Legumes, Milkworts, and Allies of Zihuatanejo

ORDER FABALES

-Legumes (Family Fabaceae)

-Subfamily Faboideae

-Tribe Amorpheae

-Kidneywoods (Genus Eysenhardtia)

-Mexican Kidneywood (Eysenhardtia polystachya)

Eysenhardtia polystachya is a much-branched, deciduous shrub or small tree usually growing 1.5 - 5 metres tall, occasionally reaching 7 metres. This species has long been highly valued in Mexico for the medicinal properties of its wood, to which is ascribed an almost miraculous ability to cure kidney and bladder ailments. Eysenhardtia polystachya is native to the subtropical and tropical regions of Mexico.

Description

• Eysenhardtia polystachya, commonly known as kidneywood or palo dulce, is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the legume family (Fabaceae). It has finely divided, pinnate leaves composed of numerous small leaflets and produces clusters of small, fragrant, white flowers on elongated flower spikes. Its bark is typically greyish-brown, and its wood is dense and durable. The species has a long history of traditional use in Mexico, particularly involving preparations made from its wood and bark.

Range

• Eysenhardtia polystachya is native to Mexico, where it occurs across several central and northern regions. It is characteristic of seasonally dry environments and is an important component of some Mexican dry forests and scrublands. It is native to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• Palo dulce grows in tropical dry forests, thorn scrub, dry woodland, and rocky hillsides. It tolerates heat, seasonal drought, and relatively poor soils, and is often found in open, sunny locations. Its small leaves and drought-adapted growth habit help it persist through the dry season in warm, semi-arid and subhumid landscapes.