Craspidospermum

Craspidospermum
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Embryophytes
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Subfamily: Rauvolfioideae
Tribe: Melodineae
Genus: Craspidospermum
Bojer ex A.DC.[2]
Species:
C. verticillatum
Binomial name
Craspidospermum verticillatum
Bojer ex Decne.[3]
Synonyms[3]

Craspidospermum is a monotypic genus of plant in the family Apocynaceae, endemic to Madagascar. As of July 2026, Plants of the World Online recognised the single species Craspidospermum verticillatum.[2]

Description

Craspidospermum verticillatum grows as a tree up to 25 m (80 ft) tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 50 cm (20 in). Its flowers feature a white or pale pink corolla, with pink or dark red throat.[4]

Range and habitat

Craspidospermum verticillatum ranges across the east, southeast, and center of Madagascar. Its natural habitat is humid and subhumid lowland rainforest and montane forest, and sometimes rocky areas, from sea-level to 1,800 m (6,000 ft) elevation.[1]

The tree is widespread in the island's humid and subhumid forests. It is threatened with habitat loss from deforestation for timber, firewood, and to clear land for agriculture and mining, and its population is declining.[1]

Uses

Local medicinal uses of Craspidospermum verticillatum include as a treatment for pulmonary diseases and syphilis.[4]

References

  1. 1 2 3 Rabehevitra, A.D. (2020). "Craspidospermum verticillatum". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2020 e.T70102355A70165091. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020-1.RLTS.T70102355A70165091.en. Retrieved 7 September 2022.
  2. 1 2 "Craspidospermum Bojer ex A.DC". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 4 July 2026.
  3. 1 2 "Craspidospermum verticillatum Bojer ex Decne". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 4 July 2026.
  4. 1 2 Medicinal Plants. PROTA. 2008. p. 196. ISBN 978-9-05782-204-9.