Kleinhovia hospita

Kleinhovia hospita is a species of flowering plant in the family Malvaceae. It is commonly known as the guest tree or hospital tree, and is native to tropical regions of Asia, including the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of Northern Australia.

Description

Kleinhovia hospita is a small to medium-sized tree, typically reaching heights of 7-12 meters. The leaves are alternate, simple, and heart-shaped, with a pointed tip and a broad base. The flowers are pink, with five petals, and are borne in loose clusters. The fruit is a capsule, containing numerous small seeds.

Distribution and habitat

The guest tree is native to tropical regions of Asia, including the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of Northern Australia. It is typically found in lowland forests and coastal areas, and is often associated with disturbed sites.

Uses

In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant are used to treat a range of ailments. The leaves are used to treat skin diseases, while the bark is used to treat fever and cough. The seeds are used as a purgative, and the root is used to treat snake bites.

In addition to its medicinal uses, the wood of the guest tree is used for making furniture and other items. The leaves are also used as fodder for livestock.

Conservation status

While the guest tree is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction, it is subject to threats from habitat loss and over-exploitation for its timber and medicinal uses.

See also

• Malvaceae
• Traditional medicine
• Conservation status

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