Murillo's-bark
Quillaja saponaria Molina
Quillaja saponaria is an evergreen tree in the Quillajaceae family, native to central Chile. It grows from 32 to 40° South Latitude, reaching elevations of up to 2000 m. The tree can attain heights of 15–20 m. It has thick, dark bark, smooth, leathery, shiny, oval evergreen leaves 3–5 cm long, white star-shaped flowers 15 mm in diameter arranged in dense corymbs, and a dry fruit with five follicles, each containing 10–20 seeds. The species has practical and commercial uses.
Description
Quillaja saponaria, known as Murillo's-bark, is an evergreen tree found in central Chile and cultivated globally. It is part of the Quillajaceae family and was described by Molina in 1782. The tree is adapted to warm temperate climates and can grow at elevations of up to 2000 m. Its foliage includes dark bark and leathery leaves, while its flowers are white and star-shaped. The fruit is dry and contains multiple follicles with seeds. The species is valued for its utility in various applications.
Other common names
Murillo's-barkquillajasoapbarktreesoapbushsoaptreesoapbark
Distribution
IN · Global · Bolivia · Chile Central
Synonyms
Quillaja molinaeQuillaja poeppigiiQuillaja saponariaQuillaja smegmadermisQuillaja smegmadermosSmegmadermos emarginataSmegmaria emarginataLeucoxyla saponaria