Description
Symplocos costatifructa (also called Ribbed-fruited sweetleaf, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 6 meters tall. It is native to India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka and is found in moist, evergreen forests. It has white to pink flowers and its leaves are simple, opposite, and lanceolate.
Uses & Benefits
Symplocos costatifructa is used in traditional medicine for treating skin diseases, fever, and inflammation. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Symplocos costatifructa has small, white flowers with five petals. The seeds are small and black. The seedlings have long, narrow leaves with pointed tips.
Cultivation and Propagation
Symplocos costatifructa can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring in a warm, sunny location. Cuttings should be taken in late summer or early autumn and planted in a well-drained soil. Water regularly and fertilize lightly.
Where to Find Symplocos costatifructa
Symplocos costatifructa is native to Mexico, found in the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Morelos, Nayarit, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, Sinaloa, Sonora, and Veracruz.