CR

Plinia stenophylla

Unknown

Overview

Hoja de clavo (Plinia stenophylla) is a rare neotropical tree species in the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) characterized by its narrow, elongated leaves that give it its common name meaning 'clove leaf.' This small to medium-sized tree produces small white flowers and dark purple fruits, serving as an important food source for local wildlife in its native forest ecosystems.

Plinia stenophylla faces severe threats primarily from habitat destruction and fragmentation due to agricultural expansion and urban development in its native Brazilian Atlantic Forest region. The species has an extremely restricted range and small population size, making it highly vulnerable to environmental changes and human activities. Deforestation for cattle ranching and crop cultivation continues to reduce the remaining forest patches where this endemic species occurs.

Threat summary

Habitat

Plinia stenophylla inhabits humid montane forests and cloud forest margins at elevations between 800-2000 meters in the Andes. The species requires well-drained soils with consistent moisture and partial canopy cover, typically growing in secondary forest edges and forest clearings with rich organic substrates.

Other threatened species in Myrtaceae

CR

Myrcia abbottiana

Unknown
CR

Plinia recurvata

Unknown
CR

Eugenia piedraensis

Unknown
CR

Psidium cymosum

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Plinia stenophylla classified as Critically Endangered?
Plinia stenophylla is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Plinia stenophylla faces severe threats primarily from habitat destruction and fragmentation due to agricultural expansion and urban development in its native Brazilian Atlantic Forest region. The species has an extremely restricted range and small population size, making it highly vulnerable to environmental changes and human activities. Deforestation for cattle ranching and crop cultivation continues to reduce the remaining forest patches where this endemic species occurs.
Where does Plinia stenophylla live?
Plinia stenophylla occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Plinia stenophylla?
The main threats to Plinia stenophylla are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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