The cinchona tree is a tropical tree native to the Andean regions of South America. It is best known for its bark, which contains alkaloids such as quinine, used to treat malaria. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has glossy green leaves and clusters of small, fragrant flowers. Cinchona trees thrive in high-altitude, humid environments and are often found in forests. They played a significant role in the history of medicine, especially during the 19th century when quinine became a crucial treatment for malaria, saving countless lives in affected regions.