Colubrina
contains approximately 30 species of unarmed shrubs or small trees found mostly in the Americas but occurring also in Asia and Australia. In this work the common names, ethnobotany and geographic distribution for species of the genus in Mexico are reported. A literature review was undertaken with the intent to obtain all possible information regarding the study group; likewise was realized the study of herbarium specimens, were reviewed about 500 specimens deposited in national and international herbaria; field visits to observe natural populations in order to take notes of ecological and ethnobotanical also were carried out.
Colubrina is widely distributed in Mexico, where currently 15 species are recognized. Various species are found in 22 states of the country, growing mainly in tropical deciduous forests, tropical evergreen forests and xeric scrub but rarely also in oak or pine forests, at elevations from sea level to 2300 m. They are known by different common names depending on the region. People use the wood as raw material for building houses or fences or as firewood; however, they also use some species as medicines and ornaments.
