Genus Cliftonia, commonly known as the titi tree, belongs to the family Cyrillaceae. This evergreen tree is mostly found in the southeastern parts of the United States, where it grows in swampy areas. The genus name honors British botanist and zoologist Clifton Wintringham. The titi tree has a number of synonyms, including Cyrilla racemiflora, Clethra racemiflora, Cliftonia monophylla, Clethra monophylla, and Cyrilla monophylla. These synonyms are often used interchangeably when referring to the titi tree. Despite the many names, the genus Cliftonia remains an important part of southeastern US ecology and culture.