Contents
Description
Phaleria Octandra is a tropical shrub that belongs to the family Thymelaeaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The plant has a variety of medicinal properties and is widely used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The plant is also known by different names such as Mahkota Dewa in Indonesian and Seven-leafed Tree in English.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Phaleria |
Appearance
Phaleria Octandra is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has a multi-stemmed growth habit and produces glossy, dark green leaves that are arranged in whorls of 3 to 7. The leaves are elliptic to ovate in shape, and have a pointed tip and a smooth margin. The plant produces small, white or yellowish-green flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers are followed by fleshy, oblong fruits that are about 2 to 3 centimeters long. The fruits are green when they are young, and turn yellow or orange when they are ripe.
Care Guide
Phaleria Octandra is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phaleria Octandra is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale Insects: These pests can cause yellowing and stunting of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. It can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Phaleria Octandra is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The plant prefers tropical climates and can be found growing in forests and other wooded areas. It is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Phaleria Octandra?
A: Phaleria Octandra has a variety of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-microbial properties.
Q: How is Phaleria Octandra used in traditional medicine?
A: Phaleria Octandra is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diabetes, hypertension, inflammation, and cancer.
Q: What are the common names of Phaleria Octandra?
A: Phaleria Octandra is also known as Mahkota Dewa in Indonesian and Seven-leafed Tree in English.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Phaleria Octandra?
A: Phaleria Octandra is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Related Plants
- Phaleria macrocarpa
- Phaleria nisidai
- Phaleria capitata
- Phaleria clerodendron
References
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/259472092_A_review_of_Phaleria_octandra_L_Schum_An_Indonesian_Medicinal_Plant
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/phaleria-octandra
- https://www.nature.com/articles/aps2015126
