desmosiinia

Desmosiinia is a monotypic genus of flowering plants in the family Malvaceae, containing the single species Desmosiinia malayana. This species is native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in Malaysia and Indonesia. It is a small herbaceous plant, typically growing low to the ground.

The genus Desmosiinia was described by the botanist Charles Phenice in 1979. The genus name itself is derived from Greek words, possibly referencing the way the plant parts are arranged or connected. Desmosiinia malayana is characterized by its simple, alternate leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. The flowers are usually white or pale in color and have five petals. The fruit is a small capsule.

Desmosiinia malayana thrives in humid, tropical environments, often found in the understory of forests or in disturbed areas. Due to its limited geographical distribution, its conservation status is of interest, though specific assessments may vary. Research into Desmosiinia is relatively limited, and further studies are needed to fully understand its ecological role, reproductive biology, and potential ethnobotanical uses. Its phylogenetic placement within the Malvaceae family has been a subject of botanical interest, contributing to the understanding of the family's evolutionary history.