Pachycormus discolor

For other uses, see Pachycormus. For the extinct pachycormiform, see Pachycormus (fish).

Pachycormus discolor is a species of flowering plant in the family Anacardiaceae. It is commonly called the Baja elephant tree. It is endemic to the Baja California peninsula. This sarcocaulescent plant has three varieties.

Description

The Baja elephant tree has a gnarled growth habit that can make bizarre or strange forms. The leaves are dark green and drought deciduous, yellowing first before they drop.

Taxonomy

Etymology

The genus name Pachycormus comes from the Greek pachy for "thick" and kormos for "trunk", referencing the plant's thick caudiciform trunk.

Varieties

Pachycormus discolor var. discolor – commonly called the Magdalena elephant tree.
Pachycormus discolor var. pubescens – commonly called Baja California elephant tree.
Pachycormus discolor var. veatchiana – commonly called the Veatch elephant tree.

The leaves of var. veatchiana on Cedros Island

References

"Pachycormus discolor". Plants of the World Online. Retrieved 20 August 2022.