Amentotaxus assamica

D.K.Ferguson (1985)

Common names

None are known. The scientific name translates as "Assam catkin-yew".

Taxonomic notes

No synonyms (Farjon 1998). Fu et al. (1999) note that it is extremely similar to Amentotaxus argotaenia.

Description

A shrub, generally very similar to A. argotaenia in appearance but has leaves without sclereids, the adaxial surface smooth or with only longitudinal striations (due to shrinkage) when dry (Fu et al. 1999).

Distribution and Ecology

The species was described from China: SE Xizang (Tibet), where it occurs in temperate rainforests on steep, north-facing slopes, associated with species of Magnolia, Quercus, Rhododendron, etc. (Fu et al. 1999). Farjon (1998) identifies it as occurring in India: Arunachal Pradesh.

Hardy to Zone 9 (cold hardiness limit between -6.6°C and -1.1°C) (Bannister and Neuner 2001).

In 2010, the IUCN determined that this taxon is "Endangered," having a small extent of occurrence (<1,000 km²) and a small area of occupancy (<300 km²). It is known from only two or three locations and there is continuing decline in the extent and quality of its habitat in at least some parts of its range. Documented threats include forest clearance for agriculture, local-scale wood exploitation, and development actions such as roads and hydropower facilities. This is a relatively old assessment and and update is needed.

Remarkable Specimens

No data as of 2026-01-10.

Ethnobotany

No data as of 2026-01-10.

Observations

No data as of 2026-01-10.

Remarks

The epithet refers to Assam, a state in far northeastern India.

Citations

Ferguson, D. K. 1985. A new species of Amentotaxus (Taxaceae) from North Eastern India. Kew Bulletin 40(1):115-119.

Fu Liguo, Li Nan, and Robert R. Mill. 1999. Taxaceae. In Wu Zheng-yi and Peter H. Raven (eds.). Flora of China, Volume 4. Beijing: Science Press; St. Louis: Missouri Botanical Garden.

See also

The species account at Threatened Conifers of the World.