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dillenia
Scientific Name: Dillenia
Family: Dilleniaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
About the Genus Dillenia
Dillenia is a genus comprising approximately 100 species of flowering plants. These plants belong to the family Dilleniaceae and are native to tropical and subtropical regions of southern Asia and Australasia. They are sometimes grown for their foliage and magnolia-like flowers, which are followed by fruit.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Dillenia species are trees that reach impressive heights.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Dilleniaceae
- Order: Dilleniales
- Genus: Dillenia
- Synonyms:
- Wormia (for certain species)
Species Highlights
- Dillenia indica (Elephant Apple):
- Native to southeastern Asia, ranging from India to southwestern China and Vietnam.
- Common names include chulta, chalta (Bengali), elephant-apple, and hondapare tree.
- Sometimes referred to as Dillenia speciosa and Dillenia elliptica.
- Valued for its timber and as a source of tannin.
- Dillenia philippinensis (Katmon):
- Endemic to the Philippines and popular among Filipino garden enthusiasts.
- Considered useful for urban greening.
- Dillenia suffruticosa (Simpoh Ayer):
- Found in tropical Southeast Asia, specifically in secondary forests and swampy ground.
- Also known as Wormia suffruticosa.
- Occurs as a shrubby tree, growing vigorously in eroded areas.
- Dillenia alata:
- Synonym: Wormia alata DC.
- Dillenia pentagyna:
- Has shown antidiabetic activity and enzyme inhibitory properties.
Distribution and Habitat
- The genus Dillenia is native to tropical and subtropical regions of southern Asia and Australasia.
- Specific distribution examples:
- Dillenia indica: Southeastern Asia, from India to southwestern China and Vietnam, south through Thailand to Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines.
- Dillenia philippinensis: Endemic to the Philippines.
- Dillenia suffruticosa: Tropical Southeast Asia.
Morphological Characteristics
- Leaves: Simple, large, alternate or spirally arranged. Petioles channeled above.
- Flowers: Solitary or in clusters.
Ecological Role
- One source describes one species as a "rank tropical weed".
Traditional Uses and Research
- Dillenia indica is used in some regions for wound healing and possesses antioxidant properties.