Rhodolaena acutifolia
# Rhodolaena acutifolia

Rhodolaena acutifolia is a plant in the family Sarcolaenaceae. It is endemic to Madagascar. The specific epithet acutifolia is from the Latin meaning "sharp-leafed".

## Description

Rhodolaena acutifolia grows as a small tree or shrub. Its leaves are small, subcoriaceous, elliptic in shape, tapering to a point and sharp at the base. They measure up to 3 centimetres (1.2 in) wide. The flowers are paired in solitary inflorescences on a long stem. Individual flowers are very large with bright purple-pink petals, measuring up 5 cm (2 in) long. The fruits are dark green, drying black.

## Distribution and habitat

Rhodolaena acutifolia is only found in the east central regions of Analamanga, Alaotra-Mangoro and Analanjirofo. Its habitat is humid evergreen forests from 350 m (1,000 ft) to 800 m (2,600 ft) altitude. Two subpopulations of the trees are in Zahamena National Park.

## Threats

Rhodolaena acutifolia is threatened by harvesting for timber. Due to shifting cultivation, future habitat loss is predicted at up to 50%.

