Island walnut
Cordia subcordata
The bark is used in traditional medicine
Tahitian names
Tou (FP), Pua (T)
Interesting facts
Its wood is very used for sculptures or to make objects such as drums, containers, or furniture. The trunk can reach 4 m and its flowers have a heart shape. The Tou’s flowers are employed in many traditional medicinal remedies (asthma, cough, pulmonary tuberculosis, etc.). Red dye, used for “tapa” (bark cloth), are made with its leaves mixed with mati seeds (Ficus tinctoria). Tou is one of the sacred trees planted near “marae”.
| Family | Boraginaceae |
|---|---|
| Biogeographical status | indigenous |
| Life form | tree |
| Abundance on Tetiaroa | common |
| Ecosystem on Tetiaroa | mixed forest |
Resources & Documents
sources & credits
Butaud J.F., Gérard J., Guibal D., 2011. Guide des arbres de Polynésie française, bois et utilisations. 2e édition, Au vent des îles.
Butaud J.F., 2013. Tuamotu de l’ouest, Guide floristique. Direction de l'Environnement.
legend
S: Society | T: Tuamotu | M: Marquesas | G: Gambier | A: Australs | FP: French Polynesia