Description
Palicourea divaricata (also called Divaricata, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree, up to 10 m tall, with a smooth, grey bark. It is native to the Caribbean and Central America, where it grows in wet forests, at elevations up to 1,200 m.
Uses & Benefits
Palicourea divaricata is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headache, and malaria. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a hedge plant.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Palicourea divaricata is small and white, with five petals and a yellow center. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedlings are small and thin, with light green leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Palicourea divaricata is a tropical shrub that can be propagated by cuttings or seeds. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate temperatures down to 0°C. Pruning is recommended to maintain a compact shape and to encourage flowering.