Malleivina

Malleivina is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. The genus is characterized by its small, often epiphytic or lithophytic shrubs, with simple, alternate leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. Malleivina species are known for their unique leaf morphology, with leaves that are often elliptic or ovate, and margins that are entire or slightly serrate.

The genus was first described by the French botanist Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck in 1789, and has since been revised and expanded by numerous taxonomists. As of 2021, the genus is recognized to contain approximately 20 species, although the exact number may vary depending on the source and the level of taxonomic resolution.

Malleivina species are often cultivated as ornamental plants due to their attractive foliage and compact growth habit. They are typically grown in well-draining soil and require moderate to high light levels. Some species are also used in traditional medicine, particularly in Africa, where they are believed to have various medicinal properties.

Despite their ornamental value and potential medicinal uses, malleivina species are not well-studied, and much remains to be learned about their biology, ecology, and conservation status. Further research is needed to better understand these fascinating plants and to ensure their continued survival in the wild.