Bois Dentelle
VerifiedElaeocarpus bojeri
Scientific Classification
Critically Endangered
Extremely high risk of extinction
About This Species
The Bois Dentelle (Elaeocarpus bojeri), meaning "lace wood" in French, is one of the rarest trees in the world and is listed among the 100 most threatened species globally by the IUCN Species Survival Commission and the Zoological Society of London.
Named after botanist Wenceslas Bojer, this beautiful tree is renowned for its sprays of long, delicate white bell-shaped flowers that resemble lace.
Physical Characteristics
A beautiful flowering tree with:
- Sprays of long, white, bell-shaped flowers
- Delicate flower patterns that give it the name "lace wood"
- Small to medium tree stature
- Native cloud forest adaptation
Habitat & Distribution
Natural Habitat
Found exclusively in the cloud forests of Mauritius at high elevations. The main known population is on Piton Grand Bassin hill near Grand Bassin, where the trees grow near a Hindu temple.
Traditional & Medicinal Uses
Traditional Uses
No significant traditional uses documented due to its extreme rarity. The tree has likely always been uncommon.
Medicinal Uses
No documented medicinal uses.
Ecological Role
Part of the unique Mauritian cloud forest ecosystem, which hosts many endemic species. Cloud forests are characterized by persistent cloud cover and high humidity.
Conservation
Threats
Critical threats:
- Invasive species - Psidium cattleyanum (strawberry guava) and Litsea monopetala are overrunning the habitat
- Extremely small population - Less than 10 individuals in the wild
- Habitat degradation - Cloud forest remnants are highly degraded
- Climate change - Affecting cloud forest conditions
Conservation Efforts
Active conservation work:
- Air-layering propagation techniques (2013-2017)
- Seed-grown specimens planted at Grand Bassin
- Protection as both environmental refuge and religious site
- Government and NGO propagation programs
- Research into optimal growing conditions
The few remaining specimens enjoy some protection due to their location near a Hindu temple.
Sources & References
IUCN Red List, Atlas Obscura, Our Breathing Planet, National Parks and Conservation Service Mauritius