A major breakthrough in South American botany has been achieved with the identification of a mysterious tree that had remained unplaced in botanical records for over two decades. Known as incertae sedis, this towering specimen, reaching heights of 66 feet (20 meters), was officially recognized as a new genus named Daturodendron in early 2024, following extensive research updated through 2026.
Discovery and Classification
The tree, which resembles an oversized version of familiar garden plants, belongs to the Solanaceae family, making it a close relative of tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. Researchers from the University of Cartagena and the Royal Botanic Gardens employed cutting-edge phylotranscriptomic analysis on nearly 300 genes. Their findings revealed that Daturodendron acts as a sister to all other members of its tribe, filling an important gap in the evolutionary history of nightshades.
Distinctive Features
Unlike its herbaceous relatives, Daturodendron grows as a tree. It belongs to the Datureae tribe, which includes the well-known 'Angel's Trumpets' (Brugmansia). The new genus was identified due to its distinctive pendant or nodding flowers, tough corollas, and particular seed shapes that set it apart from related plants.
Evolutionary Significance
The classification was not based solely on physical characteristics. Scientists utilized phylotranscriptomic and metabolomic evidence, sequencing the DNA of these trees to determine that Daturodendron is the basal or sister lineage to the rest of the Datureae tribe. It retains genetic traits from the common ancestor of many current nightshades. According to a study in the journal Taxon, these trees shed light on how fleshy fruits (berries) evolved into dry dehiscent capsular fruits seen in many Solanaceae species today.
Geographic Distribution and Chemical Properties
Daturodendron trees are found exclusively in the high-altitude Andes of Colombia and Peru. Over millions of years, they have developed unique chemical defenses, producing tropane alkaloids such as scopolamine and hyoscyamine. These compounds are recognized for their medicinal properties and are also found in hallucinogenic or toxic nightshades. Researchers have shared findings on Research Gate and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), highlighting the tree's role as a natural pharmacy.
This discovery not only expands our understanding of plant diversity but also provides insights into the evolutionary history of the Solanaceae family, offering clues about fruit development and chemical adaptation.
