Portia Tree
Thespesia populnea
Description
A small, salt-tolerant tree or shrub commonly found in coastal areas. It has broad, heart-shaped leaves and showy, hibiscus-like yellow flowers that turn maroon or purple as they age and wilt.
Common Uses
Daily Life Uses
- Often planted as a coastal windbreak and for shade.
- A yellow dye can be extracted from the flowers.
Medical Uses
- The bark, leaves, and flowers are used in traditional medicine across the Pacific to treat a variety of skin diseases and inflammation.
Industrial Uses
- The durable, termite-resistant wood is highly valued for boatbuilding, high-quality furniture, and woodcarving.
- A strong fiber can be made from the bark.
General Uses
- It is considered a sacred tree in some Polynesian cultures.
Fun Facts
The beautifully grained wood is sometimes called "Pacific Rosewood" for its appearance and quality. The flowers only last for a day, opening as yellow in the morning and changing color by evening.
Location
Lat: -8.67
Lon: 115.21