Basselinia velutina
| Basselinia velutina | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Embryophytes |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Clade: | Commelinids |
| Order: | Arecales |
| Family: | Arecaceae |
| Genus: | Basselinia |
| Species: | B. velutina |
| Binomial name | |
| Basselinia velutina | |
Basselinia velutina is a species of flowering plant in the family Arecaceae. It is a palm tree endemic to New Caledonia. The species was described in 1921, and is listed as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Taxonomy
The species was described by Odoardo Beccari in 1921.[2]
Distribution
Basselinia velutina is native to the wet tropical biome of New Caledonia.[3] It is widespread, but scattered, and grows from north-east to south-central Grande Terre. The species is present in around ten locations.[1]
The species grows in humid forests, on schist soils, at elevations of 650–1,400 metres (2,130–4,590 ft).[1]
Description
Basselinia velutina is a solitary palm tree. It grows below the canopy, or emerges above it.[1] The fruits are around 1 centimetre (0.39 in) in diameter, and have a pericarp around 1 millimetre (0.039 in) thick. The pericarp contains tannins.[4]
Conservation
In 2016, the IUCN assessed Basselinia velutina as Near Threatened. It is threatened by bushfires, and habitat damage caused by invasive wild pigs. Rats preying on seeds may also pose a threat.[1]
The species is legally protected in North Province, and occurs in protected areas, including Mont Panié.[1]
References
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 Amice, R.; Canel, J.; Ugolini, D.; Butin, J.-P.; Fleurot, D.; Garnier, D.; Goxe, J.; Henry, B. (2017). "Basselinia velutina". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2017 e.T38446A115774402. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2017-3.RLTS.T38446A115774402.en. Retrieved 2026-06-19.
- ↑ "Basselinia velutina Becc". International Plant Names Index (IPNI). Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; Harvard University Herbaria & Libraries; Australian National Botanic Gardens.
- ↑ "Basselinia velutina". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2026-06-19.
- ↑ "Basselinia velutina Becc". WorldFloraOnline.org. World Flora Online. Retrieved 19 June 2026.