Chinchona is a genus of trees and shrubs native to the tropical regions of South America, particularly in countries like Peru and Ecuador. These plants are best known for their bark, which contains alkaloids, including quinine, a compound historically used to treat malaria. The trees can grow up to 20 meters tall and have glossy green leaves. The bark of the Chinchona tree is harvested and processed to extract quinine, which has been a crucial medicine for centuries. In addition to its medicinal properties, Chinchona is also valued for its ornamental qualities and is sometimes used in reforestation efforts in its native habitat.