Haldina

Haldina is a genus of plants in the family Rubiaceae. It is native to tropical Africa. The genus contains only one species, Haldina cordifolia, commonly known as kaddem or kadam. This tree is found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is a fast-growing deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 30 meters. The leaves are large and heart-shaped, and the flowers are small and white, borne in dense clusters. The fruit is a fleshy drupe.

Haldina cordifolia is widely cultivated for its timber, which is used in construction, furniture, and plywood. It is also used for firewood and charcoal production. The bark is used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments. The leaves are edible and are consumed as a vegetable in some regions. The tree is also planted as an ornamental tree and for reforestation purposes due to its rapid growth and ability to stabilize soil. It is a significant species in tropical forest ecosystems.