses

The leaves are rich in saponins. They are crushed and used as a soap[].

The wood is a lustrous, pale, yellowish-white colour, it has a faintly pleasant odour and a slightly bitter taste when freshly cut[]. It is straight-grained, fairly fine to medium-textured, moderately heavy, compact, hard to cut but easy to split, durable when kept dry[, ]. It is used in building construction for internal purposes such as ceiling boards, window and door frames and base boards; as well as for tool handles[].
The wood is used for fuel and to make charcoal[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a partially shaded position in a nursery seedbed. A germination rate in excess of 30% can be expected, with the seed sprouting within 20 - 30 days[]. When the seedlings are 4 - 6cm tall, pot them up into individual containers and they should be ready to plant out 6 months later[].

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