Wednesday's Wildflower: Common Torchwood
Amyris elemifera , Common Torchwood By Beryn Harty, Dade Chapter , edited by Valerie Anderson Photo by Beryn Harty, Taken on roadside, Ramrod Key, FL Family Name: Rutaceae Genus/Species: Amyris elemifera Common Name: Common Torchwood (Another common name is Sea Torchwood, which is deceiving because it's salt tolerance is rather low. According to the IRC, " It grows near salt water, but should be protected from direct salt spray by other vegetation." Native Range: Eastern peninsular Florida, the West Indies, Mexico and Central America (Belize) What kind of plant is it? : A flowering tree Any interesting history : Green wood used as torches, twigs are burned as incense. What is the shape, color and size of the flower ?: Clusters of tiny white flowers, new leaf growth often very dark purple What is the typical natural habitat? Hammocks What benefits does it have for wildlife? Provides food and cover for wildlife. Larval host for Bahamian and Schaus Swallowtail...