Various publications since the year 2000 have offered different treatments of this genus and the subtribe Espeletiinae to which it belongs. The subtribe has been variousy interpreted as comprising anything from 3 - 8 distinct genera and 90 - 154 species. We are following the proposed treatment by Mauricio Diazgranados [], although some other modern treatments still place this species in the genus Espeletia[].

Common Name: Tabaquero

General Information

Tamania chardonii is an evergreen shrub or small tree producing a crown of leaves at the apex of each branch
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine and source of resin and materials.
Tamania chardonii has a restricted distribution in the Andes of Colombia and Venezuela. There is a continuous decline in the quality and extent of habitat due to the increasing conversion of land to agricultural use. The plant is classified as 'Endangered' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2020)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

Nortwest S. America - Colombia, Venezuela

Habitat

Found in sub-páramo ecosystems and in humid high Andean forest, generally within the forest; at elevations from 2,150 - 2,900 metres[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Endangered
Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Shrub
Height	0.00 m
Pollinators	Bumblebees, Beetles
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Tamania chardonii is a plant of higher elevations in the tropical regions of the Andes, mainly at elevations between metres. The plants are usually found above the tree line in open, windswept regions known as Páramos, where the climate is wet and cool with a relative humidity that can be around 110%. The high elevation means there are high levels of UV radiation and a daily seasonality with night-time temperatures able to fall below zero at any time of the year.
The plant requires an open position in a humus-rich soil that does not dry out and a good supply of clean water. The various species do not generally grow well outside of their native habitat or other similar habitats, though some have occasionally been cultivated successfully at lower elevations or in greenhouses in the temperate zone.

Edible Uses

We have no specific information for this species, but the leaves of most (if not all) members of this genus can be used to make a bitter but tasty, refreshing tea that also has medicinal benefits[]. One medium-sized leaf is washed then boiled vigorously for at least 10 minutes, the liquid is then drunk whilst hot. Cinnamon is also traditionally added for a bit of flavour[].

Medicinal

We have no further specific information for this species, but most (if not all) species in this and several other related genera are used medicinally in the High Andes. In particular, the plant contains essential oils and resin, and an infusion of the leaves is used traditionally to alleviate altitude sickness and aid breathing at higher elevations. It is also used to treat respiratory conditions (including bronchitis, influenza, cough and asthma) and to treat digestive problems[].

Other Uses

Most, if not all, species in this and in several other related genera yield an abundant, aromatic resin. It can be used as an incense, or to extract oil of turpentine, which is used as a solvent for paints and varnishes[].

The leaves make an excellent camping mattress or pillow. Simply harvest dry leaves, evenly pile them, then lie down to compress them a bit. Stuff them inside a plastic bag to make a decent pillow, or heap them under your tent for a little extra comfort in the night[].

The wood is used locally[].

Propagation

Seed -

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