Camptotheca acuminata
Camptotheca acuminata, commonly known as the Chinese happy tree, is a deciduous tree native to China. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and features glossy, dark green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The tree produces small, fragrant flowers and distinctive fruit that resembles a small, green capsule.
This species is notable for its bark, which contains a compound called camptothecin. Camptothecin has been studied for its potential use in cancer treatment, as it inhibits the enzyme topoisomerase I, which is crucial for DNA replication. Due to its medicinal properties, Camptotheca acuminata is cultivated in various regions around the world.