Kingdom Plantae Family Sarcolaenaceae Rank Species | Order Malvales Genus Rhodolaena | |
Rhodolaena acutifolia is a plant in the family Sarcolaenaceae. It is endemic to Madagascar. The specific epithet acutifolia is from the Latin meaning "sharp-leafed".
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Description
Rhodolaena acutifolia grows as a small tree or shrub. Its leaves are small, subcoriaceous, elliptic in shape, tapering to a point and sharp at the base. They measure up to 3 centimetres (1.2 in) wide. The flowers are paired in solitary inflorescences on a long stem. Individual flowers are very large with bright purple-pink petals, measuring up 5 cm (2 in) long. The fruits are dark green, drying black.
Distribution and habitat
Rhodolaena acutifolia is only found in the east central regions of Analamanga, Alaotra-Mangoro and Analanjirofo. Its habitat is humid evergreen forests from 350 m (1,000 ft) to 800 m (2,600 ft) altitude. Two subpopulations of the trees are in Zahamena National Park.
Threats
Rhodolaena acutifolia is threatened by harvesting for timber. Due to shifting cultivation, future habitat loss is predicted at up to 50%. The preliminary status of the species is Vulnerable.