More than 2200 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico and the surrounding area.
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Borage of Zihuatanejo
ORDER BORAGINALES
Spanish Elm
Cordia alliodora
Flowers by Colour
-Vascular Plants (Phylum Tracheophyta)
-Flowering Plants (Subphylum Angiospermae)
-Borages Order (Boraginales)
-Borage Family (Family Boraginaceae)
-Subfamily Cordioideae
-Spanish Elm (Cordia alliodora)
The Spanish Elm (Cordia alliodora), also known as Salmonwood, Freijo, or Laurel Blanco, is a tropical hardwood tree native to Central and South America, as well as parts of the Caribbean. It is a member of the Boraginaceae family. Flowers: Small, white, and fragrant, arranged in clusters. Timber: Valued for its fine-grained, durable wood, which is used in furniture, cabinetry, veneer, flooring, and musical instruments.
Description
• Cordia alliodora, commonly known as laurel, Spanish elm, or Ecuador laurel, is a medium-sized to large deciduous tree in the borage family (Boraginaceae). It has a straight trunk, a spreading crown, and simple, alternate, rough-textured leaves. Small, fragrant, white flowers grow in branched clusters and attract insects. The fruits are small, rounded drupes enclosed partly by the persistent flower parts. This species is valued for its durable, attractive timber.
Range
• Cordia alliodora is native to tropical America, ranging from Mexico and Central America through the Caribbean and into much of South America. It is widespread in tropical regions and has also been planted beyond its native range for timber and shade. It is native to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.
Habitat
• It grows in tropical dry and moist forests, woodland, forest margins, and secondary growth. It commonly establishes in open areas and disturbed sites, thriving in warm climates with seasonal rainfall. Young trees grow well in sunlight, and the species can become prominent in regenerating forests and agricultural landscapes.
