Pouteria myrsinoides subsp. reticulata
# Pouteria myrsinoides subsp. reticulata

Pouteria myrsinoides subsp. reticulata, commonly known as axe-handle wood, is a flowering plant in the sapodilla family, Sapotaceae. The subspecific epithet refers to the reticulate venation (network-like pattern of the veins) on the leaves.

## Description

It is a small tree growing to 6 m, occasionally 10 m, in height, with a watery, white latex. The alternate, oval leaves are usually 40–80 mm long and 20–40 mm wide. The inconspicuous green flowers, 8 mm long, appear from May to July. The pointed, egg-shaped fruits are 13 mm long.

## Distribution and habitat

The subspecies is found on Australia's subtropical Lord Howe Island and the French territory of New Caledonia in the south-west Pacific Ocean. It is common at low elevations.

