Pronunciation: [mˈɛsjuːə] (IPA) 
The word "mesua" is spelled as [mɛsuə] in IPA phonetic transcription. It is a botanical term used to describe a genus of evergreen trees native to tropical and subtropical Asia. The spelling of "mesua" is rooted in the Latin term "mesua," which refers to a type of resin or gum produced by the tree. The word has an unconventional phonetic makeup, with the schwa sound [ə] appearing twice and the rare vowel [ɛ] in the first syllable.
Mesua is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Calophyllaceae. It is a small to medium-sized genus that includes about 70 recognized species. These plants are mostly found in tropical regions, particularly in Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Mesua species are known for their beautiful, evergreen foliage and attractive, fragrant flowers.
The plants in the Mesua genus are typically small to medium-sized trees, although some species may also appear as shrubs. They have simple, opposite leaves that are glossy and leathery in texture. These leaves often exhibit prominent venation and may vary in shape, ranging from oval to lanceolate.
Mesua flowers are a distinguishing feature of this genus. They are usually solitary or occur in small clusters at the branch tips. The flowers are large, showy, and often possess a delightful fragrance. They typically have numerous petals and sepals, which can be white, yellow, or varying shades of pink or red.
The fruits produced by Mesua species are berry-like drupes that are ovoid or ellipsoid in shape. These fruits usually turn dark or black when ripe and contain a single seed.
Various parts of Mesua plants have been used in traditional medicine for their supposed therapeutic properties. The bark, leaves, and flowers can be used in herbal infusions, decoctions, or external applications. Additionally, some species, such as Mesua ferrea, are known for their timber, which is highly valued for its strength and durability in construction and furniture making.
Overall, Mesua is a genus of flowering plants that are admired for their attractive appearance, including glossy leaves, fragrant flowers, and occasionally, valuable timber.
The etymology of the word mesua is derived from the Greek word mesos, meaning middle or between, and the Latin word suavis, meaning pleasant or sweet. When combined, it forms mesua, which translates to sweetness in the middle.
