Staphylocarpus

Staphylocarpus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae, commonly known as the pea family. The genus is native to Madagascar and the Comoros. Plants in the genus Staphylocarpus are typically shrubs or small trees. They are characterized by their compound leaves and their flowers, which are usually borne in racemes or panicles. The fruits are legumes, which are characteristic of the Fabaceae family.

The genus Staphylocarpus contains a few species, though the exact number is subject to ongoing taxonomic revision. Some of the recognized species include Staphylocarpus axillaris and Staphylocarpus madagascariensis. These plants are found in various habitats within their native range, often in forests or scrubland.

Little is known about the specific ecological roles or traditional uses of Staphylocarpus species. As with many plants from Madagascar, they may possess unique chemical compounds, but extensive research into these aspects is not widely documented. The genus's distribution is limited to the island of Madagascar and nearby Comoro Islands, making them part of the rich and endemic flora of this region. Conservation status for individual species may vary, and further research is needed to assess their long-term viability. The genus contributes to the diverse botanical landscape of its native islands.