Description
Alyxia palawanensis (also called Palawan Alyxia, among many other common names) is a small shrub that is native to the Philippines. It has a smooth, green bark and grows up to 4 meters in height. It prefers sandy soils and is commonly found in shrublands and woodlands.
Uses & Benefits
Alyxia palawanensis is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, as well as for its medicinal properties, such as for treating colds and flu, and for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Alyxia palawanensis is a small, white to cream-colored, five-petalled flower. The seed of Alyxia palawanensis is a small, black, ovoid capsule. The seedlings of Alyxia palawanensis have a single, round, light green cotyledon and a pair of opposite, sessile, oblong, light green leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Alyxia palawanensis is a medium-sized tree, typically growing to a height of 15–25 m (49–82 ft). It has smooth, white to grey bark, lance-shaped to curved adult leaves, flower buds in groups of seven, white flowers and conical to hemispherical fruit. It is native to south-eastern Australia, from the Blue Mountains in New South Wales to Victoria, and is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree and for timber production.