''Schizolaena parviflora'' is a tree in the family

Sarcolaenaceae The Sarcolaenaceae are a family of flowering plants endemic to Madagascar. The family includes 79 species of mostly evergreen trees and shrubs in ten genera. Recent DNA studies indicate that the Sarcolaenaceae are a sibling taxon to the family ...

. It is endemic to Madagascar. The

specific epithet In taxonomy, binomial nomenclature ("two-term naming system"), also called nomenclature ("two-name naming system") or binary nomenclature, is a formal system of naming species of living things by giving each a name composed of two parts, bot ...

' is from the Latin meaning "small flowers".

Description

''Schizolaena parviflora'' grows as a tree up to tall. Its inflorescences are small and dense. The involucre is glabrous. It is thought to attract lemurs, bats and birds who in turn disperse the tree's seeds. The fruit is considered edible.

Distribution and habitat

''Schizolaena parviflora'' is known only from the northern regions of

Diana Diana most commonly refers to: * Diana (name), a given name (including a list of people with the name) * Diana (mythology), ancient Roman goddess of the hunt and wild animals; later associated with the Moon * Diana, Princess of Wales (1961–1997) ...

and Sofia. Its habitat is subhumid forests from sea-level to altitude. Some subpopulations of the species are in protected areas.

Uses

The timber of ''Schizolaena parviflora'' is used in construction and as firewood. It is also used to make charcoal.

Threats

''Schizolaena parviflora'' is threatened by deforestation due to shifting patterns of agriculture. The species is also threatened by timber harvesting and wildfires.

References

parviflora Endemic flora of Madagascar Trees of Madagascar Plants described in 1919 {{Sarcolaenaceae-stub