Kanomallia

Kanomallia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. The genus was first described by the French botanist Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck in 1798. It is characterized by its small, often epiphytic trees and shrubs, with simple, alternate leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. The flowers are typically white or cream-colored and are arranged in axillary or terminal inflorescences. The fruit is a small, dry capsule containing numerous seeds.

Kanomallia species are known for their medicinal properties. Some species are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, malaria, and skin diseases. The leaves and bark of some species are also used in folk remedies for digestive issues and as a diuretic.

The genus Kanomallia is named after the French botanist Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck, who was a pioneer in the study of plant taxonomy and evolution. The specific epithet of each species is derived from the Latin word "mallus," meaning "hammer," which refers to the shape of the fruit capsule.

Kanomallia species are not commonly cultivated in gardens or as ornamentals, but they are sometimes grown in botanical gardens and research institutions for their medicinal properties and scientific interest. The genus is currently recognized to include about 20 species, although the exact number may vary depending on the classification system used.