Blunt folia Maytenus
Maytenus obtusifolia

Family: Celastraceae

What it is like

Maytenus obtusifolia is a large tree growing about 30 m in height and 1 m in trunk diameter. It can be found in South America. The leaves have edible and medicinal uses. It is used as a substitute for China tea and as herbal medicine for ulcers, inflammations, skin conditions, and cancer. The wood is hard, heavy, very strong, but not durable. It is ideal for construction and general carpentry.

Maytenus obtusifolia is an evergreen Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 20 m (65ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 25

Where it is found

Not known

S. America - northern and eastern Brazil.

Conservation Status: This taxon has not yet been assessed

Countries/locations it is found in

Brazil

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

An infusion of the leaves is used as a substitute for China tea (Camellia sinsnsis).

Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.

Medicine

Rating: 4

The leaves are a popular herbal medicine in Brazil, where they are used in the treatment of serious ulcers, general inflammations, cancer and also against external ulcers on the skin. Research has shown that the plant is an effective and safe treatment against ulcers, though the mechanism of action has not yet been determined.

Antiinflammatory: Reduces inflammation of joints, injuries etc.

Cancer: Used in the treatment of cancer.

Other

Rating: 2

Other Uses The heartwood is pale pink to pinky brown, the sapwood is white or gray. The wood is hard, heavy, very strong, easy to work but not durable when in contact with the soil. It is an excellent wood for general construction, and is also used for general carpentry and rural construction work.

Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.

How it is grown

A plant of the tropics, found at elevations up to 1,000 metres.

Propagating it: Seed -

Best place to grow:

Habit: Tree

Hardiness: 10-12

Growth: Medium

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Blunt folia Maytenus

Synonyms

No synonyms are recorded for this name.