Backhousia myrtifolia - Revision history

211.30.151.84: Fixed further scientific nomenclature.

2025-08-03T05:49:25Z

Fixed further scientific nomenclature.

← Previous revision		Revision as of 05:49, 3 August 2025
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	'''''Backhousia myrtifolia''''' (commonly referred to as ''carrol, neverbreak, iron wood, grey myrtle'' or ''cinnamon myrtle'') is a small [[rainforest]] tree species which grows in [[subtropical]] rainforests of Eastern [[Australia]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite journal\|last1=Barrett\|first1=DJ\|last2=Ash\|first2=JE\|date=1992\|title=Growth and Carbon Partitioning in Rainforest and Eucalypt Forest Species of South Coastal New South Wales, Australia\|journal=Australian Journal of Botany\|volume=40\|issue=1\|pages=13\|doi=10.1071/bt9920013\|issn=0067-1924}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite journal\|last=Sommano\|first=Sarana\|date=2015-05-09\|title=Physiological and Biochemical Changes During Heat Stress Induced Browning of Detached Backhousia myrtifolia (Cinnamon Myrtle) Tissues\|journal=Tropical Plant Biology\|volume=8\|issue=1–2\|pages=31–39\|doi=10.1007/s12042-015-9148-x\|s2cid=12622758 \|issn=1935-9756}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Sinclair\|first1=Robyn Jean\|last2=Hughes\|first2=Lesley\|date=18 October 2008\|title=Leaf mining in the Myrtaceae\|journal=Ecological Entomology\|volume=33\|issue=5\|pages=623–630\|doi=10.1111/j.1365-2311.2008.01014.x\|s2cid=85098437 \|issn=0307-6946}}</ref> First discovered and subsequently used by the indigenous communities of Australia, this plant produces oils that have a cinnamon-like aroma, and display both [[Antibiotic\|anti-bacterial]] and [[Fungicide\|anti-fungal]] properties.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web\|date=20 August 2005\|title=Backhousia Myrtifolia: Grey Myrtle\|url=http://trees.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/HSC4634-Backhousia-myrtifolia_v2.pdf\|access-date=10 June 2020\|website=[[Hornsby Shire Council]]}}</ref> Therefore, it has potential applications as not only a [[spice]] in food preparation, but also in the medical field as a treatment option for [[microbial]] infection.<ref name=":2" /> ''Backhousia myrtifolia'' can grow up to 30 metres. The leaves are ovate or elliptic, 4–7 cm long, and the flowers star-shaped in appearance.<ref name=":3">{{Cite journal\|last1=Joyce\|first1=D.\|last2=Dunne\|first2=A.\|last3=Gordon\|first3=I.\|last4=Johnston\|first4=M.\|date=15 August 2006\|title=Sustainable Native Floriculture?\|journal=Acta Horticulturae\|issue=716\|pages=73–82\|doi=10.17660/actahortic.2006.716.9\|issn=0567-7572}}</ref>		'''''Backhousia myrtifolia''''' (commonly referred to as ''carrol, neverbreak, iron wood, grey myrtle'' or ''cinnamon myrtle'') is a small [[rainforest]] tree species which grows in [[subtropical]] rainforests of Eastern [[Australia]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite journal\|last1=Barrett\|first1=DJ\|last2=Ash\|first2=JE\|date=1992\|title=Growth and Carbon Partitioning in Rainforest and Eucalypt Forest Species of South Coastal New South Wales, Australia\|journal=Australian Journal of Botany\|volume=40\|issue=1\|pages=13\|doi=10.1071/bt9920013\|issn=0067-1924}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite journal\|last=Sommano\|first=Sarana\|date=2015-05-09\|title=Physiological and Biochemical Changes During Heat Stress Induced Browning of Detached Backhousia myrtifolia (Cinnamon Myrtle) Tissues\|journal=Tropical Plant Biology\|volume=8\|issue=1–2\|pages=31–39\|doi=10.1007/s12042-015-9148-x\|s2cid=12622758 \|issn=1935-9756}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Sinclair\|first1=Robyn Jean\|last2=Hughes\|first2=Lesley\|date=18 October 2008\|title=Leaf mining in the Myrtaceae\|journal=Ecological Entomology\|volume=33\|issue=5\|pages=623–630\|doi=10.1111/j.1365-2311.2008.01014.x\|s2cid=85098437 \|issn=0307-6946}}</ref> First discovered and subsequently used by the indigenous communities of Australia, this plant produces oils that have a cinnamon-like aroma, and display both [[Antibiotic\|anti-bacterial]] and [[Fungicide\|anti-fungal]] properties.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web\|date=20 August 2005\|title=Backhousia Myrtifolia: Grey Myrtle\|url=http://trees.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/HSC4634-Backhousia-myrtifolia_v2.pdf\|access-date=10 June 2020\|website=[[Hornsby Shire Council]]}}</ref> Therefore, it has potential applications as not only a [[spice]] in food preparation, but also in the medical field as a treatment option for [[microbial]] infection.<ref name=":2" /> ''Backhousia myrtifolia'' can grow up to 30 metres. The leaves are ovate or elliptic, 4–7 cm long, and the flowers star-shaped in appearance.<ref name=":3">{{Cite journal\|last1=Joyce\|first1=D.\|last2=Dunne\|first2=A.\|last3=Gordon\|first3=I.\|last4=Johnston\|first4=M.\|date=15 August 2006\|title=Sustainable Native Floriculture?\|journal=Acta Horticulturae\|issue=716\|pages=73–82\|doi=10.17660/actahortic.2006.716.9\|issn=0567-7572}}</ref>

	''Backhousia ~~Myrtifolia~~'' is renowned for the snow-white colour of its flowers, a characteristic that makes it suitable not only as a domestic/commercial crop but also as an internationally exported product.<ref name=":4">Firrel, C. (2006). To intervene or Not to intervene? An Evaluation of Strategic Intervention and its Usefulness in the Development of a Value Chain Alliance for the Native Flower Industry. MPhil Thesis, School of Natural and Rural Systems Management, University of Queensland.</ref> However, the susceptibility of this plant to "post-harvest browning syndrome" (a disease resulting in leaf discolouration and wilting), threatens its potential as a crop plant.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web\|date=2015\|title=Backhousia Myrtifolia Hook. & Harv.\|url=https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Backhousia~myrtifolia\|url-status=live\|access-date=10 June 2020\|website=[[plantNET]]\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050722041841/http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Backhousia~myrtifolia \|archive-date=22 July 2005 }}</ref>		''Backhousia myrtifolia'' is renowned for the snow-white colour of its flowers, a characteristic that makes it suitable not only as a domestic/commercial crop but also as an internationally exported product.<ref name=":4">Firrel, C. (2006). To intervene or Not to intervene? An Evaluation of Strategic Intervention and its Usefulness in the Development of a Value Chain Alliance for the Native Flower Industry. MPhil Thesis, School of Natural and Rural Systems Management, University of Queensland.</ref> However, the susceptibility of this plant to "post-harvest browning syndrome" (a disease resulting in leaf discolouration and wilting), threatens its potential as a crop plant.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web\|date=2015\|title=Backhousia Myrtifolia Hook. & Harv.\|url=https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Backhousia~myrtifolia\|url-status=live\|access-date=10 June 2020\|website=[[plantNET]]\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050722041841/http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Backhousia~myrtifolia \|archive-date=22 July 2005 }}</ref>

	==Characteristics==		==Characteristics==

211.30.151.84: Edited some instances of scientific names to be in italics in line with other sections of the article and current scientific standards.

2025-08-03T05:42:07Z

Edited some instances of scientific names to be in italics in line with other sections of the article and current scientific standards.

← Previous revision		Revision as of 05:42, 3 August 2025
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	==Common diseases and cultivation options==		==Common diseases and cultivation options==
	B. myrtifolia ~~species~~ is fast-growing (as measured by [[Biomass (ecology)\|plant biomass]], [[Leaf area ratio\|leaf area]] and [[Biomass (ecology)\|leaf biomass]] per plant) under ideal conditions, which includes fertile soil, high [[irradiance]] levels and sufficient water supplies.<ref name=":1" /> Maximum growth is achieved in the presence of oxygen-rich air (minimal carbon or [[nitric oxide]] pollutants) as well as nutrient-abundant soil, rich in micro-organism and mineral diversity.<ref>Ash, J., Helman, C. (1990). Floristics and vegetation biomass of a forest catchment, Kioloa, south coastal New South Wales. Cunningham, 2(2), 167-182.</ref> In addition to this ''B.myrtifolia'' tolerates drought, periods of inundation and repeated root disturbance, meaning that they are capable of flourishing in areas that experience constant temperature, and weather fluctuations.<ref name=":2" /> Therefore, this plant is suitable for cultivation in both domestic and commercial Australian environments (gardens or on footpaths) in both [[Tropical climate\|tropical]] (higher rainfall) and [[Coast\|coastal climates.]]<ref name=":3" /> In these urban settings ''Backhousia myrtifolia'' has an average life expectancy of 60 years, requiring very little maintenance, presuming it receives consistently high sunlight levels.<ref name=":2" /> This is ideal for domestic governments and councils, since it minimises the costs associated with plant watering, trimming and root clearance.{{Citation needed\|date=December 2020}}		''B. myrtifolia'' is fast-growing (as measured by [[Biomass (ecology)\|plant biomass]], [[Leaf area ratio\|leaf area]] and [[Biomass (ecology)\|leaf biomass]] per plant) under ideal conditions, which includes fertile soil, high [[irradiance]] levels and sufficient water supplies.<ref name=":1" /> Maximum growth is achieved in the presence of oxygen-rich air (minimal carbon or [[nitric oxide]] pollutants) as well as nutrient-abundant soil, rich in micro-organism and mineral diversity.<ref>Ash, J., Helman, C. (1990). Floristics and vegetation biomass of a forest catchment, Kioloa, south coastal New South Wales. Cunningham, 2(2), 167-182.</ref> In addition to this ''B. myrtifolia'' tolerates drought, periods of inundation and repeated root disturbance, meaning that they are capable of flourishing in areas that experience constant temperature, and weather fluctuations.<ref name=":2" /> Therefore, this plant is suitable for cultivation in both domestic and commercial Australian environments (gardens or on footpaths) in both [[Tropical climate\|tropical]] (higher rainfall) and [[Coast\|coastal climates.]]<ref name=":3" /> In these urban settings ''Backhousia myrtifolia'' has an average life expectancy of 60 years, requiring very little maintenance, presuming it receives consistently high sunlight levels.<ref name=":2" /> This is ideal for domestic governments and councils, since it minimises the costs associated with plant watering, trimming and root clearance.{{Citation needed\|date=December 2020}}

	=== Post-harvest browning syndrome ===		=== Post-harvest browning syndrome ===
	However, despite these seemingly ideal properties for domestic cultivation, the species is particularly susceptible to a condition termed "post-harvest browning syndrome", which involves the discolouration, browning and [[wilting]] of the plant's stereotypically dark green leaves.<ref name=":11">Sommano, S., Joyce, D.C., Dinh, S.Q., D'Arcy, B. (2012). Infection by Alternaria alternate causes discoloration of ~~Backhouse~~ ~~Myrt folia~~ foliage and flowers. The journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology, 87(1), 41-46. </ref><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":0" /> This browning syndrome was first documented between July and September 2008, on a 4-year stock of ''B. ~~Myrt folia~~'' plants located at the University of Queensland.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Sommano\|first1=Sarana\|last2=Joyce\|first2=Daryl C.\|last3=Dinh\|first3=Son Quang\|last4=D'Arcy\|first4=Bruce \|date=2011-07-26\|title=''Alternaria alternata'' causes pre-harvest discoloration in ''Backhousia myrtifolia'' leaf \|journal=Australasian Plant Disease Notes \|volume=6 \|pages=64–66\|doi=10.1007/s13314-011-0022-x\|issn=1833-928X\|doi-access=free}}</ref> The discoloration was visible initially as small black dots on the surface of the leaves, progressing later into larger brown stained regions.<ref name=":12">Sumano, S. (2011). Browning mechanism in Backhouse ~~Myrt folia~~. PhD Thesis, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland.</ref> This condition affected approximately 30% of the harvested plants, signifying it infects populations of {''B. ~~Myrt folia~~'' randomly, in non-specific quantities.<ref name=":13">Ekman, J., Eyre, J., Joyce, D. (2008). Flowers by Sea: Improving market access for Australian wildflowers. Australian government: Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.</ref>		However, despite these seemingly ideal properties for domestic cultivation, the species is particularly susceptible to a condition termed "post-harvest browning syndrome", which involves the discolouration, browning and [[wilting]] of the plant's stereotypically dark green leaves.<ref name=":11">Sommano, S., Joyce, D.C., Dinh, S.Q., D'Arcy, B. (2012). Infection by Alternaria alternate causes discoloration of ''Backhousia myrtifolia'' foliage and flowers. The journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology, 87(1), 41-46. </ref><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":0" /> This browning syndrome was first documented between July and September 2008, on a 4-year stock of ''B. myrtifolia'' plants located at the University of Queensland.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Sommano\|first1=Sarana\|last2=Joyce\|first2=Daryl C.\|last3=Dinh\|first3=Son Quang\|last4=D'Arcy\|first4=Bruce \|date=2011-07-26\|title=''Alternaria alternata'' causes pre-harvest discoloration in ''Backhousia myrtifolia'' leaf \|journal=Australasian Plant Disease Notes \|volume=6 \|pages=64–66\|doi=10.1007/s13314-011-0022-x\|issn=1833-928X\|doi-access=free}}</ref> The discoloration was visible initially as small black dots on the surface of the leaves, progressing later into larger brown stained regions.<ref name=":12">Sumano, S. (2011). Browning mechanism in Backhouse Myrtifolia. PhD Thesis, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland.</ref> This condition affected approximately 30% of the harvested plants, signifying it infects populations of ''B. myrtifolia'' randomly, in non-specific quantities.<ref name=":13">Ekman, J., Eyre, J., Joyce, D. (2008). Flowers by Sea: Improving market access for Australian wildflowers. Australian government: Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.</ref>

	Although research is still being conducted into its causes, "post-harvest browning syndrome" has been attributed to two primary factors:		Although research is still being conducted into its causes, "post-harvest browning syndrome" has been attributed to two primary factors:
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	* Prolonged heat exposure and lack of temperature control<ref name=":0" />		* Prolonged heat exposure and lack of temperature control<ref name=":0" />

	Infection of ''B. myrtifolia'' by the fungus [[Alternaria alternata]] was analysed and confirmed via [[Koch's postulates]] (a series of tests used to analyse the pathogenicity of certain bacteria and fungi).<ref name=":15">{{Cite journal\|last1=Meena\|first1=Mukesh\|last2=Gupta\|first2=Sanjay K.\|last3=Swapnil\|first3=Prashant\|last4=Zehra\|first4=Andleeb\|last5=Dubey\|first5=Manish K.\|last6=Upadhyay\|first6=Ram S.\|date=2017-08-08\|title=Alternaria Toxins: Potential Virulence Factors and Genes Related to Pathogenesis\|journal=Frontiers in Microbiology\|volume=8\|page=1451 \|doi=10.3389/fmicb.2017.01451\|pmid=28848500 \|pmc=5550700 \|issn=1664-302X\|doi-access=free}}</ref> Alternaria alternata was found to release certain low-[[Molecular-weight\|molecular weight]] host-specific [[toxin]]s (HSTs) such as [[tenuazonic acid]], [[tentoxin]] and zinniol .<ref name=":15" /> These toxins not only damage plant [[cell membrane]]s but also cause permeability changes in the [[cell wall]], that may contribute to plant browning and death .<ref name=":14" /><ref name=":15" /> In addition to this, these HST toxins may also cause disruptions in the oil gland structure of the plant's leaves, resulting in oil leakage.<ref name=":11" /> The leakage of the plant's 4 oil [[chemotype]]s damages the efficiency of sunlight capture by [[chlorophyll]]s (decreased [[chlorophyll fluorescence]]) resulting ultimately in the development of black and brown spots along the leaves' surface.<ref name=":12" /> On the other hand, prolonged exposure to heat stress, was also found to produce [[free radicals]] in the leaves of ''B. myrtifolia'' plants.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":13" /> These radicals oxidise the [[lipoprotein]] [[membrane]]s surrounding cells, resulting in a loss of cellular [[Compartmentalization (biology)\|compartmentalisation]] and structure, once again damaging chlorophyll content and chlorophyll fluorescence.<ref name=":0" /> This is thought to be another significant contributing factor to the high rates of browning observed for this particular plant.<ref name=":13" /> Therefore, it is recommended that ''B. myrtifolia'' be kept at temperatures above in the presence of above 20mL of water, to prevent the development of post-harvest browning syndrome.<ref name=":13" />		Infection of ''B. myrtifolia'' by the fungus [[Alternaria alternata]] was analysed and confirmed via [[Koch's postulates]] (a series of tests used to analyse the pathogenicity of certain bacteria and fungi).<ref name=":15">{{Cite journal\|last1=Meena\|first1=Mukesh\|last2=Gupta\|first2=Sanjay K.\|last3=Swapnil\|first3=Prashant\|last4=Zehra\|first4=Andleeb\|last5=Dubey\|first5=Manish K.\|last6=Upadhyay\|first6=Ram S.\|date=2017-08-08\|title=Alternaria Toxins: Potential Virulence Factors and Genes Related to Pathogenesis\|journal=Frontiers in Microbiology\|volume=8\|page=1451 \|doi=10.3389/fmicb.2017.01451\|pmid=28848500 \|pmc=5550700 \|issn=1664-302X\|doi-access=free}}</ref> ''Alternaria alternata'' was found to release certain low-[[Molecular-weight\|molecular weight]] host-specific [[toxin]]s (HSTs) such as [[tenuazonic acid]], [[tentoxin]] and zinniol .<ref name=":15" /> These toxins not only damage plant [[cell membrane]]s but also cause permeability changes in the [[cell wall]], that may contribute to plant browning and death .<ref name=":14" /><ref name=":15" /> In addition to this, these HST toxins may also cause disruptions in the oil gland structure of the plant's leaves, resulting in oil leakage.<ref name=":11" /> The leakage of the plant's 4 oil [[chemotype]]s damages the efficiency of sunlight capture by [[chlorophyll]]s (decreased [[chlorophyll fluorescence]]) resulting ultimately in the development of black and brown spots along the leaves' surface.<ref name=":12" /> On the other hand, prolonged exposure to heat stress, was also found to produce [[free radicals]] in the leaves of ''B. myrtifolia'' plants.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":13" /> These radicals oxidise the [[lipoprotein]] [[membrane]]s surrounding cells, resulting in a loss of cellular [[Compartmentalization (biology)\|compartmentalisation]] and structure, once again damaging chlorophyll content and chlorophyll fluorescence.<ref name=":0" /> This is thought to be another significant contributing factor to the high rates of browning observed for this particular plant.<ref name=":13" /> Therefore, it is recommended that ''B. myrtifolia'' be kept at temperatures above in the presence of above 20mL of water, to prevent the development of post-harvest browning syndrome.<ref name=":13" />

	This browning of leaves not only damages the visual appearance of ''B. myrtifolia'' leaves, but also eliminates the recognisable cinnamon aroma produced by the oils of the plant.<ref name=":6" /> Therefore, since no treatment options currently exist for "post-harvest browning syndrome" (despite its high frequency), the viability of ''B. myrtifolia'' as a domestic product is decreased considerably.{{Citation needed\|date=December 2020}}		This browning of leaves not only damages the visual appearance of ''B. myrtifolia'' leaves, but also eliminates the recognisable cinnamon aroma produced by the oils of the plant.<ref name=":6" /> Therefore, since no treatment options currently exist for "post-harvest browning syndrome" (despite its high frequency), the viability of ''B. myrtifolia'' as a domestic product is decreased considerably.{{Citation needed\|date=December 2020}}

130.102.13.210: Corrected grammar in "Characteristics" section from plural to singular based on existing sentence structure.

2025-08-03T00:55:40Z

Corrected grammar in "Characteristics" section from plural to singular based on existing sentence structure.

← Previous revision		Revision as of 00:55, 3 August 2025
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	==Characteristics==		==Characteristics==
	''B. myrtifolia'' is a native Australian species that belongs to the Myrtaceae family.<ref name=":5" /> ''B. myrtifolia'' is a [[Canopy (biology)\|canopy]] species of plant (occupying high light environments) that ~~form~~ coppiced thick trunks, and ~~tend~~ to grow in warmer, [[temperate rainforest]] conditions.<ref name=":1" /> ~~They~~ ~~are~~ most often found in regions close to watering bodies, such as the Eastern coastal edges of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.<ref name=":1" /> Its most common locations include the South Coast of NSW in Bega, and off Fraser Island in Queensland. ''B.myrtifolia'' is an [[evergreen]] and has an average life-expectancy of between 80 and 100 years.<ref name=":5" /> These plants tend to bloom between late spring and early summer, producing ivory white starfish-shaped flowers with 5 individual sepals and capsule like fruiting bodies.<ref name=":6">{{Cite journal\|last1=Eyre\|first1=J. X.\|last2=Joyce\|first2=D. C.\|last3=Irving\|first3=D. E.\|date=10 January 2001\|title=Post-harvest browning syndrome and other qualities and defects in Backhousia myrtifolia\|url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14620316.2011.11512752\|journal=The Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology\|language=en\|volume=86\|issue=3\|pages=225–229\|doi=10.1080/14620316.2011.11512752\|s2cid=88180810 \|issn=1462-0316\|url-access=subscription}}</ref> Lastly, oil glands are visible as fine white dots throughout the leaf's structure and are responsible for the release of four major organic compounds: [[methyl eugenol]], (E)-methyl isoeugenol, [[elemicin]] and (E)-isoelemicin which collectively produce the plant's distinct cinnamon-like aroma.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Brophy\|first1=Joseph J.\|last2=Goldsack\|first2=Robert J.\|last3=Fookes\|first3=Christopher J. R.\|last4=Forster\|first4=Paul I.\|date=20 May 1995\|title=Leaf Oils of the Genus Backhousia (Myrtaceae)\|url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10412905.1995.9698514\|journal=Journal of Essential Oil Research\|language=en\|volume=7\|issue=3\|pages=237–254\|doi=10.1080/10412905.1995.9698514\|issn=1041-2905\|url-access=subscription}}</ref>		''B. myrtifolia'' is a native Australian species that belongs to the Myrtaceae family.<ref name=":5" /> ''B. myrtifolia'' is a [[Canopy (biology)\|canopy]] species of plant (occupying high light environments) that forms coppiced thick trunks, and tends to grow in warmer, [[temperate rainforest]] conditions.<ref name=":1" /> It is most often found in regions close to watering bodies, such as the Eastern coastal edges of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.<ref name=":1" /> Its most common locations include the South Coast of NSW in Bega, and off Fraser Island in Queensland. ''B.myrtifolia'' is an [[evergreen]] and has an average life-expectancy of between 80 and 100 years.<ref name=":5" /> These plants tend to bloom between late spring and early summer, producing ivory white starfish-shaped flowers with 5 individual sepals and capsule like fruiting bodies.<ref name=":6">{{Cite journal\|last1=Eyre\|first1=J. X.\|last2=Joyce\|first2=D. C.\|last3=Irving\|first3=D. E.\|date=10 January 2001\|title=Post-harvest browning syndrome and other qualities and defects in Backhousia myrtifolia\|url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14620316.2011.11512752\|journal=The Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology\|language=en\|volume=86\|issue=3\|pages=225–229\|doi=10.1080/14620316.2011.11512752\|s2cid=88180810 \|issn=1462-0316\|url-access=subscription}}</ref> Lastly, oil glands are visible as fine white dots throughout the leaf's structure and are responsible for the release of four major organic compounds: [[methyl eugenol]], (E)-methyl isoeugenol, [[elemicin]] and (E)-isoelemicin which collectively produce the plant's distinct cinnamon-like aroma.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Brophy\|first1=Joseph J.\|last2=Goldsack\|first2=Robert J.\|last3=Fookes\|first3=Christopher J. R.\|last4=Forster\|first4=Paul I.\|date=20 May 1995\|title=Leaf Oils of the Genus Backhousia (Myrtaceae)\|url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10412905.1995.9698514\|journal=Journal of Essential Oil Research\|language=en\|volume=7\|issue=3\|pages=237–254\|doi=10.1080/10412905.1995.9698514\|issn=1041-2905\|url-access=subscription}}</ref>

	=== Discovery and early uses ===		=== Discovery and early uses ===

OAbot: Open access bot: url-access updated in citation with #oabot.

2025-05-25T11:31:53Z

Open access bot: url-access updated in citation with #oabot.

← Previous revision		Revision as of 11:31, 25 May 2025
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	==Characteristics==		==Characteristics==
	''B. myrtifolia'' is a native Australian species that belongs to the Myrtaceae family.<ref name=":5" /> ''B. myrtifolia'' is a [[Canopy (biology)\|canopy]] species of plant (occupying high light environments) that form coppiced thick trunks, and tend to grow in warmer, [[temperate rainforest]] conditions.<ref name=":1" /> They are most often found in regions close to watering bodies, such as the Eastern coastal edges of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.<ref name=":1" /> Its most common locations include the South Coast of NSW in Bega, and off Fraser Island in Queensland. ''B.myrtifolia'' is an [[evergreen]] and has an average life-expectancy of between 80 and 100 years.<ref name=":5" /> These plants tend to bloom between late spring and early summer, producing ivory white starfish-shaped flowers with 5 individual sepals and capsule like fruiting bodies.<ref name=":6">{{Cite journal\|last1=Eyre\|first1=J. X.\|last2=Joyce\|first2=D. C.\|last3=Irving\|first3=D. E.\|date=10 January 2001\|title=Post-harvest browning syndrome and other qualities and defects in Backhousia myrtifolia\|url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14620316.2011.11512752\|journal=The Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology\|language=en\|volume=86\|issue=3\|pages=225–229\|doi=10.1080/14620316.2011.11512752\|s2cid=88180810 \|issn=1462-0316}}</ref> Lastly, oil glands are visible as fine white dots throughout the leaf's structure and are responsible for the release of four major organic compounds: [[methyl eugenol]], (E)-methyl isoeugenol, [[elemicin]] and (E)-isoelemicin which collectively produce the plant's distinct cinnamon-like aroma.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Brophy\|first1=Joseph J.\|last2=Goldsack\|first2=Robert J.\|last3=Fookes\|first3=Christopher J. R.\|last4=Forster\|first4=Paul I.\|date=20 May 1995\|title=Leaf Oils of the Genus Backhousia (Myrtaceae)\|url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10412905.1995.9698514\|journal=Journal of Essential Oil Research\|language=en\|volume=7\|issue=3\|pages=237–254\|doi=10.1080/10412905.1995.9698514\|issn=1041-2905}}</ref>		''B. myrtifolia'' is a native Australian species that belongs to the Myrtaceae family.<ref name=":5" /> ''B. myrtifolia'' is a [[Canopy (biology)\|canopy]] species of plant (occupying high light environments) that form coppiced thick trunks, and tend to grow in warmer, [[temperate rainforest]] conditions.<ref name=":1" /> They are most often found in regions close to watering bodies, such as the Eastern coastal edges of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.<ref name=":1" /> Its most common locations include the South Coast of NSW in Bega, and off Fraser Island in Queensland. ''B.myrtifolia'' is an [[evergreen]] and has an average life-expectancy of between 80 and 100 years.<ref name=":5" /> These plants tend to bloom between late spring and early summer, producing ivory white starfish-shaped flowers with 5 individual sepals and capsule like fruiting bodies.<ref name=":6">{{Cite journal\|last1=Eyre\|first1=J. X.\|last2=Joyce\|first2=D. C.\|last3=Irving\|first3=D. E.\|date=10 January 2001\|title=Post-harvest browning syndrome and other qualities and defects in Backhousia myrtifolia\|url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14620316.2011.11512752\|journal=The Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology\|language=en\|volume=86\|issue=3\|pages=225–229\|doi=10.1080/14620316.2011.11512752\|s2cid=88180810 \|issn=1462-0316\|url-access=subscription}}</ref> Lastly, oil glands are visible as fine white dots throughout the leaf's structure and are responsible for the release of four major organic compounds: [[methyl eugenol]], (E)-methyl isoeugenol, [[elemicin]] and (E)-isoelemicin which collectively produce the plant's distinct cinnamon-like aroma.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Brophy\|first1=Joseph J.\|last2=Goldsack\|first2=Robert J.\|last3=Fookes\|first3=Christopher J. R.\|last4=Forster\|first4=Paul I.\|date=20 May 1995\|title=Leaf Oils of the Genus Backhousia (Myrtaceae)\|url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10412905.1995.9698514\|journal=Journal of Essential Oil Research\|language=en\|volume=7\|issue=3\|pages=237–254\|doi=10.1080/10412905.1995.9698514\|issn=1041-2905\|url-access=subscription}}</ref>

	=== Discovery and early uses ===		=== Discovery and early uses ===

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	[[Category:Flora of New South Wales]]		[[Category:Flora of New South Wales]]
	[[Category:Spices]]		[[Category:Spices]]
			[[Category:Taxa named by William Henry Harvey]]
			[[Category:Taxa named by William Jackson Hooker]]

OAbot: Open access bot: doi updated in citation with #oabot.

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Open access bot: doi updated in citation with #oabot.

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	=== Medicinal applications ===		=== Medicinal applications ===
	Despite this, research is also being conducted into ''B. myrtifolia's'' application as an anti-bacterial or anti-fungal agent, due to the [[Bactericide\|bactericidal]] properties of its oils.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} The methyl eugenol and elemicin components of ''B. myrtifolia's'' natural oils are very potent [[Antiseptic\|anti-septic]] agents, capable of inhibiting the growth of over 100 species of [[bacteria]] cumulatively.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} The methyl eugenol oil of ''B. myrtifolia'' is capable of breaking down the thick peptidoglycan wall of gram positive bacteria whilst, elemicin creates small pores in the outer lipopolysaccharide layer of gram negative bacteria.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} Through both these mechanisms, ''B. myrtifolia'' is capable of exposing the interior of bacterial cells, to the external environment, therefore killing them.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} Consequently, the [[Aqueous solution\|Aqueous]] and [[methanol]]ic leaf extracts of ''B. Myrtifolia'' were found to inhibit the growth of both ''[[Proteus mirabilis]]'' and ''[[Escherichia coli]]'' bacteria.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} Infection by the P. mirabilis bacterium is responsible for between 1-10% of [[urinary tract infections]] and has also been linked as a causative agent of [[rheumatoid arthritis]], whilst ''E. coli'' is generally responsible for [[Gastrointestinal disease\|gastro-intestinal]] infections such as food poisoning.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Chen\|first1=Chi-Yu\|last2=Chen\|first2=Yen-Hsu\|last3=Lu\|first3=Po-Liang\|last4=Lin\|first4=Wei-Ru\|last5=Chen\|first5=Tun-Chieh\|last6=Lin\|first6=Chun-Yu\|date=10 June 2012\|title=Proteus mirabilis urinary tract infection and bacteremia: Risk factors, clinical presentation, and outcomes\|journal=Journal of Microbiology, Immunology and Infection\|volume=45\|issue=3\|pages=228–236\|doi=10.1016/j.jmii.2011.11.007\|pmid=22572004 \|issn=1684-1182\|doi-access=~~free~~}}</ref> In addition to this, the oils produced by the ''B. myrtifolia'' plants are non-toxic (as determined by an Artemia franciscana nauplii bioassay) further supporting their use as either an internal or [[Topical medication\|topical treatment]] for bacterial/fungal infections.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}}		Despite this, research is also being conducted into ''B. myrtifolia's'' application as an anti-bacterial or anti-fungal agent, due to the [[Bactericide\|bactericidal]] properties of its oils.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} The methyl eugenol and elemicin components of ''B. myrtifolia's'' natural oils are very potent [[Antiseptic\|anti-septic]] agents, capable of inhibiting the growth of over 100 species of [[bacteria]] cumulatively.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} The methyl eugenol oil of ''B. myrtifolia'' is capable of breaking down the thick peptidoglycan wall of gram positive bacteria whilst, elemicin creates small pores in the outer lipopolysaccharide layer of gram negative bacteria.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} Through both these mechanisms, ''B. myrtifolia'' is capable of exposing the interior of bacterial cells, to the external environment, therefore killing them.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} Consequently, the [[Aqueous solution\|Aqueous]] and [[methanol]]ic leaf extracts of ''B. Myrtifolia'' were found to inhibit the growth of both ''[[Proteus mirabilis]]'' and ''[[Escherichia coli]]'' bacteria.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}} Infection by the P. mirabilis bacterium is responsible for between 1-10% of [[urinary tract infections]] and has also been linked as a causative agent of [[rheumatoid arthritis]], whilst ''E. coli'' is generally responsible for [[Gastrointestinal disease\|gastro-intestinal]] infections such as food poisoning.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Chen\|first1=Chi-Yu\|last2=Chen\|first2=Yen-Hsu\|last3=Lu\|first3=Po-Liang\|last4=Lin\|first4=Wei-Ru\|last5=Chen\|first5=Tun-Chieh\|last6=Lin\|first6=Chun-Yu\|date=10 June 2012\|title=Proteus mirabilis urinary tract infection and bacteremia: Risk factors, clinical presentation, and outcomes\|journal=Journal of Microbiology, Immunology and Infection\|volume=45\|issue=3\|pages=228–236\|doi=10.1016/j.jmii.2011.11.007\|pmid=22572004 \|issn=1684-1182\|doi-access=}}</ref> In addition to this, the oils produced by the ''B. myrtifolia'' plants are non-toxic (as determined by an Artemia franciscana nauplii bioassay) further supporting their use as either an internal or [[Topical medication\|topical treatment]] for bacterial/fungal infections.{{citation needed\|date=May 2022}}

	=== Insect repellents ===		=== Insect repellents ===

WikiEditor50: /* Post-harvest browning syndrome */Corrected error ("between... to..." → "between... and...")

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Post-harvest browning syndrome: Corrected error ("between... to..." → "between... and...")

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	=== Post-harvest browning syndrome ===		=== Post-harvest browning syndrome ===
	However, despite these seemingly ideal properties for domestic cultivation, the species is particularly susceptible to a condition termed "post-harvest browning syndrome", which involves the discolouration, browning and [[wilting]] of the plant's stereotypically dark green leaves.<ref name=":11">Sommano, S., Joyce, D.C., Dinh, S.Q., D'Arcy, B. (2012). Infection by Alternaria alternate causes discoloration of Backhouse Myrt folia foliage and flowers. The journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology, 87(1), 41-46. </ref><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":0" /> This browning syndrome was first documented between July to September 2008, on a 4-year stock of ''B. Myrt folia'' plants located at the University of Queensland.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Sommano\|first1=Sarana\|last2=Joyce\|first2=Daryl C.\|last3=Dinh\|first3=Son Quang\|last4=D'Arcy\|first4=Bruce \|date=2011-07-26\|title=''Alternaria alternata'' causes pre-harvest discoloration in ''Backhousia myrtifolia'' leaf \|journal=Australasian Plant Disease Notes \|volume=6 \|pages=64–66\|doi=10.1007/s13314-011-0022-x\|issn=1833-928X\|doi-access=free}}</ref> The discoloration was visible initially as small black dots on the surface of the leaves, progressing later into larger brown stained regions.<ref name=":12">Sumano, S. (2011). Browning mechanism in Backhouse Myrt folia. PhD Thesis, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland. </ref> This condition affected approximately 30% of the harvested plants, signifying it infects populations of {''B. Myrt folia'' randomly, in non-specific quantities.<ref name=":13">Ekman, J., Eyre, J., Joyce, D. (2008). Flowers by Sea: Improving market access for Australian wildflowers. Australian government: Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. </ref>		However, despite these seemingly ideal properties for domestic cultivation, the species is particularly susceptible to a condition termed "post-harvest browning syndrome", which involves the discolouration, browning and [[wilting]] of the plant's stereotypically dark green leaves.<ref name=":11">Sommano, S., Joyce, D.C., Dinh, S.Q., D'Arcy, B. (2012). Infection by Alternaria alternate causes discoloration of Backhouse Myrt folia foliage and flowers. The journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology, 87(1), 41-46. </ref><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":0" /> This browning syndrome was first documented between July and September 2008, on a 4-year stock of ''B. Myrt folia'' plants located at the University of Queensland.<ref>{{Cite journal\|last1=Sommano\|first1=Sarana\|last2=Joyce\|first2=Daryl C.\|last3=Dinh\|first3=Son Quang\|last4=D'Arcy\|first4=Bruce \|date=2011-07-26\|title=''Alternaria alternata'' causes pre-harvest discoloration in ''Backhousia myrtifolia'' leaf \|journal=Australasian Plant Disease Notes \|volume=6 \|pages=64–66\|doi=10.1007/s13314-011-0022-x\|issn=1833-928X\|doi-access=free}}</ref> The discoloration was visible initially as small black dots on the surface of the leaves, progressing later into larger brown stained regions.<ref name=":12">Sumano, S. (2011). Browning mechanism in Backhouse Myrt folia. PhD Thesis, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland.</ref> This condition affected approximately 30% of the harvested plants, signifying it infects populations of {''B. Myrt folia'' randomly, in non-specific quantities.<ref name=":13">Ekman, J., Eyre, J., Joyce, D. (2008). Flowers by Sea: Improving market access for Australian wildflowers. Australian government: Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.</ref>

	Although research is still being conducted into its causes, "post-harvest browning syndrome" has been attributed to two primary factors:		Although research is still being conducted into its causes, "post-harvest browning syndrome" has been attributed to two primary factors:

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	''B. myrtifolia'' is a desired product for international [[export]]ation (particularly to Asian regions such as Japan) due to the unique ivory-white colour of its flowers. Initially, between 1995 and 2000 the profits made through exportation, specifically around the holiday season were high, since the flower was labelled "the Christmas Carol" by Australian farmers.<ref name=":19">{{doi\|10.17660/ActaHortic.2006.669.31}}</ref> Therefore, the plant was exported mainly due to its aesthetic qualities rather than its medicinal or food-related uses. To match the slowly increasing demand for the plant in various countries including Asia and Western Europe, Australians in southern NSW began to develop farms dedicated to its production.<ref name=":4" />		''B. myrtifolia'' is a desired product for international [[export]]ation (particularly to Asian regions such as Japan) due to the unique ivory-white colour of its flowers. Initially, between 1995 and 2000 the profits made through exportation, specifically around the holiday season were high, since the flower was labelled "the Christmas Carol" by Australian farmers.<ref name=":19">{{doi\|10.17660/ActaHortic.2006.669.31}}</ref> Therefore, the plant was exported mainly due to its aesthetic qualities rather than its medicinal or food-related uses. To match the slowly increasing demand for the plant in various countries including Asia and Western Europe, Australians in southern NSW began to develop farms dedicated to its production.<ref name=":4" />

	However, through mismanagement, ineffective sales tactics, and the increasing prevalence of "post-harvest browning syndrome" the popularity of the plant decreased by over 40% in 2004.<ref name=":4" /> The browning syndrome was reported to infect up to 20% of all exported plants causing a drop in the average exported plant quality from a rating of 2.75 (classified as ideal quality and freshness) to 1.75 (acceptable quality).<ref name=":13" /> The ''B. Myrtifolia'' market was dependent entirely on plant quality and appearance, and therefore as this began to decrease so did the profits generated by the industry.<ref name=":4" /> In response to this Australian growers and exporters in 2004, congregated to form the Backhousia Group, an organisation determined to improve sales, through more efficient farming techniques and aggressive sales campaigns.<ref name=":19" /> The development of this value chain alliance in 2004, helped restore the Backhousia botanical industry, to a profitable margin within a period of two years.<ref name=":4" /> Furthermore, with the uses of the plant now expanded, its potential as an exported product for antibacterial, cooking or repellent purposes may grow.{{~~SomeoneRandomHa~~\|date=December 2020}}		However, through mismanagement, ineffective sales tactics, and the increasing prevalence of "post-harvest browning syndrome" the popularity of the plant decreased by over 40% in 2004.<ref name=":4" /> The browning syndrome was reported to infect up to 20% of all exported plants causing a drop in the average exported plant quality from a rating of 2.75 (classified as ideal quality and freshness) to 1.75 (acceptable quality).<ref name=":13" /> The ''B. Myrtifolia'' market was dependent entirely on plant quality and appearance, and therefore as this began to decrease so did the profits generated by the industry.<ref name=":4" /> In response to this Australian growers and exporters in 2004, congregated to form the Backhousia Group, an organisation determined to improve sales, through more efficient farming techniques and aggressive sales campaigns.<ref name=":19" /> The development of this value chain alliance in 2004, helped restore the Backhousia botanical industry, to a profitable margin within a period of two years.<ref name=":4" /> Furthermore, with the uses of the plant now expanded, its potential as an exported product for antibacterial, cooking or repellent purposes may grow.{{citation needed\|date=December 2020}}

	== References==		== References==

Trappist the monk: cite repair;

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120.22.83.198: /* Backhousia myrtifolia as an exported product */

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Backhousia myrtifolia as an exported product

← Previous revision		Revision as of 08:54, 28 April 2023
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	''B. myrtifolia'' is a desired product for international [[export]]ation (particularly to Asian regions such as Japan) due to the unique ivory-white colour of its flowers. Initially, between 1995 and 2000 the profits made through exportation, specifically around the holiday season were high, since the flower was labelled “the Christmas Carol” by Australian farmers.<ref name=":19">{{doi\|10.17660/ActaHortic.2006.669.31}}</ref> Therefore, the plant was exported mainly due to its aesthetic qualities rather than its medicinal or food-related uses. To match the slowly increasing demand for the plant in various countries including Asia and Western Europe, Australians in southern NSW began to develop farms dedicated to its production.<ref name=":4" />		''B. myrtifolia'' is a desired product for international [[export]]ation (particularly to Asian regions such as Japan) due to the unique ivory-white colour of its flowers. Initially, between 1995 and 2000 the profits made through exportation, specifically around the holiday season were high, since the flower was labelled “the Christmas Carol” by Australian farmers.<ref name=":19">{{doi\|10.17660/ActaHortic.2006.669.31}}</ref> Therefore, the plant was exported mainly due to its aesthetic qualities rather than its medicinal or food-related uses. To match the slowly increasing demand for the plant in various countries including Asia and Western Europe, Australians in southern NSW began to develop farms dedicated to its production.<ref name=":4" />

	However, through mismanagement, ineffective sales tactics, and the increasing prevalence of “post-harvest browning syndrome” the popularity of the plant decreased by over 40% in 2004.<ref name=":4" /> The browning syndrome was reported to infect up to 20% of all exported plants causing a drop in the average exported plant quality from a rating of 2.75 (classified as ideal quality and freshness) to 1.75 (acceptable quality).<ref name=":13" /> The ''B. ~~Myrtifoli~~'' market was dependent entirely on plant quality and appearance, and therefore as this began to decrease so did the profits generated by the industry.<ref name=":4" /> In response to this Australian growers and exporters in 2004, congregated to form the Backhousia Group, an organisation determined to improve sales, through more efficient farming techniques and aggressive sales campaigns.<ref name=":19" /> The development of this value chain alliance in 2004, helped restore the Backhousia botanical industry, to a profitable margin within a period of two years.<ref name=":4" /> Furthermore, with the uses of the plant now expanded, its potential as an exported product for antibacterial, cooking or repellent purposes may grow.{{~~Citation needed~~\|date=December 2020}}		However, through mismanagement, ineffective sales tactics, and the increasing prevalence of “post-harvest browning syndrome” the popularity of the plant decreased by over 40% in 2004.<ref name=":4" /> The browning syndrome was reported to infect up to 20% of all exported plants causing a drop in the average exported plant quality from a rating of 2.75 (classified as ideal quality and freshness) to 1.75 (acceptable quality).<ref name=":13" /> The ''B. Myrtifolia'' market was dependent entirely on plant quality and appearance, and therefore as this began to decrease so did the profits generated by the industry.<ref name=":4" /> In response to this Australian growers and exporters in 2004, congregated to form the Backhousia Group, an organisation determined to improve sales, through more efficient farming techniques and aggressive sales campaigns.<ref name=":19" /> The development of this value chain alliance in 2004, helped restore the Backhousia botanical industry, to a profitable margin within a period of two years.<ref name=":4" /> Furthermore, with the uses of the plant now expanded, its potential as an exported product for antibacterial, cooking or repellent purposes may grow.{{SomeoneRandomHa\|date=December 2020}}

	== References==		== References==