Status:
valid
Authors:
Hassk.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1844
Citation Micro:
Cat. Hort. Bot. Bogor. Alt.: 282 (1844)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000199888
Common Names
- Abrus melanospermus
- Black-Seeded Abrus
- Black-Seeded Bean
Synonyms
- Abrus pulchellus melanospermus (Hassk.) Backer [illegitimate]
Description
Abrus melanospermus (also called Black-Seeded Abrus, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree species native to Southeast Asia. It is a small to medium-sized tree, growing up to 5-8 meters in height. It is found in dry sclerophyll forests and woodlands, and along roadsides and disturbed areas.
Uses & Benefits
Abrus melanospermus is a fast-growing tree that is commonly used for firewood, charcoal, and timber. It is also used as a windbreak and for soil conservation.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Abrus melanospermus sub. suffruticosus (Boutique) D.K.Harder
Abrus melanospermus sub. tenuiflorus (Benth.) D.K.Harder
Abrus melanospermus sub. melanospermus
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Abrus melanospermus are small and white. The seeds are small and black. The seedlings are small and have a thin stem.
Cultivation and Propagation
Abrus melanospermus is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that can reach heights of up to 20 m. It is propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil mix and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken from mature branches and planted in a well-drained soil mix. The tree prefers full sun and should be watered regularly.
Where to Find Abrus melanospermus
Abrus melanospermus is native to Southeast Asia and is found in the tropical and subtropical forests of Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Abrus melanospermus FAQ
What is the scientific name of Abrus melanospermus?
Abrus melanospermus
What are the common names of Abrus melanospermus?
Black-seeded Abrus, Black-seeded Licorice
What is the natural habitat of Abrus melanospermus?
Tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests
Species in the Abrus genus
Abrus canescens,
Abrus laevigatus,
Abrus precatorius,
Abrus somalensis,
Abrus wittei,
Abrus bottae,
Abrus baladensis,
Abrus gawenensis,
Abrus aureus,
Abrus madagascariensis,
Abrus parvifolius,
Abrus sambiranensis,
Abrus longibracteatus,
Abrus melanospermus,
Abrus fruticulosus,
Abrus kaokoensis,
Abrus diversifoliolatus,
Species in the Fabaceae family