Microtropis ovata

Microtropis ovata is a plant in the family Celastraceae. The specific epithet ovata means 'egg-shaped', referring to the leaves.^[3]

Microtropis ovata
Conservation status
Vulnerable  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Rosids
Order:	Celastrales
Family:	Celastraceae
Genus:	Microtropis
Species:	M. ovata
Binomial name
Microtropis ovata Merr. & F.L.Freeman[2]

Description

Microtropis ovata grows as a shrub up to 3 m (10 ft) tall. The leathery leaves are oblong to ovate and measure up to 10 cm (4 in) long. The flowers are in cymes.^[3]

Distribution and habitat

Microtropis ovata is endemic to Borneo, where it is confined to Mount Kinabalu. Its habitat is in high-elevation forests, to elevations of 3,400 m (11,200 ft).^[1]

Conservation

Microtropis ovata has been assessed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. It is threatened by landslides and climate change. The species is confined to Kinabalu Park in Sabah, where it is protected.^[1]