Terephara

Terephara is a genus of large, deciduous trees native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. The genus is characterized by its distinctive, palmate leaves and large, showy flowers that are often fragrant. Terephara trees are valued for their timber, which is used in construction and furniture making, as well as for their edible fruits and seeds. The genus includes several species, the most well-known of which is Terephara maculata, commonly known as the Indian almond or tulsi tree. This species is particularly notable for its medicinal properties, with its leaves and flowers being used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. Terephara trees are also known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making them an important component of agroforestry systems. Despite their economic and ecological significance, many species of Terephara are threatened by habitat loss and overharvesting, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect this important genus.