sigmoidia

Sigidia is a genus of plants in the family Oleaceae, the olive family. These plants are native to Madagascar. The genus was described by botanist Pierre Boiteau in 1956. Sigidia species are typically shrubs or small trees. They are characterized by their simple, opposite leaves and their inflorescences which are usually panicles or cymes. The flowers are small and often white or greenish, with four petals. The fruit is a drupe.

The classification of Sigidia within Oleaceae has been subject to some debate. It has been placed in various tribes and subtribes over time, reflecting the challenges in resolving phylogenetic relationships within the family. Molecular data has contributed to a better understanding of its placement.

Ecologically, Sigidia species are found in various habitats in Madagascar, including forests and scrublands. They play a role in their native ecosystems as part of the understory vegetation. Information on their specific ecological interactions, such as pollination or seed dispersal mechanisms, may be limited for some species. Conservation status varies among the species within the genus, with some facing threats due to habitat loss. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the diversity and ecological significance of Sigidia.