Aspidosperma

/ˌæspɪdoʊˈspɜːrmə/ noun

Definition

A genus of tropical trees native to South America, known for their hard wood and use in traditional medicine.

Etymology

From Greek 'aspis' (shield) + 'sperma' (seed), referring to the shield-shaped appearance of the tree's seeds or seed pods.

Kelly Says

These trees produce a substance called quebracho that was so valuable for tanning leather that entire forests were cleared—it became one of South America's most important export products!

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