Rhopalocarpus mollis

Rhopalocarpus mollis is a tree in the family Sphaerosepalaceae. It is endemic to Madagascar. The specific epithet mollis means 'soft', referring to the very soft indumentum on the leaves' underside.

Description

Rhopalocarpus mollis grows as a tree up to tall with a trunk diameter of up to. The coriaceous leaves are elliptic in shape and measure up to long. It is not known to have any flowers. The fleshy fruits are coloured green when fresh. They may be spherical measuring up to in diameter or two-lobed and measure up to across.

Distribution and habitat

Rhopalocarpus mollis is known only from four locations in the northern regions of Sofia and Analanjirofo. Its habitat is subhumid forests from to altitude.

Threats

Rhopalocarpus mollis is threatened by shifting patterns of agriculture. Because the species is used as timber, subsistence harvesting is also a threat.