Maranthes is a genus of flowering plants in the family Chrysobalanaceae (order Malpighiales), first described as a genus in 1825. The genus comprises approximately 12 accepted species of trees and shrubs distributed across the tropics, with the greatest concentration of species in sub-Saharan Africa. Additional species extend into Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Palau, and Papuasia) and into Central America (Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama), reflecting a broad pantropical distribution unusual among Chrysobalanaceae genera.
As members of Chrysobalanaceae, Maranthes plants share the family's characteristic features: alternate, simple leaves, small bisexual flowers with five petals and numerous stamens, and drupaceous fruits. The family as a whole is closely allied to the rose family (Rosaceae) and is placed in the large and ecologically diverse order Malpighiales.
Notable species include Maranthes polyandra, which ranges from the Ivory Coast to South Sudan; Maranthes corymbosa, the most widely distributed Southeast Asian representative; Maranthes goetzeniana, found in East Africa (Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe); and Maranthes robusta of West Africa.
Distribution
Maranthes is native to tropical regions across four continents. Most species are confined to West and Central Africa, with several extending into East Africa. Maranthes corymbosa represents the genus in Southeast Asia and Papuasia, and Maranthes panamensis occurs in Central America (Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama).
Taxonomy Notes
The genus was described in 1825 and is placed in the family Chrysobalanaceae, order Malpighiales. GBIF recognises 12 accepted species. Several species were originally described under other genera and later transferred to Maranthes by Prance and F.White, as indicated by the authorship citations (e.g., "(Oliv.) Prance ex F.White").
