Red Cabbage Tree

Erythrococca anomala

NAME: Erythrococca anomala

FAMILY: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)

COMMON NAMES: Red Cabbage Tree, Red Erythrococca

LOCAL NAMES: N/A

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Erythrococca anomala is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach a height of about 5-10 meters. It has a dense, bushy growth habit with a short trunk and spreading branches. The leaves are oval-shaped and arranged alternately along the branches. They have a glossy, dark green color with prominent veins. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are usually greenish in color and borne in clusters. The fruit is a round or elongated capsule that turns red when mature.

USEFUL PART(s): Different parts of Erythrococca anomala have various uses.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Traditional Medicine: In certain traditional medicinal systems, various parts of Erythrococca anomala are used for their potential medicinal properties. The bark and leaves are believed to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects and are used to treat skin conditions, gastrointestinal issues, and respiratory problems. However, it's important to note that the plant should be used with caution and under the guidance of a trained herbalist or healthcare professional.

  2. Dye: The bark of Erythrococca anomala contains pigments that can be used to produce a reddish dye. The dye is traditionally used to color fabrics, baskets, and other craft materials.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Erythrococca anomala is native to Madagascar, an island located off the southeastern coast of Africa. It is primarily found in the eastern and northeastern regions of the island, growing in various types of forests and wooded areas.

WHY IS IT GREEN? Erythrococca anomala, like other plants, appears green due to the presence of chlorophyll in its leaves. Chlorophyll is a pigment that captures sunlight during photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue wavelengths of light while reflecting green light, giving plants their characteristic green color.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Erythrococca anomala plays a role in supporting biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various insects, birds, and other wildlife. As a native tree species, its presence contributes to the overall ecological balance of its habitat.

FUN FACT: The red color of the mature fruit of Erythrococca anomala gives rise to its common name "Red Cabbage Tree." The fruit capsules resemble miniature cabbages, adding visual interest to the tree.

Further Reading:

  1. "Pharmacological Properties of Erythrococca anomala: A Review." By S. Rajeev and others.

  2. "Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Skin Disorders in Madagascar." By L. Rasoanaivo and others.

  3. "Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Essential Oils from Erythrococca anomala." By R. Ranarivelo and others.