OXYGALA Meaning and
Definition
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Oxygala is a noun that refers to a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Malpighiaceae, commonly known as the sourbushes. This genus comprises approximately 14 known species of shrubs or small trees that are native to Africa, particularly in regions like Madagascar and the western Indian Ocean islands.
The plants of the genus Oxygala are characterized by their opposite leaves with stipules, which are small firm structures located at the base of the leaf stalk. The leaves are typically simple, elliptical, or lanceolate in shape, and possess a shiny texture. The flowers of these plants usually grow in clusters or racemes and are usually small, with five petals that are often varying shades of yellow or white in color. Oxygala plants are known for their sour or acidic taste, which is derived from the secretion of oxalic acid present in the leaves and stems.
These sourbush plants are often found in diverse habitats such as forests, woodlands, and rocky outcrops. In some regions, certain species of the Oxygala genus are used for medicinal purposes. Some species are cultivated as ornamental plants for their attractive flowers or foliage. Oxygala plants play a role in the ecosystems they inhabit by providing food and habitat for various pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Etymology of OXYGALA
The word oxygala comes from the Greek words oxys meaning sharp or acidic and gala meaning milk. Thus, the literal translation of oxygala is acidic milk.
