Megistostegium nodulosum
Megistostegium nodulosum is a tree in the family Malvaceae. It is endemic to Madagascar.
| Megistostegium nodulosum | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Megistostegium |
| Species: | M. nodulosum |
| Binomial name | |
| Megistostegium nodulosum | |
| Synonyms[1] | |
| |
Description
Megistostegium nodulosum grows as a tree up to 8 metres (30 ft) tall. Its thin leaves are orbicular in shape. They are coloured gray-green and measure up to 4 cm (2 in) long. The flowers are erect with a light pink to red epicalyx and a red to pink corolla. The pollen is yellow when fresh.[2]
Distribution and habitat
Megistostegium nodulosum is found at numerous locations throughout southern Madagascar, including in protected areas. Its habitat is forests from sea level to about 500 m (1,600 ft) altitude.[1]
Threats
Threats to Megistostegium in general include grazing by goats, invasive plants competing for limited water supplies and the possible extinction of pollinators. The preliminary conservation status of M. nodulosum is Near Threatened given the use of its wood.[2]
Uses
Megistostegium nodulosum is locally used in home construction and as charcoal. The bark, leaves and twigs are locally used to treat conditions including eye ailments and stomach aches.[2]
References
- "Megistostegium nodulosum". Catalogue of the Vascular Plants of Madagascar. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 8 May 2017 – via Tropicos.org.
- Koopman, Margaret M. (2011). "A synopsis of the Malagasy endemic genus Megistostegium Hochr. (Hibisceae, Malvaceae)" (PDF). Adansonia. 3. Paris: Publications Scientifiques du Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle. 33 (1): 110–112. doi:10.5252/a2011n1a7. S2CID 85429003. Retrieved 8 May 2017.