How Do You Spell CORIARIA MYRTIFOLIA?

1. Coriaria myrtifolia is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Coriariaceae. It is commonly known as redoul or kill-man. Native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and North Africa, it is a versatile and hardy shrub that can adapt to various climates and soil conditions.

   The plant typically grows up to two meters in height and has a bushy appearance with multiple branches covered in glossy dark green leaves. It produces small, fragrant, and inconspicuous flowers that are arranged in clusters, followed by small, spherical fruits that turn black when ripe.

   Despite its ornamental value, Coriaria myrtifolia should be approached with caution as all parts of the plant, especially the berries, are highly toxic if ingested. It contains coriamyrtin, a toxic alkaloid that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and, in some cases, even death. This toxicity makes it unsuitable for cultivation in areas frequented by children or pets.

   In certain regions where its toxicity is known, Coriaria myrtifolia has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes. The plant has been employed in the treatment of skin disorders, rheumatism, and eye infections. However, its usage for medicinal purposes is now discouraged due to its toxicity.

   In conclusion, Coriaria myrtifolia is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region with attractive dark green foliage and clusters of black fruits. While it possesses medicinal properties, it also contains potentially lethal toxins, making it a plant that should be handled with great care and limited to non-accessible areas.

2. A species the leaves of which are sometimes used to adulterate senna; they contain an irritant glucoside, coriomyrtin.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for CORIARIA MYRTIFOLIA

The term "Coriaria myrtifolia" is a scientific name given to a species of plant. The etymology of this term can be understood by breaking it down into its components:

1. Coriaria: The genus name "Coriaria" is derived from the Latin word "corium", which means "hide" or "skin". This is believed to refer to the tannin-rich bark of certain species within the Coriaria genus, which was historically used for tanning hides.

2. Myrtifolia: The specific epithet "myrtifolia" combines two Latin words, "myrtus" and "folia". "Myrtus" refers to the myrtle plant, which is known for its aromatic leaves and edible berries. "Folia" means "leaves" in Latin.