in botany: A genus of the monogynia order, belonging to the pentandria clas of plants; and in the natural method ranking with those of which the order is doubtful. The corolla is elevated and funnel-shaped; the antherae are longitudinal; the capsule pentagonal, and refuse at top; bilocular, and crowned with a pentaphyllous calyx.

There are two species, viz. the grandiflora and hexandra; the former of which has been particularly described by Dr Browne, who has also given a good figure of it. It has frequently flowered in the royal garden at Kew, and in Dr Pitcairn's at Ilfordon.

The external bark is remarkably rough, furrowed, and thick; it has no taste. The inner bark is very thin, and of a dark brown colour. Its taste is bitter and astringent, and its virtues are the same as those of the Jesuit's bark. Infused in spirits or wine with a little orange-peel, it makes an excellent stomachic tincture.