Vahl's box
Buxus vahlii Baill.
Buxus vahlii, known as Vahl's boxwood, is a species in the Buxaceae family. It is native to Puerto Rico and St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, with no more than four known populations. Its rarity is attributed to deforestation and human disturbance. Initially thought to be endemic to Puerto Rico, it was listed as endangered in 1985. Unconfirmed reports of its presence in Jamaica exist. A few individuals have been found in St. Croix, including within Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge.
Description
Buxus vahlii, or Vahl's boxwood, is a member of the Buxaceae family. It is found in Puerto Rico and St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, with no more than four known populations. The species has likely always been uncommon, and its distribution has been reduced due to deforestation and human activities. When listed as an endangered species in 1985, it was believed to be endemic to Puerto Rico. There have been reports of its presence in Jamaica, but these have not been confirmed. Some individuals have been identified in St. Croix, with some located within Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge.
Other common names
Vahl's BoxwoodVahl's box
Distribution
Global · Leeward Is. · Puerto Rico
Synonyms
Tricera vahliiBuxus cruciataCrantzia laevigataCrantzia solanderi