Viburnum Odoratissimum: The Sweetest Secret of Algerian Flora
Taxonomy:
|
Viburnum odoratissimum is not a dominant species in the Algerian landscape and is considered one of the rare species in Algeria. It is not an endemic plant of Algeria, as its native range extends to parts of Asia, but it has been introduced and naturalized in suitable habitats.
Introduction
Algeria's rich plant biodiversity is a treasure trove of native species, from resilient Algerian desert plants to the lush flora of its northern forests. Among these botanical wonders is Viburnum odoratissimum, a stunning evergreen shrub known for its highly fragrant flowers and glossy foliage. While not as commonly discussed as some medicinal plants in Algeria, this species holds significant ornamental and ecological value. This guide delves deep into the world of this remarkable shrub, exploring exactly where to find it within Algeria and how to identify it among other native Algerian plants.
Synonyms
Viburnum odoratissimum var.arboricola
Viburnum simonsii
Viburnum awabuki
Viburnum lucidum
How to identify it?
Viburnum odoratissimum or Viburnum lucidum is a perennial plant from the Adoxaceae family that can grow to a height of 2 or 4 meters, with oval leaves, dark green and shiny, and it is one of the rare species of Viburnum, grows in temperate climates, native to Asia and Europe, abundant in Algeria, the flowers are white Fragrant, appearing at the end of May. Fruits are dark blue berries.
- Growth Habit: A large, dense, multi-stemmed evergreen shrub or small tree, typically growing 2-8 meters tall.
- Leaves: The leaves are simple, opposite, and exceptionally glossy and leathery. They are oval to oblong, 10-20 cm long, with finely toothed margins. The shiny, "mirror-like" surface is a key identifier.
- Flowers: The most distinctive feature. Small, white, fragrant flowers are borne in large, conical panicles (5-10 cm long) in spring. The scent is powerfully sweet and carries on the air.
- Fruit: The flowers develop into small, oval drupes (berries), about 8-10 mm long. They start red and mature to a glossy black, attracting birds.
|
Type
Of Plant |
Life
Cycle |
Height |
Flowering
Time |
Altitude |
|
Shrub |
Perennial |
2 to 4 m |
May to July |
0 - 900 m |
|
Mediterranean |
Edible |
Color |
Abundance |
Toxicity |
|
Yes |
No |
White |
rare |
Weakly toxic |
Other
Common Name:
|
Arabic |
Berber/Targui |
English |
French |
Other
Name |
|
El itrri |
Rand Harami |
Sweet Vubrnum |
Viorne Odorante |
Green Emerald |
Related
species:
§ Viburnum Macrophyllum
§
Viburnum
rigidum
§
Viburnum rhytidophyllum
§
Viburnum Tinus -Laurustunis
§
Viburnum
Tomentosum
§
Viburnum
Prunifolium
§
Viburnum
suspensum
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