Aphananthe philippinensis — a medium houseplant
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Aphananthe philippinensis

Aphananthe Philippinensis

Updated · 5 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Aphananthe philippinensis, commonly known as the Philippine aphananthe or kalantas, is a tree species native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Cannabaceae family and can grow up to 30 meters tall. The tree has a straight trunk with smooth, gray bark and features large, glossy, oval-shaped leaves with pointed tips. The leaves are dark green on the top and lighter underneath.

The Philippine aphananthe produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters along the branches. These flowers bloom during the summer months, from May to June.

The fruit of this plant is small, round, and black when ripe, containing a single seed that can be used for propagation.

This plant has various uses, particularly in timber production due to its strong wood, which is ideal for furniture making and construction. Additionally, its bark possesses medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as fever and diarrhea.

Overall, Aphananthe philippinensis is a significant species in Southeast Asia, both ecologically and economically, supporting local communities who rely on it for their livelihoods.

CARE GUIDE

How to keep Aphananthe Philippinensis.

Pruning

Axe handle wood benefits greatly from early spring pruning, which helps shape the plant and promote healthy growth. Begin by removing any dead or diseased branches. Next, thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation. Be careful to avoid cutting into old wood, as this ensures robust new growth and enhances the plant's overall health and longevity.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Aphananthe
Family
Cannabaceae
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Wild holly en Axe-handle-wood en Asbestos-tree en Grey handlewood en Rough-leaf-elm en Rough-leaf-hickory en Native elm
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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