Cestrum buxoides
Image: Conveyor Belt (cc0)
NameCestrum buxoides
Scientific NameCestrum buxoides Ekman ex Urb.
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to Cuba, particularly found in mountainous regions such as the Sierra de Nipe, often growing in various forest types, including those on serpentine soils.
Parts Used
Medicinal Actions
Traditional UsesNo well-documented traditional medicinal uses are reported for *Cestrum buxoides* in available ethnobotanical literature. While some species within the *Cestrum* genus have limited traditional applications (e.g., for fever or pain), these are not specifically attributed to *Cestrum buxoides*.
Preparation Methods
Contraindications & WarningsDue to the lack of documented medicinal uses and the known presence of potentially toxic compounds (like steroidal saponins and alkaloids) in many species within the *Cestrum* genus, *Cestrum buxoides* should be considered potentially toxic and is not recommended for internal or external medicinal use.
Cultivation NotesAs an endemic Cuban species, it would likely thrive in tropical to subtropical climates with well-drained soil, potentially tolerating serpentine soil conditions. Specific cultivation details are scarce due to its specialized habitat.
Rarityuncommon
Description
A woody shrub or small tree, endemic to Cuba, characterized by small, alternate, ovate to elliptic, somewhat leathery leaves. The specimen shows dried branches with foliage, typical of a herbarium collection.
