Dillenia philippinensis Rolfe

Etymology Genus After Johann Jacob Dillen, an 18th century German botanist
Species After Philippines, where it is found naturally in
Family Dilleniaceae
Synonyms -
Common Names Philippine Dillenia, Katmon
Status Exotic: Cultivated Only
Form Small tree
Native Distribution Philippines

Diagnostics:

Dillenia philippinensis is a small shrubby tree. It is easy to tell from its large attractive flowers, which come in five white petals and a red centre. The leaves are serrated along the margins and has a non-persistent stipule along the leaf stalk that will turn brown and wilt off eventually.


Interesting Facts:

The Philippine Dillenia, as the name implies, is only found naturally in Philippines. It is widespread in the country, and found everywhere from lowland and mountainous areas, except for the Palawan cluster of islands (Orate & LaFrankie, 2011).


The Philippine Dillenia as a small tree cultivated in Sengkang.

Winged stipule at the leaf stalk will wilt as the leaf mature.

The leaf has serrated margins. Note the wilting wing at the base.

The white flowers with red centre are large and attractive.

References

Orate MJ & JV LaFrankie. (2011) Dillenia philippensis. Flora of Philippines, University of Philippines. http://www.philippineflora.info. Accessed on 14-Sep-2013.


Author: Siyang
Posted: 2013-09-14 / Modified: 2017-12-25


Google Ads