Neolamarckia

Neolamarckia is a small genus of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae, within the tribe Naucleeae. The genus was established to reflect a distinct lineage separated from Nauclea in light of molecular and morphological evidence. The best-known species is Neolamarckia cadamba, which has in the past been classified as Nauclea cadamba.

Distribution and habitat: Neolamarckia cadamba is native to tropical Asia, with a range extending from India and Sri Lanka through Southeast Asia to southern China and the Malay Archipelago. It commonly grows in tropical lowland forests, along riverbanks, and in disturbed sites, and it tolerates a variety of soils and moisture conditions.

Description: The tree is fast-growing and can attain substantial height with a broad, rounded crown. Leaves are opposite and simple, typically glossy and oval in shape. The inflorescences are dense, globe-shaped heads formed by numerous small flowers, which give the tree conspicuous blooms when in season. The fruit is a small capsule produced in clusters after flowering.

Uses and cultivation: Neolamarckia cadamba is valued for its rapid growth and is planted in reforestation programs, agroforestry systems, and as an ornamental tree in tropical regions. The wood is light and soft, used for lightweight timber products such as plywood and pulp in areas where the species is cultivated.

Taxonomy and naming: The genus name honors the French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, with the prefix “Neo-” indicating its status as a distinct genus separate from Nauclea.

Conservation: There are no widespread claims of global endangerment, but local populations may be affected by habitat loss and land-use change in parts of its native range.