Ecuador has ecosystems unique montanos in the three
regions of the country that include coast, mountains and east. He montane forest or forest cloudy is known by the
presence of a large diversity of flora and fauna native, mostly
endemic In this belt vegetable is half of all flora species
of Ecuador (Webster, 1995), what which is ratified by Jorgensen and León-Yánez (1999), who
show the existence of around 9,865 species of
vascular plants for thisecosystem.
The montane forests in Ecuador are also characterized by the presence of epiphytes
and mosses that grow on the trees. Most species of epiphytes are orchids
(Orchidaceae), which in Ecuador exceeds 4,000 species (J. Del Hierro, pers.
The families Araceae (anthuriums) and Bromeliaceae (huicundos) are also abundant
(Webster, 1995) and provide lodging for a variety of amphibians, reptiles and other insects
like beetles and arachnids.
The montane forests are the key to ensure the water regime of the basins
hydrographic, as they capture 5 to 20% of the normal volume of precipitation.
Another unique feature of these forests is that when they rise in altitude too
increases the diversity of flora (Hamilton, 1995). This phenomenon is especially
clear between the Andean eyebrows, which are remnants of forest located in the area of
transition between the montane evergreen forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes, Evergreen High North Mountain Forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes and the páramo (Ecotono). The so-called "Ecotono" includes more trees
low (dwarf) with thick trunks and less alpha diversity (Jorgensen, 1999); in them
it has been found that they harbor a high level of endemism, as studies to the south
of the Podocarpus National Park (Lozano, et al., 2002).
MONTANO FOREST (General characteristics)
According to Sierra (1999), this is the typical Andean formation, both structural as floristically.
The physical environment is notably different, with temperatures average less than in the
lower parts and a constant fog condensation. HE located on the mountain strip
low, in an altitudinal range approximate that goes from the
1,800 at 3,000 meters above sea level. at north of the foothills
of the Andes, and of 1,500 to 2,900 meters above sea level. In the south. Do not
exists in the mountain ranges of the Coast. In the foothills
Eastern and in the Cordilleras Amazonian, it goes from 2,000 to 2,900 meters above sea level. in the north and from 1,800 to 2,800 msnm in the south.
SPECIES
Family
ActinidiaceaeScientific Name: Saurauia herthae Sleumer
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 22 species; 15 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Name:
Moco, distemper
Botanical description:
Tree 7 to 15 meters high and between 15 to 30 cm in diameter at the base, the trunk
twisted to straight: slightly cracked bark; gray trichomes to rusty brown, leaves
simple pressed behind the end of the bracts; elliptical-oblong sheets to
closely obovate; acute to very short and abruptly acuminate at the apex;
cuneate to thinly cuneate at the base; very rarely oblique; serrated to
the margins; subcoriaceae; green to pale green and rugged in general, flowers of 10
to 18 mm wide; flowers of white petals with pistil and stamens, yellow anthers,
8 mm diameter buttons; Pedicels of 3 mm in length.
Phenology
Flowering and fruiting present throughout the year.
Type of Forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution:
It is found in Ecuador in the montane forests of the provinces of the sierra and
Eastern, western foothills (Imbabura, Morona, Napo, Pastaza, Zamora) a
an elevation above 1450 meters above sea level.
Category
Native of Ecuador
Applications
It has been observed that the fruit serves as food for birds and has also been cited
sometimes as edible. Made of soft wood and unattractive, it
intermingles in the manufacture of charcoal.
Family
AlzateaceaeScientific Name: Alzatea verticillata Ruiz & Pav.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 1 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Arbutus
Botanical description:
Fully glabrous tree, 5 to 20 m tall, bark with laminar exfoliation,
cup generally rounded and dense, whorled branch; twigs
quadrangular reddish brown and exfoliating; simple, opposite, decussate sheets,
obovate-elliptic, from 9-15 by 6-10 cm, apex from rounded to retuse, sessile or
subsessile, coriaceous, glabrous; dark green on the beam and light green on the underside;
inflorescence in terminal panicle up to 25 cm long; flowers with lilac petals
pink; fruit type flattened capsules containing winged seeds, pale green, of 5
to 8 mm long.
Phenology
Flowers are observed between October and December and fruits in February and March.
Type of Forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
2 2
Geographical distribution:
It expands from Costa Rica to all South America, in Ecuador it is registered in Morona and
Zamora
Category
Native
Applications
It is considered ornamental thanks to its flowers. It is made of hard wood, it is presumed to be
used in the manufacture of coal. There are no records of uses in cabinetmaking.
Family
Anacardiaceae
Scientific Name: Mauria heterophylla Kunth.Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 4 species; 1 endemic species is reported.
Synonyms
Mauria puberula Tul., Mauria ovalifolia Turcz.
Vernacular names:
Cirri colorado, yellow cirri
Botanical description:
Small to medium trees, up to 18 m high with 35 cm in diameter; branches and
Leaves with a characteristic smell of mango, new reddish to garnet, unifoliate or
imparipinnate, alternate spirals, grouped at the end of the branches, without stipules;
petiole 2.0-4.0 cm, rachis 2.5-4.0 cm; leaflets 1-5 per leaf, opposite in the spine,
elliptical, 4.0-14.0 cm by 2.0-5.0 cm, base acute to obtuse, apex acuminate or
occasionally rounded, entire border, subcoriaceous consistency; pinnacle nerve
secondary ribs arched and divided before the margin; dark green beam
glossy, underside pale green, glabrous; inflorescences in dense terminal panicles
and / or axillary, 3-30 cm long, purulent. Flowers of white yellowish to creamy,
with 5 petals and 10 stamens; fruits in drupes, from 5 to 13 by 4 to 7 mm, from ovoids to
ellipsoidal, from reddish green to orange when ripe.
Phenology
Presents flowers and fruits throughout the year
2. 3
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution:
Ecuador and Peru between Loja-Gonzanamá and Ayavaca, between 2,400-2,800 meters above sea level.
There are also records in Napo and Morona.
Category
Native
Applications
Wood, medicinal and tannins are used as mordants for tanneries. Is
toxic so you should avoid contact with this species and others of it
family.
Family
AraliaceaeScientific Name: Oreopanax ecuadorensis Seem.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 21 species; 13 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Oreopanax sprucei Seem., Oreopanax serra André, Oreopanax mucronulatus Harms,
Oreopanax schimpffii Harms, Oreopanax puma-maqui Benoist.
Vernacular Names
Pumamaqui
Botanical description
Tree 5 to 15 m high, variable in relation to the morphology of its leaves; by
characteristics of araliaceaeas may possess smooth branches to stellate-tomentose
with linear stipules and attached to the petiole; lobed or whole leaves, alternated
petiole long, present foliar dimorphism according to age the same that goes with
presence of whole lanceolate leaves, in other cases trilobed and when the plant is
most frequently pentalobadas; polygamous flowers dioicas, pentámeras; fruit
with subglobose or ellipsoid berry, small oblong seeds; terminal inflorescence
or subterminal, composed of heads or umbels paniculated or in bouquet,
terminal or subterminal inflorescence, composed of heads or umbels
paniculated or in bouquet.
Phenology
Evergreen tree
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
It is located in the Ecuadorian northern highlands in the Cayambe-Coca ecological reserves and
Cotacachi-Cayapas, and in areas near Sangay National Park, as well as in the
El Ángel ecological reserve, between 2,500-4,000 meters above sea level. Also in the provinces of
Azuay, Bolívar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, Imbabura, Napo, Pichincha and
Tunguragua
Category
Endemic in danger of extinction.
Applications
Its wood is used as fuel as well as for formwork boards, its fruits
They are edible for toucans. In some cases it is used as ornamental.
Family
AraliaceaeScientific name: Schefflera montana (Gleason) Maguire, Steyerm. And Frodin
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 27 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Didymopanax montanum Gleason
Vernacular name:
Cheflera
Botanical description
Perennial trees up to 40 m high in their natural environment, wooden stems
soft, glabrous branches or with simple trichome, starry or dendritic,
alternate leaves, rarely opposite or whorled, simple and often lobed or
2 6
palmatilobuladas, or pinnate, bipinnate or palmaticompuestas, glabrous or a
often with an array of starry hairs; stipules almost joined to the base of the petiole
and scarcely distinguishing itself from it, sometimes forming a leathery ligule
envainante, trinervada, entire margin, serrated, serrated or sometimes lobed, petioles
generally long and unequal, actinomorphic flowers, perfect or imperfect dioceses,
small, greenish and whitish, perianth with small calyx, petals 3 to 12, so
general 5, valvated or lightly imbricated, free or fused, androceo presents
stamens generally 5, free, alternating with the petals, inflorescences
compound or simple, racemose, umbeladas or capitadas, terminal or axillary, fruit
drupe, less frequent in the form of berries.
Phenology
Flowering continues with synchronous activity for eleven months of each year and with
crops from low to medium production.
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
Native to tropical America, to the southeast of Brazil and Bolivia. In Ecuador in the
Eastern provinces and their foothills Zamora, Morona, Napo.
Category
Native of Ecuador
Applications
Its wood is soft and is used in formwork, it can be considered in programs of
reforestation and recovery of degraded areas as a pioneer.
Family
ArecaceaeScientific name: Ceroxylon alpinum Bonpl. ex DC
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 7 species; 4 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Palma de cera
Botanical description
Solitary, dioic palms; stem 8-21 m tall, solitary, 19-30 cm diameter,
internodes covered with thin layers of wax, white at the base, gray to brown
towards the smooth single circular apex, lanceolate pinnate leaves; leaves 17-20 (-25) in one
hemispheric crown, petiole (10-) 20-30 cm long, 4.5 to 7.0 cm wide apical,
concave flattened surface, sharp margins, glabrescent, convex surface
abbey, densely covered with thick deciduous leaves or their broken bases,
more persistent clothing towards the margins, flattened, surface covered with
an attire similar to the petiole, the central nerve covered with a row of
deciduous translucent scales, rarely join along the margins, flowers
solitary unisexuals along the ruts; small light yellow
when young, with short peduncles rounded by a fleshy bract of
acute to acuminate form, male flowers are 8 to 9 mm in length, possess
sepals ovate acuminate and elliptic petals acuminate, they have 12 to 17 stamens,
Female flowers are between 7 and 8 mm in length, interfoliar inflorescence, fruits
red to orange, smooth or warty; sheath 75 to 125 cm long, thickly
covered with a thick tomento, eventually deciduous with white scales;
each fruit has a single globose seed.
Phenology
The first flowering occurs during the months of March and April and the second between
August and September, coinciding in both cases with the end of the periods of
less precipitation in the year, there are abundant green fruits since the month of
June to January.
Type of Forests
Evergreen montane forest of the Western Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen high northern montane of the Western Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
Distributed in the Andes from Venezuela to Bolivia at an altitudinal range that
It ranges between 1,800-4,000 meters. In Ecuador it is reported in the provinces of El Oro and
Pichincha
Category
Native
Applications
Obtaining vegetable, environmental wax for providing shelter and food to the fauna
of its environment, making ornaments, bouquets for the Easter season, also
considered as ornamental.
Family
BetulaceaeScientific name: Alnus acuminata Kunth.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 1 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Aliso
Botanical description
Medium tree (10-25 m), 20 - 70 cm in diameter; It has a straight shaft and a
scaly outer bark, with protruding and elongated lenticels, of 1
cm in length, and a pink or cream inner bark; simple and alternate sheets
oblong to ovate, 7 cm to 9 cm in length and 5 cm to 7 cm in width, border
aceré with very straight nerves and printed on the upper face, flowers grouped by
separated according to sex, very small and numerous male flowers, of a few
millimeters in length, grouped in pendulous catkins or hanging spikes; fruits
grouped in oblong infrutescences, with the appearance of cones, flattened, winged and very
small, from 2 mm to 4 mm in length.
Phenology
Flowering is observed from September to October and with ripe fruits in January-February,
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Peru and
Venezuela. In Ecuador between 2,000 and 3,800 meters, it is registered in the provinces
from Azuay, Cañar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Imbabura, Loja, Morona, Napo, Pichincha and
Tungurahua
Category
Native
Medicinal as a healing and diuretic to treat rheumatism, arthritis and colds.
Timber, leather tannery, dyed for cotton and wool; used in programs
silvopastoriles due to its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil and fertilize it.
Family
Bignoniaceae
Scientific name: Jacaranda mimosifolia D. DonNumber of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 5 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Jacaranda, jacaranda, arabisco
Botanical description
Subtropical tree 8-12 m high; cup without uniform, ovoid and irregular shape; from
main branch extended, with a diameter of 4 to 6 m; main trunk twisted
from 6 to 9 m and a diameter of 40 to 70 cm; large leaves, 30 to 50 cm long,
compound, opposite, bipinnate, with leaflets and pairs of small leaflets
oval-oblong, apiculated, upper face of the leaf is dark green, the face
pale bottom; flowers, from 4 to 5 cm, grouped in erect terminal panicles, from 20 to
30 cm violet blue, corolla with very twisted tube and 5 petals welded,
lobes unequal and organized in 2 lips, one with 2 upper lobes and the lower one with 3,
androceo possesses the longest of the 5 sterile stamens and 2 of the fertile ones are more
long than the two remaining, pistil long, pubescent whitish.
Phenology
It blooms abundantly in May-June, and sometimes it has a scarcer flowering in the
In September and October, frost harms younger trees.
Type of Forests
Low montane evergreen forest of the Western Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
South America; Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil and very common in the northeast of Argentina. In
Ecuador is registered in the provinces of Loja, Azuay, Chimborazo on the 1,800 -
2,500 meters above sea level
Category
Native
Ornamental, it is also used as an alignment tree in isolation or
forming groups. Its aromatic wood is appreciated in cabinetmaking and carpentry
to make laminates.
Family
BuddlejaceaeScientific name: Buddleja incana Ruiz & Pav.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 14 species; 5 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Quishuar
Botanical description
Tree, of small to medium size, from 3 m to 12 m in height and 20 cm to 50 cm from
diameter, with the trunk often robust up to 8 m in height, straight shaft, cup
broad, irregular, sparse, outer bark is cracked and ash brown,
cream-colored inner bark, simple, opposite, long and lanceolate leaves
12 to 15 cm long and 2 to 3 cm wide, are thick, with the underside
densely covered with tiny hairs that give it a white color and an aspect
plush and soft to the touch, dark green in the beam, with veins strongly
printed, has the finely jagged edge, small flowers, approximately 5
mm in length and are grouped in small clusters of many flowers, petals
orange to yellow and form a short tube, with 4 stamens and a pistil,
inflorescence in peaks of terminal heads, small fruits, ovoid in shape
of cylindrical capsules of about 5 mm to 6 mm in length, open in two parts and
They contain numerous seeds.
Phenology
Flowering between January and July, fructification of March-August, dissemination of July August.
Type of Forests
Low montane evergreen forest of the Western Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Western Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Western Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
Upper part of the Andes, within the area of Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. This species
develops between 2,300 and 3,400 (3,500) msnm. Considered as a species
characteristic and constitutive of the forest formation of the Andean Eyebrow (> 3,200 meters above sea level).
In Ecuador it is registered in Loja, Azuay, Cañar, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi and Pichincha.
Category
Native
Applications
Considered as timber and for carving. It is used to make coal. Leaves
in infusion they are used in cases of postpartum treatments, rheumatism and rashes.
Family
Cecropiaceae
Scientific name: Cecropia andina Cuatrec.Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 28 species; 5 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Guarumo
Botanical description
Tree up to 15 meters and 25 cm in diameter, sometimes with roots waders; the part
upper trunk and frequently hollow branches with septa
transverse, usually few primary branches and often forming a cup
open with candlestick appearance, smooth bark and very pale gray, stipules
very large, completely united and seemingly solitary, hugging the stem and
leaving a circular scar when they fall, leaves arranged in spiral, simple,
petioles long and frequently provided with triquiles in the base, lamina usually
peltated eccentrically, with shallow radial incisions to more or less
deep, radial main ribs, sub-parallel tertials; inflorescences
arranged in pairs in the axils of the leaves, each inflorescence composed of
tiny flowers 1 mm long, densely packed in few or many
spikes, covered by a deciduous spathe, without interfloral bracts; male flowers
with thickened tubular perianth, divided transversely at the apex, anthers 2,
exsertas in individual form, female flowers with tubular perianth divided near the
apex, stigma with tiny fimbrias, basal ovum in the locule; fruit in the form of a
Achene small glabrous.
Phenology
Fruiting has been observed in the terminal months of the year from September to January
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
Native to the Neotropical regions, it extends over the Andes of Colombia and
Ecuador in the provinces of Napo, Tungurahua and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
Feeding for animals. Timber, is used mainly to make mangoes
tools, and musical instruments such as flutes and guitars.
Family
Chloranthaceae
Scientific name: Hedyosmum racemosum (Ruiz & Pav.) G. DonNumber of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 16 species; 1 endemic species is reported.
Synonyms
Tafalla racemosa Ruiz & Pav.
Vernacular Names
Granizo
Botanical description
Trees up to 15 m, aromatic, dioic or rarely monoecious; white wood and
soft; opposite leaves, simple, dentate margin, pinnate venation, bases of the
expanded petioles forming a pod around the stem; male spikes
solitary or gathered in clusters or panicles of 60-200 flowers; male flowers, a
solitary ditecal stamen, quadrangular, without filament, female spikes, solitary,
in tops, tirsos or panicles; succulent floral bracts, partially or totally
wrapping the flower, female flowers generally 2-15 gathered in cows,
perianth adnate to the ovary with 3 free segments, partially or totally fused in the
top of the ovary; ovarian 1-carpelar, 1-locular, 1 pendulum ovule, short or absent style and
papillose stigma, drupes embedded in a matrix of bracts.
Phenology
Flowers observed in January, from July to October and in December, are in
regions that are often under the influence of fog or, in drier areas, at
side of the water courses.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
The genus is distributed from southern Mexico to Bolivia, including
Antilles In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Cañar, Carchi, Loja, Pichincha,
Zamora, Morona, Napo, Pastaza and Sucumbíos.
Category
Native to the Andes
Leaves with various medicinal uses as toning, stimulants, antidiarrheals; the
infusion of its leaves is also used to give an aniseed flavor to liquors, in addition
It is a species reported as fenceposts, timber and firewood.
Family
Clethraceae
Scientific name: Clethra fimbriata Kunth.Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 10 species; 2 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Almizcle
Botanical description
Evergreen trees up to 15 m tall; bark that comes off in scales;
simple, alternate, elliptical sheets, up to 14 cm long x 6 cm wide, margin
sawed, dark green, lower brown, pubescent, denser throughout
the nerves; inflorescences in the form of bunches about 10 cm long; Flowers of
cream colored about 8 mm in diameter; fruits in the form of round capsules with 3
cavities that open by themselves to release the seeds, measure about 5 mm
diameter.
Phenology
Fructification and flowering present throughout the year.
Type of forest:
Low montane evergreen forest of the Western Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Western Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
Native species of the Andes between 2,000 and 3,600 meters above sea level. In Ecuador in the
provinces of Loja, Azuay, Cañar and Pichincha.
Category
Native
Applications
Wood used as firewood and for charcoal making. The wood can be
used in carpentry and joinery.
Family
ClusiaceaeScientific name: Clusia alata Planch. And Triana
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 63 species; 5 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Duco
Botanical description
Tree 10 m high; thick and crooked stems; aerial roots hanging from the
branches to take root in the ground; knotty branches with edges; simple fleshy leaves,
Opposite ovate-cuneate, rounded at tip of varying size 12.5 to 20 cm
long by 9.3 to 12.5 cm wide; terminal inflorescences, female flowers and
male in separate individuals of regular size pale pink; fruits of
oval, fleshy and large.
Phenology
Presence of flowers and fruits throughout the year
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
Costa Rica to Peru, from 1,000 to 3,500 meters above sea level. In Ecuador in the provinces of
El Oro, Zamora, Loja and Pichincha.
Category
Native
Applications
Timber, its stems produce an aromatic resin used to treat the pain of
head, its leaves, like those of almost all Clusias, are detersic (purify). HE
use for the elaboration of handmade baskets using their roots; and has a use
for the reforestation of watersheds
Family
CunnoniaceaeScientific name: Weinmannia elliptica Kunth.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 26 species; 2 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Encenillo, Cashco
Botanical description
Tree that reaches up to 25 meters high, its trunk can reach 70 centimeters
in diameter, its bark is smooth and gray, its cup has the shape of a parasol and is
dark green and light green when there are fruits, composite leaves
opposite are about 3.8 centimeters long, have winged rachis,
presents between five and eight pairs of leaflets and ends in one (odd-numbered), they are
slightly pubescent and end in roma point; small flowers of white color and
they are grouped into terminal inflorescences in the form of clusters that measure
approximately 7 centimeters long; fruits in the form of capsules that open
by itself in two valúas, has elliptical shape are brown and have few
seeds.
Phenology
Flowering from August to November, fructification from October to January.
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
It is located in the Andes of South America, in Venezuela, Colombia,
Bolivia, Peru and Ecuador in the provinces of Loja and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
Wood used as firewood, charcoal is also obtained from it,
posts for fences, is used in construction for example to make beams and boards.
Medicinal, the drink of the cooking of its leaves and bark serves to relieve fever of the
won.
Family
CunnoniaceaeScientific Name: Weinmannia cochensis Hieron.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 26 species; 2 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Weinmannia microphylla Kunth hom.illeg., Weinmannia brachystachya Willd. former. Engl. hom
illeg., Weinmannia brachystachya Willd. ex Pamp.
Vernacular Name:
Encino rosado o colorado, Cashco.
Botanical description
Small tree up to 5-10 m, opposite and decussate leaves; pinnaticcompuestas or
trifoliolated or simple; crenate or sawn margin; rachis frequently winged;
present or deciduous stipules; terminal or axillary clusters with 3-5 flowers in
fascicles, perfect flowers; sepals 4 (-5); imbricate petals 4 (-5); free; oblong
inconspicuous; white or pink; stamens (7-) 8 (-10), glabrous or hairy disc; ovary
super bicarpelar; bilocular, fruit a septicidal capsule.
Phenology:
Annual flowering
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
It extends from southern Mexico to Chile and Argentina. In Ecuador they are
in the provinces of Loja, Azuay, Cañar, Imbabura, Zamora, Morona and Napo.
Category:
Native
Applications
Because of the characteristics of the wood, it is used in carpentry, as well as for
manufacture of boards and beams; firewood and coal processing. The presence is known
of tannins and emollients used in the tanning industry
Family
CyatheaceaeScientific Name: Cyathea caracasana (Klotzsch) Domin
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 46 species; 6 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Alsophila caracasana Klotzsch, Alsophila chimborazeinsis Hook., Cyathea meridensis H.
Karst., Cyathea fulva Sodiro hom. illeg., Hemitelia crenata Sodiro, Cyathea parvifolia
Sodiro, Cyathea mexicana var. boliviensisRosenst.
Vernacular name:
Helecho arbóreo
Botanical description
Tree, reaches 12 m in height and 20 cm in diameter, its trunk has scars
resulting from the fall of its leaves, the foliage is grouped at the end of the trunk in
shape of flattened rosettes; Leaves or fronds 3 to 4 m long by 1 m or more
wide, twice divided (bipinnate), light green, dark brown petiole with
thorns, soros (grouping of sporangia containing spores on the underside of the leaf)
Rounded brown, covered by a round membrane.
Phenology
Presents reproduction during any month of the year.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
It is found in the Andean and Amazonian region. In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces
from Azuay, Bolívar, Carchi, El Oro, Morona, Loja, Napo, Pichincha, Sucumbíos and Zamora,
at an elevation of 500-2,800 meters above sea level.
Category
Native
Applications
Environmental (a pioneer species in the regeneration of secondary montane forests),
also used as ornamentals in sidewalks and gardens.
Family
ElaeocarpaceaeScientific name: Vallea stipularis L. f.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 2 species; 1 endemic species is reported.
Synonyms
Vallea cordifolia Ruiz & Pav., Vallea pubescens Kunth, Vallea cernua Turcz., Vallea macrophylla
Turcz., Vallea ovata Turcz., Vallea pyrifolia Turcz., Vallea glabra Miers, Vallea schlimii Turcz.
Vernacular Names
sacha capulí, calendula, palo rosa
Botanical description
Small tree that reaches a maximum of 12 m. of approximately height; stem
curved woody coffee whose branching starts at 1.5 to 2 m; simple sheets
alternate, helical, heart-shaped bright green in the beam and white by the
lower with long and curved petioles, basally 5-nerved, with pubescence in the
basal axils; flowers of pink petals grouped; whitish green fruit, in
rounded capsule, with granules on the surface and four seeds.
Phenology
Once a year, change of foliage, remaining with very few leaves during a brief period
period where it presents an autumnal aspect, with the old leaves of reddish color, little
after the new leaves emerge, the rake produces pink flowers cover the
tree once a year, from April to June.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
Andes from Venezuela to northern Argentina. In Ecuador from 2,200 up
4,000 meters above sea level, in the provinces of Loja, Azuay, Bolívar, Cañar, Carchi, Chimborazo,
Cotopaxi, Morona, Napo, Pichincha, Sucumbíos and Tungurahua.
Category
Native to the Andes
Applications
With the wood, tools of farming, handicrafts and for the construction are elaborated
of corral poles and houses. It is used as fuel to make coal. The
flower is used to treat affections of the nerves and leaves for inflammation. Is a
potentially regenerating species of burned sites.
Family
EuphorbiaceaeScientific name: Alchornea glandulosa Poepp. & Endl.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 11 species; 2 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Porotillo, Cantza
Botanical description
Tree, dioic, twisted 10-20 m high, minutely applied-starred, without
latex; evergreen, alternate, simple, pinnatinervias or palmatinervias leaves,
frequently glandular; stipulated; inflorescences in spiciform clusters,
axillary or cauliflorous, simple or compound, eglandular bracts; small flowers
apply them; with a tendency to reduce the number of pieces, unisexual
actinomorphs, staminated with calyx separating in the anthesis in 2-5-wolf vaults,
central disc, confluent with the bases of the stamens, these generally 8,
filaments shorter than anthers, absent pistilodium; pistil-like flowers sessile or
shortly pedicelled, sepals 4, imbricate, obsolete disc, 2-locular ovary, 1
ovule by locule, free styles, elongated, not lobed; capsular fruit with seeds
tuberculated, ecarunculated, the seeds protrude from an aril on the tip of the fruit,
When it reaches maturity, the seminal cover turns bright red.
Phenology
Flowers and fruits observed throughout the year.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
South America (Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela) and in America
Central (Costa Rica and Panama). In Ecuador in the provinces of Bolívar, Morona, Napo,
Pastaza, Pichincha, Tungurahua and Zamora.
Category
Native
Timber, useful as a honey plant, its leaves contain medical compounds from
interest, helps treat skin, diarrhea, inflammation, leprosy and rheumatism.
Family
EuphorbiaceaeScientific name: Hieronyma asperifolia Pax and K. Hoffm.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 10 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Hieronyma sararita Cuatrec.
Vernacular Names
Motilón, Mote.
Botanical description
Tree up to 12 m, presents yellow lepidoto hairs; simple sheets
coriaceous with ribbed arches towards the margin; axillary panicles with one
bractéola holding each flower; inconspicuous flowers, apétalas; male flowers with
campanulate calyx with 5 lobes; free disc glands, opposite the lobes and
alternating with 5 stamens, free filaments, exsertos of perianth, anthems ditecas
with dehiscence through basal pores, wide connective; female flowers with similar calyx
to the masculine, inconspicuous disc glands, bilocular ovary, very short style,
bifid; druceous fruit.
Phenology
Flowering phase is presented in the month of November
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes, low and montane forest
Geographical distribution
Native to Ecuador, it is registered in the provinces of Bolívar, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi,
Imbabura, Napo and Pichincha.
Category
Native
Applications
Timber for construction, farming tools, decking of floors and
furniture; It serves for shade and is preferred to have it from boundaries and near the houses
peasants. It is considered a tintoria species that contains its fruits, that also
They are edible.
Family
FabaceaeScientific name: Erythrina edulis Triana ex Micheli
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 12 species; 4 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Erythrina esculenta Sprague
Vernacular Names
Guato, porotón
Botanical description
Tree that can reach up to 25 m in height; 7 m of foliage diameter and up to 50
cm of trunk diameter with thorny, pubescent branches; compound sheets,
alternate pinnacles with three leaflets, the terminal larger than the lateral ones, deciduous
in the flowering branches; inflorescences with 2 or 3 terminal or axillary clusters
long pedunculated 30-45 cm long; with presence of red flowers
orange, sub-woody dark brown pods 8 to 30 cm long, with
shallow constrictions, fruit known as giant bean, from 2 to 7 cm
long, 1.5 to 3 cm wide and 3 cm thick.
Phenology
Seeds germinate and emerge between 5-12 days after sowing and flowering
start between 24-30 months later (Jensen, 1988)
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
Originating in the tropical Andes, it develops over 1,500 -2,900 meters above sea level. In
Ecuador is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Cañar, Carchi, Chimborazo,
Cotopaxi, Imbabura, Loja, Napo, Pichincha, Sucumbios, Tungurahua and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
Food, suitable for industrial handling in the production of flours, fried,
pickles, stews and concentrates, used in traditional medicine as regulator of
kidney function, hypotonic and against osteoporosis.
Family
SalicaceaeScientific name: Abatia parviflora Ruiz & Pav.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 2 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Abatia verbascifolia Kunth
Vernacular names:
candellillo
Botanical description
Heliophilic tree up to 20 m tall, maximum trunk diameter 40 cm; has a
globose little broad cup; simple and opposite leaves (> 15 cm long), lanceolate,
tomentose and whitish on the bottom; colorful yellowish flowers
intense arranged in long spikes that protrude over the foliage of the tree;
tiny seeds.
Phenology
Flowering in button occurs in the months of May and June with medium intensity,
repeating in the month of January, mature fruiting in general, occurs
throughout the year but in some months with supremely low intensity,
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution:
Central America (mountains of Costa Rica) and South America (Colombia, Ecuador and Peru),
between 2,000 and 3,200 meters above sea level. In Ecuador, it is registered in Azuay, Bolívar, Cañar,
Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, Imbabura, Loja, Morona, Napo, Pichincha and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
The stem is used as scissors and pillars in the construction of houses. Is used to
make charcoal
Family
JuglandaceaeScientific name: Juglans neotropica Diels.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 1 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Nogal
Botanical description
Slow growing monoecious tree up to 40 m high and 80 cm DAP; Cortex,
red brown, oval canopio; straight shaft, cylindrical, free of branches up to 50% of its
height; Irregular crown 6 m wide and ferruginous foliage; dark gray bark,
roughly cracked longitudinally; compound, alternate, pinnate leaves, from 25 to 40
cm long, without stipules, with 9 to 17 lanceolate leaflets 6 to 10 cm long and 2.5 a
4 cm wide, serrated edge, acuminate apex, glabrous dark green beam and underside
pubescent green; male flowers arranged in pendulous catkins, stamens
Numerous female ovarian ovarian flowers with an ovum are found in
ends of new branches in groups of four to nine; fruit type drupe color
brown to black.
Phenology
The fruits are collected unevenly in January, from June to August and from
October to December, when these turn to a dark brown color.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
Distributed in the wild in the Neotropical region, between 1,400-2,700 meters above sea level. In
Ecuador is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Chimborazo, Loja, Napo,
Pichincha and Tungurahua.
Category
Native
Applications
Timber, dyed fabrics and hair by using a dark liquid that releases the
pulp of the ripe fruit. Medicinal (astringent, antidiarrheal, depurative and
expectorant), food and ornamental.
Family
LauraceaeScientific name: Nectandra laurel Nees
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 36 species; 6 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
White cane
Botanical description
Tree up to 40 m in height and diameters up to 100 cm, straight and cylindrical trunk,
with abutments of 1 to 2 m, tabular and flat, from 5 to 8 per trunk, dense glass
rounded, ascending branches; scaly bark, dark brown to black, presents
irregular and granular scales and protruding marks on the stem; green branches
grayish with pale bump marks; simple dark green and shiny leaves
they are distributed in spiral of 11 to 30 cm in length and between 4 to 10 cm in width, margin
smooth or whole, terminal part pointed acute; very marked rib on the underside,
they have a strong avocado odor when ground or squeezed with their hands; young leaves
pink to reddish color; flowers in clusters of 15 to 25 cm long, very small,
smaller than 1 cm in diameter, pink star shape and perfumed; fruits
globose with an average of 3 cm long and 2 to 2.5 cm wide, rough surface
dark purple and bright with a red cup that contains the globose fruit, fruit
edible flavor similar to avocado, fleshy interior yellowish green and
sweet taste; ovoid seed 18 to 25 mm long, greenish-brown color.
Phenology
Flowering phase is presented in the month of November
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
South of Mexico to Honduras, In Ecuador from 1,800 to 2,500 meters above sea level. in
the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Loja, Napo and Pichincha.
Category
Native to the Andes
Applications
Maderable used in construction of houses, very appreciated for the duration of its
wood and the light yellow color of it, it is also used in the preparation of
furniture. Like incorruptible posts for fences.
Family
Lauraceae
Scientific name: Ocotea benthamiana MezNumber of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 48 species; 6 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Nectandra crassifolia Benth.
Vernacular Names
Canelo negro, Urcu caspi, cannelloni, aguacatillo
Botanical description
Tree 25-35 m high; simple alternating leaves, perennial and lauroid, green
dark bright to brown; adventitious root; flowers in clusters; fruit type globose berry
3-5 cm long, hard and fleshy, covered by a cup-shaped dome in the union
of the peduncle with the fruit; seed wrapped in a hard layer slightly lignified.
Phenology
The first anthesis occurs in the afternoon when the gynoecium is mature and the anthers
They are still closed. The second anthesis occurs two or three days later, in the morning
when the anthers mature and pollen is released.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
It lives in the High Andes, in the mountains, cloud forests, between 2,000 and 3,000
msnm. In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Carchi, Morona, Pichincha and Zamora.
Category
Endemic to Ecuador; vulnerable
Applications
Production of essential oils, production of aromatic species for
gastronomy, and the characteristics of its wood used in the construction of houses and
furniture.
Family
Lauracea
Scientific name: Persea ferruginea Kunth.Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 15 species; 6 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Aguacatillo, canelo
Botanical description
Extremely vigorous tree (powerful trunk with vigorous ramifications), can
reach up to 20-30 m in height and 40 cm in DAP; evergreen; simple leaves alternate
and perennial, pedunculated, very bright; perfect flowers in sub terminal clusters;
fruit type drupe yellow-green or reddish brown, large, usually in
pear shape, sometimes ovoid or globose, 8-18 cm with corky epicarp or more
less tuberculated, and meaty and edible mesocarp.
Phenology
Flowering peculiar, each flower opens in two distinct and separate moments, that is to say
Female and male organs are functional at different times, which avoids
self-fertilization, the flowering state summarizes the dicógamo process in 3 sub-states
and the first closing in the feminine stage, and 5 substates and the final closure in the stage
masculine
Type of forest:
Low montane evergreen forest of the Western Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Western Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
Widely extended from Mexico to Brazil and northern Argentina. In Ecuador
it is registered in the provinces of Azuay and Loja.
Category
Native
Used in the manufacture of furniture and house construction, as well as for
manufacture of farming tools, poles and for the manufacture of charcoal
and firewood.
Family
MelastomataceaeScientific name: Graffenrieda harlingii Wurdack
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 11 species; 2 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Mountain range
Botanical description
Trees or shrubs; with glabrous or decidedly hairy twigs; simple sheets
decussed opposites; flowers 4-6 (8) -meras, in multi-purpose terminal panicles, hypanthium
campanulate, ridge or terete on the fruit, chalice fused on the button, petals
narrow to broadly elliptic, acute apex or long acuminate, stamens
isomorphs, glabrous; linear-subulate and arched anthers with a truncated apical pore
or variedly inclined, the connective slightly or only a little prolonged by
under teak and modified dorsi-basally on a sharp spur, ovary superior
or partially inferior, 3-5 (-7) -locular, apical stylar collar well developed or absent;
capsule fruit, included within the fruiting or long-emerging hypanthropus;
linear-pyramidal seeds, slightly angled or attenuated at both ends.
Phenology
No phenological studies associated with the species are recorded.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
It extends in the Andean mountainous areas, grows at an altitude of 2,000 to 3,000
msnm. In Ecuador, it is registered in the provinces of Loja and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
Maderable (wood production), for its rapid growth could be used as
pioneer for the restoration of slopes.
Family
MelastomataceaeScientific name: Miconia asperrima Triana
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 240 species; 97 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Flower of May, Colca, Mora.
Botanical description
Tree, 10 to 12 m high; fast growth, short life up to approx. 10 years;
straight trunk, simple opposite leaves in the shape of a decussate cross, oval with
tip termination, protruding ridges, white furry edge and surface;
petiole green reddish; small flowers up to 5 mm in size, white, flowers 4-5 (-
9) -mericas, hipanto usually terete, chalice regularly lobed, persistent in the
fruit, petals white, pink or yellow, small, round to retuse at the apex,
isomorphic or anisomorphic stamens, simple connective or with appendages, some
sometimes prolonged, anthers opening by 1, 2 or 4 terminal pores, ovary semi a
completely 2-8 locular; fruit bacado, presents many seeds
pyramidal to ovoid, reddish black.
Phenology
Tree presents flowering in the months of October and December
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution:
South America, in the Andean region of Ecuador, Colombia and Peru. In Ecuador, it is in
provinces Loja, Morona and Zamora, at an elevation of 1,500-2,500 m.
Applications
Timber (construction and firewood), food (edible fruit), it is used in the
dye production.
Family
Meliaceae
Scientific name: Cedrela montana Moritz ex Turcz.Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 4 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Cedar, Andean cedar, red cedar.
Botanical description
Tree, of slow growth that reaches 25-35 m of height with diameters of up to 60 -
100 cm; Composite leaves up to 1 m, odd-pointed, lenticulate petioles, leaves
between 20 - 55 cm in length, with 8 - 13 pairs of opposite pinnae, subopposed, in
alternate occasions ovate - elliptic to ovate - oblong, acuminate apex, base
rounded to cordiform, sometimes unequal and with entire margins, lenticelous rachis
13 - 48 cm long, petiole bulging basally. Terminal inflorescences or
Subterminals Thysoid, lenticellate, glabrous or with mild scattered pubescence; flowers
unisexual white-yellow; small terminal flowers, irregular and lobed calyx;
Fruit in the form of woody capsule, lenticelled, dehiscent and brown, I posseé an sapwood
orange-gray color and light reddish orange heartwood, with characteristic odor
to the presence of oils and resins.
Phenology
It has a flowering period a year, which starts in the month of June and extends
until November, in other places it is presented from September to December. The duration
This phenofase is mainly due to the fact that not all trees bloom at the same time
weather. The flowers appear during the rainy season.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
In Ecuador it develops from 1,500 to 3,000 meters above sea level. In Ecuador, registration
in the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Imbabura, Loja, Napo,
Pichincha and Tungurahua.
Category
Native
Applications
Fine wood used in cabinetmaking and house construction, as well as medicinal
(treatment of ulcers and mouthwash against toothache), ornamental.
Family
MeliaceaeScientific name: Guarea kunthiana A. Juss.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 18 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Cedrillo; Tocota.
Botanical description
Tree 20 to 45 m high and between 40 cm to 1 m in diameter, with buttresses
at the base, branched; alternate alternating compound sheets, grouped at the end of the
petiole; bud of continuous growth at the end of the spine that produces new leaflets,
but the leaf continuously loses the basal leaflets until it looks like
short branches, with 4 to 6 pairs of leaflets, with a final foliole; flowers are given in
loose inflorescences, dioica species (male flowers and female flowers on plants
separate), small to medium flowers every flower, small, with 4 to 5 petals
yellowish, fruit is a capsule terta to pentavalvada, with many seeds, each one
surrounded by a yellowish pink aril.
Phenology
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes. to high Andean montane
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
Very widespread species from Nicaragua to Paraguay, including the Antilles. In
Ecuador widely distributed throughout the country, from low areas to> 2,800
msnm. It is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Carchi, Morona, Napo and
You succumb.
Category
Native
Timber (wood used to make decorative sheets, can be made triplex
and drawers), as well as in the construction of houses, floors and furniture.
Family
MeliaceaeScientific name: Ruagea hirsuta (C. DC.) Harms
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 8 species; 2 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Guagea hirsuta C. DC.
Vernacular Names
Cedrillo
Botanical description
Fast growing tree, reaches an approximate height of 30 m and 60cm
diameter; circular trunk, with ribs 8 cm thick, globose crown, live bark
fibrous, compact, smooth, superficial presents longitudinal, elongated cracks,
separated from each other of 3-5 cm, it has two layers, an external one with bundles of fibers
red-dark color, and a yellowish brown inner layer, with abundant pores or
channels; odipinnate compound leaves of 30 to 40 cm in length, usually with
a number of leaflets between 5 and 7, although there are also uni and trifoliate species or with
more leaflets, with the spine and lower back, make glabrous; inflorescence in axillary panicle
and / or terminal, clusters or tirsos; actinomorphic flowers, functionally unisexual,
greenish white with 4 to 5 sepals; globose capsular fruit, flattened towards
ends, glabrous 2 -2.5 cm in diameter.
Phenology
Presence of flowers throughout the year
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
Andean region, Western Cordillera, eastern slope of the Western Cordillera, a
an elevation that oscillates between 1,800-3,000 msnm. In Ecuador, it is recorded in
provinces of Imbabura, Loja and Zamora
Category
Native
Applications
Maderable (interior woodwork, wall and ceiling decorations, drawers and
furniture), its leaves serve to mature fruits, ornamental.
Family
MonimiaceaeScientific name: Siparuna aspera (Ruiz & Pav) A. DC.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 33 species; 8 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Citrosma aspera Ruiz & Pav.
Vernacular names:
Lemon of mount, pooch
Botanical description
Tree that measures between 6 to 12 m in height, with diameters up to 35 cm, the leaves are
simple opposite; whole membranous to coriaceous, pedicelled; small flowers
mona or dioca, in terminal axillary inflorescences sometimes paniculate or
racemoses; the petioles are 2.5 to 4 cm long; membranous receptacle or
coriaceous; the sepals are 4 to 7 cm long; congregated from flattened to
circular-ringed; the stamens are unequal; the filaments ligulated to cylindrical,
the fruits are dripaceous, globose or conical.
Phenology
It has flowering and fruiting throughout the year.
Type of Forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
They are located at an elevation of 1,200 and 1,400 meters above sea level. In Ecuador, it is recorded in
provinces of Bolívar, Cañar, Carchi, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Imbabura, Loja,
Morona, Napo, Pastaza, Pichincha, Sucumbios, Tungurahua and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
It has an aromatic smell and is used in the reforestation of ecosystems, its wood is
Used for the production of firewood
Family
Myricaceae
Scientific name: Morella pubescens Humb. And Bonpl. ex Willd.Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 2 species; endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Myrica pubescens Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.
Vernacular Names
Laurel de Cera
Botanical description
Small tree about 5 m high, with diameters up to 25-30 cm, cup
rounded, pubescent twigs and dense green foliage; simple alternate sheets,
decussate, elliptical with yellowish glands on both sides, margin serrated,
rough, pubescent petiole, 0.6-1 cm ribbed on the upper side;
nervia very marked on the underside; axillary inflorescences in catkins; very flowers
small, reddish and grouped; fruit in globose drupe of brown-white color,
granular consistency and covered by a waxy, uni-seed coating.
Phenology
Fruits in the months of September to January
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
Widely in South America, it is found in secondary forests, edges of
forests and disturbed sites, in Ecuador over 2,100 meters above sea level. In Ecuador, registration
in the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Cañar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, Imbabura,
Loja, Morona, Napo, Pichincha, Tungurahua and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
Industrial, the wax that covers its fruits is extracted and used to make candles, soaps,
varnishes and bitumen, manufacture of panela, during the demolding process to prevent it from
stick on the walls of the paila. Timber (firewood, logs used to make posts
fences), environmental (appropriate for the restoration of eroded areas and for
plant on steep slopes and steep slopes).
Family
MyrsinaceaeScientific name: Geissanthus andinus Mez
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 14 species; 6 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular name:
Unknown
Botanical description
Small tree up to 12 m and 30 cm DAP, simple alternate leaves; coriaceous
stipulated resin glands or ducts, bisexual or unisexual flowers,
little; gathered in fascicles or panicles; generally air glands
dark sepals 3-6; free or connate in the base persistent; petals 3-6 connate
usually; stamens in equal number as corolla lobes and opposed to these;
antheces ditecas longitudinal dehiscence or apical pores; ovarian superior of 3-6
carpelar unilocular basal placentation and of a few partially embedded embryos in
the placenta; short style and stigma capitated or slightly lobed; fruit a drupe
dotted-glandular.
Phenology
Flowering from November to March
Type of Forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Imbabura, Loja, Napo, Pichincha and
Zamora at an elevation between 2,500 - 4,000 meters above sea level.
Category
Native
Applications
Timber (production of firewood), food (fruits are food for birds).
Family
MyrsinaceaeScientific name: Myrsine dependens (Ruiz & Pav.) Spreng.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 9 species; 1 endemic species is reported.
Synonyms
Caballeria depends Ruiz & Pav., Myrsine ciliata Kunth, Mangalilla depends (Ruiz & Pav.) Roem.
& Schult., Myrsine tetrandra Willd., Samara myrtifolia (Ruiz & Pav. Ex DC.) Willd ex Schult. &
Schult. f., Myrsine myrtifolia (Ruiz & Pav. ex DC.) A. DC.
Vernacular Names
Capulín del Monte, Samil, Maco Maco.
Botanical description
Medium tree up to 15 m tall and up to 30 cm DAP, simple leathery leaves,
always green, alternating, with smooth margins and with small stipules;
fasciculate inflorescence; inconspicuous flowers, unisexual, 4-5-mer, sepals
connate at the base, glandular-dotted, imbricate or valved lobes, often
ciliolates, connate petals at the base, often papillose in margins, 5
stamens inserted in the corolino tube, filaments very reduced to sessile anthers,
longitudinal dehiscence, ovary with few ovules, well developed sessile stigma;
fruit with a seed.
Phenology
Flowers and fruits frequently in the first months of the year from January to May
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
Panama to Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Azuay,
Cañar, Carchi, Cotopaxi, Imbabura, Loja, Napo, Pichincha and Sucumbíos in elevations
between 2,300 and 3,500 meters above sea level.
Category
Native
Applications
Used for the manufacture of farming tools, trestle posts, rafts, pegs,
crafts, as well as for the production of firewood and charcoal. Used in medicine,
Its leaves have antispasmodic and tonic properties (especially for
women in labor).
Family
MyrtaceaeScientific name: Myrcianthes hallii (O. Berg) McVaugh
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 9 species; 1 endemic species is reported.
Synonyms
Eugenia hallii O. Berg, Amyrsia hallii (O. Berg) Kausel.
Vernacular name:
Arrayán
Botanical description:
Tree, up to 35 m tall and DBH up to 60 cm, reddish-brown outer bark; what
it comes off in sheets; simple, opposite, ovate and coriaceous leaves with green beam;
dark bright and back lighter; flowers with white petals and pink spots on the
buttons; numerous creamy stamens, the fruit is a black-violet drupe when
mature
Phenology
Always green.
Type of Forest:
Low montane evergreen forest of the Western Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Western Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographic description:
This species is reported for Venezuela, Ecuador and Peru; probably
also in Colombia. In our country it is found throughout the Andean region,
from 2,500 to 3,000 meters above sea level. In Ecuador, it is registered in the provinces of
Azuay, Bolívar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Imbabura, Loja and Pichincha.
Category:
Native
Applications
Medicinal (to treat night sweat, soothe foot pain and for conditions
lungs, healing wounds, treating cavities, bleeding gums, colds, cramps, pain
of molars, rheumatism, postpartum affections and to comb the hair), feeding
(edible fruit), timber (planted as living fence and the wood is used in
building).
Family
Podocarpaceae
Scientific name: Podocarpus oleifolius D. Don ex Lamb.Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 5 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Names
Romerillo
Botanical description
Dioic tree up to 40 m in height and 80 (100) cm in diameter, usually
monopolies; vegetative buds covered with scales; simple leaves alternate and
spiral, lanceolate leaf blade 1.5-6 cm long by 0.5-1-5 cm wide,
cuneate base and apex acuminate, entire edge, coriaceous; central rib
prominent on the underside; beam dark green glossy and pale underside, glabrous,
axillary, cylindrical male cones with large number of sporophiles on an axis
fleshy; female cones solitary, axillary; ovoid seed, apiculated and with
leathery cover.
Phenology
Fruits in the months of July to October
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution:
Mountains from southern Mexico to Panama, Andes from Venezuela to Bolivia, between 1,800
3,000 meters above sea level In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Imbabura, Loja,
Morona, Pichincha, Sucumbíos and Zamora.
Category
Native, classified as vulnerable due to deforestation and exploitation.
Applications
Very valuable wood for furniture. Edible fruits by birds (parrots of the genus
Leptusitaca). due to deforestation and excessive exploitation has been extinguished in its
natural habitat, leaving some isolated elements.
Family
PodocarpaceaeScientific name: Prumnopitys montana (Humb. And Bonpl. Ex Willd.) Of Laub.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 1 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Taxus montana Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd., Podocarpus montanus (Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.)
Lodd., Podocarpus montanus var. densifolius (Kunth) Buchholz & N.E. Gray.
Vernacular names:
Romuceillo azuceno
Botanical description
Tree of 20 m that reaches up to 40 m of height and exceptionally up to 1 m of
diameter, semi-round cup and not very dense, outer bark dark purple
that comes off in large scales, simple, alternate leaves, are inserted in a spiral,
linear, narrow and coriaceous sheet, bright green, the shoots are one tone
more clear; male flowers elongated, cylindrical and numerous, sessile or with
short peduncle, feminine flowers very small and isolated at the end of small
branches; fruit is a globose or subglobose drupe with crushed crest, green
dark when immature and then turns orange-yellow, measured
approximately 10.6 mm in length and 8.8 mm in width, it contains only one seed
ovoid -globose, ocher brown.
Phenology
Flowering is observed during the months of June to December, fruits are observed from
January to May.
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
The species are distributed along the mountains of South America from eastern Chile to
Venezuela to Costa Rica In Ecuador, it is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Cañar,
Loja and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
Maderable (fine wood for furniture construction), has great potential as
raw material for the manufacture of paper, tannins are extracted from its bark.
Family
ProteaceaeScientific Name: Roupala obovata Kunth
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 7 species; 2 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Roupala ferruginea Kunth, Panapsis ferruginea (Kunth) Pittier.
Vernacular Name:
Roble andino
Botanical description
Tree 25 m high and 60 cm in diameter, very hard trunk and white;
wood similar to oak, leaves 15 cm long by 6 cm wide; simple,
alternate arranged in the form of a helix; serrated edge; rough surface; texture
parchment, flowers 1.5 cm long; White color; grouped in inflorescences
terminals
Phenology:
It flowers from March to April and fructifies from May to June
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Evergreen forest
North High Mountain of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
In Ecuador, it is registered in the provinces of Carchi, Loja, Napo and Tungurahua,
elevation between 1,000-3,500 m.
Category
Native
Applications
Maderable (used in sawmills and in the manufacture of furniture, is appreciated for its
wood, used since ancient times in fine woodworking), ornamental (seeded
as an ornament in parks and squares).
Family
ProteaceaeScientific Name: Lomatia hirsuta (Lam.) Diels
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 1 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Embothrium hirsutum Lam., Embothrium obliquum Ruiz & Pav., Lomatia oblique (Ruiz & Pav.)
R. Br., Tricondylus oblique (Ruiz & Pav.) Kuntze
Vernacular Name:
Radal
Botanical description
Tree of 15 m of height and between 15 to 25 cm of DAP; Persistent foliage and bark
grayish to dark brown; long branches; flexible with pubescent twigs and buds
covered with ferruginous hair; simple alternate sheets; thick ventral lamina;
petioles; coriaceous; ovate to ovate-elliptic; serrated-crenulated; from 3 to 6 cm
wide and 5 to 14 cm long; flowers arranged in elongated axillary clusters;
tetramers; hermaphrodites; of whitish color; stipulated follicle fruit; blackish to
the maturity; winged seeds.
Phenology
It blooms from September to March and fructifies from March to June.
Type of Forest:
Low montane evergreen forest of the Western Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen montane of the Western Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Cañar, Chimborazo and Loja.
Category
Native
Applications
Medicinal and wood is used for the manufacture of furniture, industrial use and for
production of charcoal and firewood.
Family
RosaceaeScientific name: Prunus opaca (Benth.) Walp.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 7 species; 1 endemic species is reported.
Synonyms
Cerasus opaque Benth.
Vernacular Names
Sacha capulí
Botanical description
Cylindrical tree, woody; It presents numerous branches of dark gray color
visible; dark gray bark, thin, with whitish color rhythm; leaves
alternate, helical, ovate or subcordiform, heart-shaped base of 4 - 10 cm
long, and 3 - 5 cm wide, slightly rounded apex presenting dimorphism
foliar, entire sinuous edge, reticular ridge, petiole from oval-lanceolate + a
Widely ovate, the beam is bright dark green, the underside green
bluish lighter, with prominent veins; panicle inflorescence, consists of
ovoid flower buds; mainly pentamer flowers, sepals of 4-5 free
base, ovate petals with 3 broad lobes 5 mm long, its color is pink
purple to pale pink of 15-60 mm; of 4 - 5 petals, petal leaf with 3 lobes
rounded, androceo with stamens grouped in axillary tops, presents 3-4 or
5 locules, bifurcaciada in the stigma; the number of ovules proportional to the number of
locules with a superior ovary.
Phenology
Flowers present throughout the year
Type of forest:
Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution:
In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Carchi, Imbabura, Loja, Pichincha,
Sucumbíos and Zamora, above 2,500 meters above sea level.
Category
Native
Applications
Production of firewood and coal, timber (construction of houses), food in
Tender status for sheep
Family
RosaceaeScientific name: Polylepis regimen Hieron.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 11 species; 7 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Queñual tree, polilepis
Botanical description
Trees of approximately 2 to 10 m tall with diameters of up to 35 cm, the trunk
it is twisted and covered by a reddish brown bark; that comes off in thin
sheets, has composite sheets; with small leaflets; thick and covered by
resin and trichomes, the flowers are small; grouped in clusters and the number varies
according to the species; the flowers are pollinated by the wind and have typical characteristics
of this form of pollination, that is, flowers with reduced petals; stamens
outstanding and a broad stigma, the fruits are achenes, dispersed by the wind.
Phenology
It has flowering and fructification throughout the year.
Type of Forest:
Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of
The Andes.
Geographical distribution
It is located in Ecuador in the Andean Region in the provinces of Pichincha: "Corredor
Machachi ", Napo, Imbabura, at an elevation of 3,500-4,500 m.
also in the provinces of Carchi, Imbabura, Napo and Pichincha.
Category
Native
Applications
They are used as a source of wood, for example for the construction of houses, as well
as for poles, firewood, charcoal production. Its bark is used to
make dyes and in traditional medicine to treat respiratory problems.
Family
RubiaceaeScientific name: Cinchona officinalis L.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 12 species; 4 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Cinchona condaminea Bonpl., Cinchona lucumaefolia Pav. ex. DC., Cinchona pubescens var.
heterophyllaPav. ex DC., Cinchona uritusinga Pav. ex Howard, Cinchona suberosa Pav. former
Howard, Cinchona violacea Pav. ex Howard, Cinchona officialis var. condaminea (Bonpl.)
Howard
Vernacular names:
Quinina, cascarilla
Botanical description
Tree of 3 to 8m of diameters between 20 to 30 cm; aromatic flowers of varied
lilac colors, whitish; loose, volatile seeds; opposite simple leaves,
oval, dark green, petiolate with large nerves; flowers in inflorescence
terminal, red, white or pink corolla, grouped in terminal panicles from 20 to 25
cm in length, hermaphrodites, actinomorphs, white-red corolla; fruits in the shape of
capsules dark brown, ellipsoid shape, dehiscent; fusiform seeds,
rounded by a membranous wing, 7-10 mm long, 2-3 mm wide and light.
Phenology
After pollination, capsules containing the winged seeds originate.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution:
In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Cañar, Chimborazo, El Oro,
Loja, Morona and Zamora, about 2,100 meters above sea level.
Category
Native
Applications
Medicinal, has action against malaria or malaria and eradicates the organism
human the microorganism called Plasmodium.
Family
Sabiaceae
Scientific name: Meliosma frondosa Cuatrec. & IdroboNumber of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 15 species; 1 endemic species is reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Desconocido
Botanical description
Tree 8 m high and between 15 to 30 cm DBH; cylindrical branches a
subcilíndricos, simple alternating leaves, shortly petiolate, petiole 1.7-2.6 cm
long, glabrous; blades 5.5-11.8 x 3.5-7.2 cm, elliptical, apex rounded to
emarginated, the base rounded, not prolonged on the petiole, the margin sometimes
conspicuously revolute, whole, sometimes dented, glabrous, on both surfaces,
inflorescences panicles, terminal to subterminals, tripinnate (but seeming
bipinnate), 13-17 cm long, moderate to densely puberulent, the clothing
colorless or somewhat yellowish, bracts narrowly ovate, bracteola 0.5-1.2 mm
long, ovate, scarious, numerous; flowers usually densely agglomerated,
sessile, sepals 5, 2.2-2.5 mm long, broadly ovate, white petals, 5,
unequal in size, the 3 external 1.2-1.5 mm long, ovate, filaments
linear, glabrous; stamens 5, but only 2 fertile, fruits 2-2.3 x 1.8-2.1 mm,
subpyriform, yellowish-green when ripe.
Phenology
Fruiting present in June.
Type of Forests
Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
It is distributed in the Andean regions of Panama, Colombia and in Ecuador it is registered in
the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Chimborazo and Napo.
Category
Native
Applications
Wood used in the preparation of charcoal and firewood.
Family
SapindaceaeScientific Name: Allophylus floribundus (Poepp.) Radlk.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 17 species; 1 endemic species is reported.
Synonyms
Schmidelia floribunda Poepp.
Vernacular Name:
Pacuyaji, anamoe, ayamoñebe
Botanical description
Tree, has short glandular hairs dispersed in the vegetative parts, leaves
alternate, by opposite exception, petiolate, with or without stipules, composite sheet a
supradecompuesta, rarely simple, cimosa inflorescence, generally tirsos,
Climbers with 2 tendrils at the base of the rachis, partial inflorescences generally
cincinos with axillary bracts, the pedicel with 1 (-2) bractéolas, actinomorphic flowers or
zigomorphs, small, imperfect, some functionally pistillated with anthers
indehiscent and others staminated with pistil, calyx 4 or 5-mer, 2 external sepals and 2
or 3 interns, dialisépalo or gamosépalo, corolla 4 or 5-mere, rarely null, dialipétala,
petals usually glandulose and provided with a petaloid basal scale and
hairy, extrastaminal nectary, androgynophore present or null, androceo (5-) 8 (-10)
stamens, ditec anthers, longitudinal dehiscence, in the pistillate flower the anthers by
the common indehiscentes, pollen triaperturado in mónades, gynoecium 2 or 3 (-4) -carpel,
ovarian superior, axillary placentation 1 (-2, 6-8) anatopic ova per carpel, fruit type
berry, capsule or schizocarpus, exalbuminated seeds, aptera, curved embryo,
radicle lodged in a fold of the tegument.
Phenology
The presence of flowers can be observed in the months of October to March, and fruits in
the months of November to July
Type of Forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
In Ecuador, it is registered in the provinces of Carchi, Napo and Pastaza, at an altitude
ranges between the ranges of 1,500-2,500 m.
Category
Native
It is used to make a stimulant drink with very high caffeine content. The fruit
It is food for birds and fish. The stem is used as a crossbar in the construction of
households.
Family
Styracaceae
Scientific name: Styrax subargenteus SleumerNumber of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 8 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Incienso, saguilamo
Botanical description
Tree up to 20 m and diameters that reach up to 30 cm, simple alternate leaves of
greenish and lower light brown with pubescence, presents flake or
starry tricomas; superimposed buds, bisexual flowers, short hypanthium, adnate
up to 1/3 basal or less of the ovary wall; campanulate or cuculiform calyx;
corolla connata by 2 mm or more, white or pink, inferior ovary (but with the appearance of
be super), incompletely 3-locular, apically 1-locular because of failure in the union of
the septa; filiform style; axillary or basal placentation, inflorescence in clusters or
lateral or pseudoterminal panicles, sometimes 1-2 flowers, then
generally lateral, fruit in fleshy or dry drupe, globose to ellipsoid; wall of
drupes fleshy, irregular and coarsely rough, seeds 1 (-3), globose
ellipsoidal straight embryo; flattened cotyledons.
Phenology
Flowering present throughout the year, fruiting presents maturation in
correlation to the months of highest rainfall.
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
It extends over the inter-Andean region (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru). In Ecuador
It is registered in the province of Loja and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
Wood is used in construction, in beams and posts. Resin production
Family
SymplocaceaeScientific name: Symplocos fuscata B. Stahl
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 27 species; 13 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Desconocido
Botanical description
Medium tree up to 12 m and 30 cm in diameter, simple alternate leaves, without
stipules, coriaceous, whole or finely sawn sheets; axillary inflorescences or
terminals, in the form of clusters, tops, spikes, panicles or fascicles, paucifloros or
multiflorous, sometimes solitary flowers, usually hermaphrodites, rarely
some are unisexual; pentamer calyx, attached at the base, persistent in the fruit;
corolla of 3 to 11 segments more or less united in the lower part; stamens 4 a
numerous; gynoecium inferior or semi-lateral, 2 to 5-locular, each locule with 2 to 4 ovules,
axial placentation; fruit a cylindrical drupe, ellipsoid, obovoid, ovoid or globose,
mesocarp frequently thin and hard; seeds 1 in each loculus.
Phenology
It presents flowering and fruiting in the months of December and March.
Type of Forest:
Evergreen montane forest on sandstone plateaus of the Cordilleras del
Condor
Geographical distribution
It is located in the Cordillera del Cóndor, and the Southern Andes National Park
Podocarpus (Loja and Zamora).
Category
Endemic
Applications
It is assumed that, like several woody Andean species, it is used in the production of
charcoal, as well as firewood
Family
TheaceaeScientific name: Gordonia fruticosa (Schrad.) H. Keng
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 1 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Wikstroeminia fruticosa Schrad., Laplacea speciosa Kunth, Laplacea intermedia Benth.,
Laplacea symplocoides Triana & Planch, Laplacea fructicosa (Schrad.) Kobuski, Gordonia
humboldtii H. Keng, Gordonia planchonii H. Keng.
Vernacular names:
Botoncillo
Botanical description
Tree, from 10 to 40 meters and diameter in the trunk of 13 cm, branches and trunk
They have a fairly smooth and reddish brown bark, simple, alternate leaves,
of 7-11 x 1.5-3.5 cm, obovate to obovate-oblong; rounded to obtuse, with the
serrated edge, coriaceous, more or less resolute, actinomorphic flowers very showy
petals white, solitary, axillary, 2.0-2.5 cm long and with numerous stamens,
cluster inflorescence, axillary, have 4-5 sepals attached at the base, 4-5 petals
more or less free, ovoid fruits, in the form of a loculicidal or indehiscent capsule,
3 cm long and splitting into 5-7 segments, winged seeds, 1.4-2.0 cm long,
with or without endosperm, curved embryo.
Phenology
Flowering occurs from February to March and its flowers open in October.
Type of Forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
It is presented in the countries of Bolivia, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, Venezuela. In Ecuador
It is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Carchi, El Oro, Imbabura, Loja, Napo, Sucumbíos
and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
Wood is used for rural carpentry, its wood in coal production
vegetable and firewood.
Family
Thymeliaceae
Scientific name: Daphnopsis espinosae Monach.Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 7 species; 5 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Desconocido
Botanical description
Tree up to 20 m tall and between 15 and 25 cm DBH, with unicellular hairs
short, white, cylindrical stem, in general with falsely dichotomous branching,
glabrous or pubescent, at least with a row of hairs, ovate leaves, ovate-layered,
oblanceolate or rhomboid, generally sharp, petiolated, flowers
actinomorphs, hermaphrodites, ebracteadas, shortly pedicelled; Pedicels of 4-10
mm in flowering and up to 15 mm in fruiting, erect, pubescent. Chalice
of 25-55 by 4-15 mm, tubular, pubescent, tube of 20-50 mm, longer than
lobes; lobes 3-10 by 2.2-5 mm, unequal, triangular-lanceolate, ciliate;
Persistent part of the calyx of 3.5-10 mm. covered with short and appressed tricomas;
inflorescence reduced to a single flower, axillary, erect fruit of 16-45 by 13-45 mm,
ovoid, ellipsoid or more or less spherical, dehiscent by 4 valves, seeds of 3-4 by
2.5-3.5 mm, reniform, dense and minutely foveolate, black.
Phenology
No phenological studies of the species are known.
Type of Forests
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
South America, neotropical regions at an altitude of 1,900 to 2,800 meters above sea level, ruderal,
Arvense. In Ecuador, it is registered in the provinces of Loja and Zamora.
Category
Native
Applications
Timber (production of firewood), as well as charcoal
Family
LamiaceaeScientific name: Aegiphila cordifolia (Ruiz & Pav.) Moldenke
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 36 species; 7 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular names:
Desconocido
Botanical description
Tree from 5 to 18 m and diameters ranging from 15 to 35 cm, simple leaves,
generally opposite, whole or jagged; heterostile flowers, usually white,
greenish or yellowish; campanulate or tubular calyx, accented in the fruit, apex
truncated or 4 or 5-dentate or lobed; corundum infundibuliform, regular, wolves 4 or 5;
stamens 4 or 5, included or exerted; style included or exerto, bifid stigma with branches
long and shaped edges, cimosa inflorescences, peaks frequently
panicles, umbells, capitated, fasciculate or reduced to 1-a few flowers, bracts
almost always small and inconspicuous; druceous fruit with four seeds.
Phenology
Foliar phenology of the dominant stratum: Siempreverde
Type of Forests
Montane evergreen forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
Native species of Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. In Ecuador, it is registered in the provinces of
Napo.
Category
Native
Applications
No uses are registered.
Family
WinteraceaeScientific Name: Drimys granadensis L. f.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 1 species; no endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular Name:
Desconocido
Botanical description
Tree, very primitive; sheet of symmetrical sheet, narrow elliptical shape (long relation:
width, approximately 3: 1), obtuse apex, acute base, entire margin and texture
coriaceous, the venation is of the pinchy type camptódroma broquidódroma, that is to say that a
From a single primary vein secondary veins are created that do not end in the
margin and join in a series of prominent arches, the large primary vein and
right travel not branched, secondary veins diverge from the primary with a
moderate acute angle in most cases (45 ° -65 °), tertiary veins are
anastomoses with other tertiary veins forming a reticulum; white flowers to
yellow or red, perfect, actinomorphic to dissymmetric, hypogynous, the different
pieces spirally or apparently in whorls, short or long receptacle, chalice
caliptrado, with a small apical opening closed by 2-4 (-6) lobes in a whorl,
petals (0-) 2-50, in 3 whorls, whole, free or the external soldiers and breaking
in the anthesis, gynoecium superior, with 1-50 carpels in a whorl, absent style, stigma
1 per carpel, (sub) sessile, circular to linear, adaxial, ovules (1-) 2-many in usually
a row in each of the 2 parietal placentas, linear, opposite, parallel to the
stigma, with nucelar operculum, or axial placentation in syncopal ovaries; fruit type
berry, obovoid seeds with dark gray to black testa.
Phenology
Annual flowering, with an average duration of six months, presents a correlation
significant with the rainy months.
Type of Forest:
Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the Andes;
Evergreen High North Montane Forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of
the Andes., evergreen montane forest.
Geographical distribution
This species is native to the Mountains of southern Mexico, Central America and Andes
from Venezuela to Peru. In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Azuay, Loja,
Morona and Zamora.
Category
Tree or shrub of native origin
Applications
Wood is used in construction, carpentry and furniture making). Is
used as a human stimulant and to treat low back pain, kidney problems and
rheumatic conditions.
FOREST SPECIES ARBUSTIVE
FamilyAsteraceae
Scientific Name: Liabum eggersii Hieron.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 12 species; 4 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular name:
Desconocido
Botanical description
Bush 1-2 m tall, densely white-tomentose upper stems, sometimes
with dark spots; simple opposite leaves, ovate to broadly elliptical or
lanceolate, margins remotely denticulate, beam glabrous, thick underside
white-tomentose, petioles up to 5 cm long, broadly winged; fertile flowers,
yellow corollas, ligules 1-3 mm long, cleft apex, narrow tube, 4 mm
long, linear style branches, disc florets 50-60, narrow, yellow corollas,
linear wolves, 1 mm long; achene cylindrical fruits.
Phenology
Always green.
Type of forest:
Evergreen montane forest of the Western Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen high northern montane of the Western Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Bolívar, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro,
Esmeraldas, Loja, and Pichincha.
Category
Native
Applications
For its floral characteristics it is considered as ornamental. It also has uses
beekeeping
Family
AsteraceaeScientific Name: Gynoxys cuicochensis Cuatrec.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 33 species; 23 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular name:
Unknown
Botanical description
Small shrub up to 5 m tall, have a dense layer of colored hairs
grayish white, single opposite leaves, lanceolate and up to 10 cm long; flowers
of two types, external (± 8) irregular, have a striking tongue of 13 mm
long, bright yellow, the internal ones (± 18) tubular and with 5 teeth, of
yellow color, inflorescences with small heads, 1.5 cm in diameter, fruits have
a crown of rough hairs, 15 mm long, straw-white.
Phenology
Flowering present throughout the year.
Type of forest:
Montane evergreen forest of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes; Forest
evergreen high northern montane of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes.
Geographical distribution
It is found only in Ecuador, where it is known from 12 subpopulations,
ten from the southern Andes and two from the northern Andes. Additional subpopulations
can occur in other protected areas of the central Andes. It is recorded in
provinces of Azuay, Cañar, Loja and Pichincha.
Category
Endemic, threatened by habitat loss.
Applications
For ornamental use in parks and gardens, also used in fence posts, firewood and
charcoal production
Family
AsteraceaeScientific Name: Barnadesia arborea Kunth
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 8 species; 2 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Does not register
Vernacular name:
Espino
Botanical description
Shrub, which can reach up to 4 m high, is made up of several
long and thin branches, the stems are protected by very fine nodal spines and
long; fasciculate leaves, subsessile, ovate or elliptical lamina; inflorescences in
corimbos, arranged at the end of the branches; involucral bracts ciliated in the
margins, pointing. Flowers ligulate in number of 13, pink-violet corolla, rarely
pink or white; filaments of conical stamens.
Phenology
There are no phenological studies of the species.
Type of forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Western and Eastern Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographical distribution
It is distributed in South America in the inter-Andean region. In Ecuador, it is recorded in
provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Cañar, Carchi, Cotopaxi, Imbabura, Loja, Napo and
Pichincha, in elevations between 1,800-3,500 m.
Category
Native
Applications
Ornamental, medicinal (treats cough), serves as vertebrate food, production
of fuel, environmental. Used for live fences and firewood.
Family
AsteraceaeScientific name: Dendrophorbium balsapampae (Cuatrec.) B. Nord.
Number of Species Reported by Gender
The genus registers 17 species; 4 endemic species are reported.
Synonyms
Senecio angelensis Domke.
Vernacular name:
Chaguarquero
Botanical description:
Shrub up to 8 m tall and about 15 cm DAP; simple leaves alternate u
opposite, generally thin, very variable shape and edge, in some species
presence of little white latex; flowers are tight in heads or
chapter, sometimes the outer flower has a large bract ligulada, each flower is
composed of a tubular, regular corolla with five lobes or teeth with a lobe
long (ligule) or both types, with five stamens inserted into the corolla tube and
united by the narrow anthers, the pistil composed of inferior ovary with a cell
and ovule, the pistil is thin of two branches, sometimes the flowers are feminine and
male fruit an achene, distinctive dry and persistent, the small seed sustains
the apex, which has hairs or scales that represent the chalice.
Phenology
Fructifcation and foliage present throughout the year.
Type of Forest:
Evergreen low montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes; Evergreen montane forest of the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the
Andes.
Geographic description:
In Ecuador it is registered in the provinces of Bolívar, Loja and Napo.
Category:
Endemic, threatened by habitat loss.
Applications
Environmental (used as water regulator).
Bibliographic review
http://www.flacsoandes.edu.ec/libros/digital/55826.pdf
MEMBERS
- KEVIN JIMENEZ
- BELEN HERRERA
- NATHALY MANOSALVAS
- HENRRY REMACHE
- CRISTIAN JIMENEZ
- JONATHAN ROMERO
