Boscia

Boscia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Capparaceae. The genus is native to Africa and Asia. Species within Boscia are typically shrubs or trees, often with simple, alternate leaves. They are known for their hardy nature, frequently found in arid or semi-arid environments. The flowers of Boscia species are usually small and inconspicuous, often with a strong scent, and typically borne in racemes or panicles. Following flowering, they produce berries or drupes. Some species have economic importance, with their fruits being edible and their wood used for fuel or construction. The genus name "Boscia" honors the French botanist Louis Auguste Desfontaines, often referred to as "Boscia" in his time. It is a relatively small genus, with current estimates of species count varying but generally in the low dozens. Conservation status for individual species differs, with some facing threats due to habitat loss or overexploitation.