Ochna

Ochna
Ochna serrulata
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
(unranked): Angiosperms
(unranked): Eudicots
(unranked): Rosids
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Ochnaceae
Genus: Ochna
L.
Species

See text.

Ochna is a genus comprising 86 species of evergreen trees, shrubs and shrublets belonging to the family Ochnaceae. These species are native to tropical woodlands of Africa, the Mascarenes and Asia.[1] Species of this genus are usually called Ochnas, Bird's-eye bushes or Mickey-mouse plants, a name derived from the shape of the drupelet fruit. The name of this genus comes from the Greek word Ochne, used by Homer and meaning wild pear, as the leaves are similar in appearance. Some species, especially Ochna serrulata (bird's eye plant), are widely cultivated as decorative plants.

Distribution

Species of this genus are found in the Old World Tropics, especially in Africa, Madagascar, the Mascarene Islands and Asia.

Selected species

References

  1. "Genus: Ochna". biodiversity explorer. iziko museums. Retrieved 6 August 2013.
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