Snakewood - Mennegoxylon jonesii

Mennegoxylon, commonly known as snakewood, is an extinct genus of trees recognized for its distinctive wood pattern resembling snake scales. This unique structure is attributed to the presence of regularly distributed parenchyma bundles surrounding canal-like formations within the wood. Fossilized remains of Mennegoxylon have been predominantly discovered in the Eocene-aged Yegua Formation, spanning regions of Texas and Louisiana. 

Notably, specimens have been unearthed near College Station and approximately 40 miles southeast of San Antonio, Texas. The genus is classified within the Nyctaginaceae family, with Mennegoxylon jonesii identified as the type species. The genus honors Dr. Alberta Mennega for her contributions to botany. The intricate wood structure of Mennegoxylon offers valuable insights into the evolutionary history of cambial variants in dicotyledons, particularly concerning the development of included phloem. The fossil record of this genus enhances our understanding of Eocene flora in North America and the diversity of ancient plant life.