Claoxylon

Claoxylon is a genus of flowering plants in the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. The genus was described by Étienne Pierre Ventenat in 1803. Species in this genus are found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. Claoxylon plants are typically shrubs or small trees, often with simple, alternate leaves. The flowers are usually unisexual and borne in axillary inflorescences. The fruit is a capsule.

The taxonomy of Claoxylon has been subject to revision, with some species previously placed in this genus now assigned to other genera within Euphorbiaceae. For example, some Australian species are now classified under the genus Austrobuxus. The exact number of species within Claoxylon can vary depending on the taxonomic authority.

Some species of Claoxylon have local uses. For instance, in parts of Africa, certain species are used in traditional medicine for various ailments. The wood of some Claoxylon species may also be used for local purposes. Like many plants in the Euphorbiaceae family, Claoxylon species can contain latex, which may be irritant or toxic in some cases. Further research is ongoing to understand the full range of its biodiversity and potential applications.