Megistostegium perrieri Hochr.

Megistostegium perrieri is a plant in the family Malvaceae. It is endemic to Madagascar.

Description

Megistostegium perrieri grows as a shrub up to 1 metre (3 ft) tall. Its large leaves are orbicular to round in shape. They are coloured gray-green and measure up to 5.4 cm (2 in) long. The flowers are pendant with an epicalyx that matures to a deep maroon colour. The pollen is yellow when fresh.^[3]

Distribution and habitat

Megistostegium perrieri is found only on the coastline of the Mahafaly Plateau of Toliara Province in southern Madagascar, including in the Special Reserve at Cape Sainte Marie.^[1][3] Its habitat is in rocky areas from sea level to about 500 m (1,600 ft) elevation.^[2][3]

Conservation

Megistostegium perrieri has been assessed as endangered on the IUCN Red List. It is threatened by land conversion for agriculture, mining and forestry. It is also threatened by wildfires..^[1]

Uses

The leaves of M. perrieri are locally used to treat coughs. The branches are sometimes used for decorative purposes.^[3]

References