Helicia symplocoides

Helicia symplocoides is a tree in the family Proteaceae, native to Borneo. The specific epithet symplocoides refers to the leaves' resemblance to those of the genus Symplocos.

Description
Helicia symplocoides grows up to 15 m tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 25 cm. The twigs are grey to brown. The leathery leaves are obovate and measure up to 10 cm long. The fruits dry black.

Distribution and habitat
Helicia symplocoides is endemic to Borneo, where it is known only from Sabah and Sarawak. In Sabah, it is confined to Kinabalu Park, in montane forests at elevations of 1850 m. In Sarawak, its habitat is hill forests, at elevations of 445 m.

Conservation
Helicia symplocoides has been assessed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The Sarawak subpopulation is threatened by mining and urban development. The species presence in Kinabalu Park affords the Sabah subpopulation some protection.