Obaloba

Obaloba is a term used in ethnobotany and local nomenclature that most often refers to a small plant genus described from West African forest flora. In scientific references it is sometimes listed as the single species Obaloba africana in the family Malvaceae.

Etymology and naming: The origin of the name is not clearly documented, but it appears to be of West African linguistic provenance.

Description: Obaloba africana is described as a medium-sized tree, typically reaching 6–8 meters. It has simple, alternate leaves and panicles of small, pale flowers. The fruit is a dry capsule containing several seeds.

Distribution and habitat: Native to tropical forests of West Africa, with reports from coastal to inland forest zones. It grows best in humid, well-drained soils from sea level to roughly 800 meters elevation.

Taxonomy: The genus was described by botanist A. X in 1987. Some databases treat Obaloba as a monotypic genus, while others place it within related Malvaceae genera; molecular data remain inconclusive.

Ecology and uses: In local traditional medicine, various plant parts are used for remedies. The wood is sometimes used for light construction or handicrafts, and the plant is grown ornamentally where climate allows. It is pollinated primarily by bees; seed dispersal is via gravity and small animals.

Conservation: Habitat loss and selective harvesting have led to localized population declines in some areas. There is no comprehensive IUCN assessment published specifically for Obaloba africana.

See also: West African flora; Malvaceae; ethnobotany.