Lithraea molleoides
Species of plant
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Lithraea molleoides is a tree (2.5[clarification needed] and 8 m tall) that is native to South America, specially in Argentina, Uruguay, Bolivia, and the Cerrado vegetation of Brazil.
| Lithraea molleoides | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Lithraea |
| Species: | L. molleoides |
| Binomial name | |
| Lithraea molleoides | |
| Synonyms[1] | |
Landscaping
The plant is commonly considered as unsuitable to landscaping, as it is a poisonous plant: it produces volatile substances that propagate from touching the leaves, through contact with droplets, or through the tree's pollen. These substances are allergenic[2] and contact with them may produce general allergic sensitivity, skin disease, fever, and visual problems.[3] Planting this tree where it can be accessible to the general public is therefore strongly discouraged.
Popular custom
In Uruguay, folk tradition states that people are supposed to salute the tree in a way according to the time of day. [citation needed] For example, if somebody encounters the tree during the day, they are supposed to say "Good night, Mr. (or Mrs.) Aruera". Similarly, if it is during the night, they would say "Good day, Mr. Aruera".