Beach heliotrope
Heliotropium foertherianum
heliotrope flowering
Heliotropium foertherianum
Busy bee
Heliotropium foertherianum
Growing along the shore
Heliotropium foertherianum
Flowering
Heliotropium foertherianum
Growing along the shore of Motu Reiono
Tahitian names
Velvet tree
Tahinu (S, T), Tohonu (S, T, A), Geogeo (T)
Interesting facts
This tree grows exclusively on the seashore. It is especially abundant on atolls. Its wood is very resistant to salt and buds, it's used to make furniture, canoes, or in all types of construction. Its leaves, prepared as a decoction, can relieve the symptoms of ciguatera (or "gratte"). Bark and cooked leaves can also relieve them if the sick person drink it like an infusion. Flowers, which smell good, are sometimes used to make monoi.
| Family | Boraginaceae |
|---|---|
| Biogeographical status | indigenous |
| Life form | tree |
| Abundance on Tetiaroa | abundant |
| Ecosystem on Tetiaroa | beach (backshore) |
sources & credits
Butaud J.F., 2013. Tuamotu du centre, Guide floristique. Direction de l'Environnement.
Butaud J.F., Gérard J., Guibal D., 2011. Guide des arbres de Polynésie française, bois et utilisations. 2e édition, Au vent des îles.
Photos: Tetiaroa Society & Jean-Yves Hiro Meyer
legend
S: Society | T: Tuamotu | M: Marquesas | G: Gambier | A: Australs | FP: French Polynesia