Houtos

Houtos is a genus of flowering plants in the family Malvaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. The genus was first described in 1867 by George Bentham. The name "houtos" is derived from the Greek word "houtos," meaning "this."

The plants in the genus Houtos are typically shrubs or small trees. They have simple, alternate leaves that are often lobed or toothed. The flowers are usually borne singly or in small clusters and are often brightly colored, ranging from yellow to red. The fruit is a capsule that splits open when ripe to release numerous small seeds.

Species within the genus Houtos are used for a variety of purposes. Some species have traditional medicinal uses, with various parts of the plant being employed to treat ailments. Additionally, some species are cultivated for ornamental purposes due to their attractive flowers. Their ecological role includes providing habitat and food for local wildlife. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the biodiversity and potential applications of the Houtos genus.