PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Gmelina arborea
Melina
Roxb. ex Sm., 1810
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A fast-growing, medium-to-large deciduous tree reaching up to 30 meters tall. It features a straight trunk with smooth, light grey-yellow bark, a wide branchy crown, large opposite heart-shaped leaves, and prominent trumpet-shaped yellow-orange flowers that yield fleshy, sweet-scented yellow drupes.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
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Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Lamiales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Lamiaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Gmelina
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Roxb. ex Sm., 1810
Record Completeness
66%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Introduced
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Primary Producer
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Native to tropical semi-evergreen, moist, and dry deciduous forests across Asia. Widely cultivated globally in high-density commercial timber plantations and agroforestry systems within tropical lowlands and valleys below 1,200 meters elevation.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Functions as an aggressive, high-light demanding pioneer species. In areas where it is introduced, it creates rapid canopy cover that stabilizes exposed soils, though its dense seasonal leaf-carpet can suppress native understory flora.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
1500.0 - 3000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Exhibits exceptional, rapid early vegetative growth and high pioneer aggressiveness, allowing seedlings to quickly outcompete surrounding weeds and establish structural canopy dominance in open, sun-exposed sites.
Deploys a drought-evading mechanism by shedding its leaves entirely during prolonged dry seasons, minimizing moisture transpirational loss while maintaining deep root activity.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Susceptibility within homogeneous plantation monopolies to severe fungal pathogens, such as Ceratocystis fimbriata wilt and stem cankers, which can cause large-scale industrial dieback.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Highly esteemed in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine, where formulations derived from its bitter roots and bark are used to treat fevers, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion.