Sarcocarpos

Sarcocarpos is a genus of flowering plants in the family Sapindaceae. These plants are native to the Neotropics, found in Central and South America. The genus comprises several species, typically shrubs or small trees.

The name Sarcocarpos is derived from Greek words, with "sarco" referring to flesh and "carpos" meaning fruit, alluding to the fleshy nature of their fruits. These fruits are often fleshy and can vary in color, though they are not typically consumed by humans. The flowers of Sarcocarpos species are usually small and inconspicuous, often arranged in panicles or racemes. Their pollination mechanisms are not widely documented.

The leaves of Sarcocarpos are generally compound, meaning they are composed of multiple leaflets. The exact arrangement and shape of these leaves can vary between species, contributing to the differentiation of the genus. Sarcocarpos plants are often found in a variety of habitats, including forests and savannas, adapting to different ecological conditions within their geographical range. Research into the specific ecological roles and uses of Sarcocarpos is ongoing.