Alstonia scholaris

Alstonia scholaris is an evergreen tropical tree native to South Asia to Southeast Asia. This tree has various local names and important uses, both in tradition and in medicine.

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Scientific Name : Alstonia scholaris

Family : Apocynaceae

Common Name : Indian Pulai, White Cheesewood, Devil Tree, Blackboard

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CLASSIFICATIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS

Plant Growth Form : Tree

Lifespan (in Indonesia) : Perennial

BIOGEOGRAPHY

Native Distribution : Indoneisa, Indian subcontinent, Southern China, Indochina, Philippines, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Tropical Austalia

Native Habitat : The tree is primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. It thrives in various ecosystems, particularly in areas with moderate to high rainfall and well-drained soils.

DESCRIPTION AND ETHNOBOTANY

Growth Form

A tall, evergreen tree that can grow up to 40 meters, with a straight trunk and light grey, corky bark.

Foliage

Leaves are leathery, dark green, and glossy, arranged in whorls of 4–7 around the stem. The leaves are oblong or elliptical, with prominent veins and a smooth margin.

Flowers

The flowers are small, greenish-white, and bloom in dense clusters. They emit a strong fragrance, especially at night, attracting pollinators like moths.

Fruit

The fruit consists of long, slender, cylindrical follicles that grow in pairs. Inside, there are numerous seeds with silky hairs that aid in wind dispersal.

Habitat

This tree is native to tropical and subtropical regions. It thrives in lowland forests, riparian zones (along rivers and streams), and disturbed areas like roadsides. It grows at altitudes from sea level up to 1,200 meters and prefers well-drained soils in warm climates.

LANDSCAPING FEATURES

Desirable Plant Features : Ornamental Foliage, Ornamental Flowers, Fragrant (Flowers) (Time Independent, Day)

Landscape Uses                  : Suitable for Roadsides, General, Shade Providing Tree / Palm

FAUNA, POLLINATION AND DISPERSAL

Fauna Pollination                 : Butterfly-Attracting

Dispersal Associated

Fauna

PLANT CARE AND PROPAGATION

Light Preference : Full Sun

Water Preference : Moderate Water

Plant Growth Rate : Moderate

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