About Weinmannia tomentosa L.fil.
Weinmannia tomentosa L.fil. is a large tree that reaches 15–25 metres (49–82 ft) in height. Its leaves are small, measuring 2–7 centimetres (0.79–2.76 in) long. They are light green on the upper surface and white on the back side, and arranged alternately. Each leaf is palmatilobulated, or hand-shaped, the leaf rachis bears small rhomboid-shaped wings. Terminal branches are split at thick nodes that resemble a human metacarpus in shape. This species produces small 4–6 cm long spikelike clusters of creamy-white flowers. Common names for this tree include encenillo, cáscaro, and pelotillo. The encenillo tree is harvested as a source of tanning substances for the leather industry, which tanning process gives leather a distinct attractive reddish color. Its wood is highly valued by the timber industry, and is also used as fuel for cooking when traditionally preparing cheese arepas.
