Chondrodendron tomentosum
Chondrodendron tomentosum is a tropical tree native to the Amazon rainforest, primarily found in countries like Peru and Brazil. It belongs to the family Menispermaceae and can grow up to 20 meters tall. The tree is known for its distinctive, thick, and hairy leaves, which can reach up to 15 centimeters in length.
The bark of Chondrodendron tomentosum contains a compound called tubocurarine, which is used to produce the muscle relaxant curare. This substance has been historically significant in hunting, as indigenous peoples have used it to poison arrows. The tree plays an important role in traditional medicine and ecological systems in its native habitat.