Common Name:

General Information

Memecylon elaeagni is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 8 metres tall[].
The tree is harvested from the wild for local use of its wood.
The species is endemic to the Seychelles, where it is locally abundant and natural regeneration is good in most habitat types. There are no major threats to this plant at the moment, it is therefore classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

Africa - Seychelles.

Habitat

An understorey plant in forests and scrub, also found on exposed, rocky outcrops; mainly at low elevations, but ascending to around 900 metres[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	5.00 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

We have no specific information for this species, but in general the species in this genus succeed in full sun or in partial shade, growing best in a moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil[].
The species has a very high phenotypic plasticity: it is very variable in size and shape of the leaves and flowers due to exposure and altitude. It spreads well after fires. Its fruits are eaten and most probably dispersed by frugivores. Due to its remarkable phenotypic plasticity this species grows in a great variety of habitats with a preference for dry places and glacis habitats[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

The wood is very hard and has traditionally been used for making pestles for the mills of coconut oil[].
We have no more specific information for this species, but in general the wood of Memecylon species is usually white to brown, very dense and heavy, sinking in water. It is also often very durable. Where the wood gets large enough it is often used traditionally for purposes such as poles, house posts, lumber and furniture[].
The wood of many species in the genus has a high calorific value and is often favoured as a fuel and for making charcoal[].

Propagation

Seed -
Air layering

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