Premna serratifolia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Premna serratifolia |
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| Leaves and young fruit of P. serratifolia | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Premna
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| Species: |
serratifolia
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| Synonyms | |
Premna serratifolia is a small tree or shrub. It belongs to the plant family Lamiaceae. This plant is also known by many local names around the world. Some of these names include Arani in India, Alagaw in the Philippines, and Chosm in Palau.
The plant produces flowers and fruits between May and November each year. When it flowers, it attracts many butterflies and bees. This helps with pollination.
Where It Grows
This plant usually grows in wet, sandy soil. You can often find it near seacoasts and in mangrove forests. It also grows in scrub jungles.
In the Philippines, especially on Cebu Island, Premna serratifolia is found in the wet, inner forests of Southern Cebu. People in Cebu commonly call this plant "Kulawin".
What It Looks Like
Premna serratifolia can grow up to 7 meters (about 23 feet) tall.
Leaves
Its leaves are simple and grow opposite each other on the stem. Each leaf has a stalk, called a petiole, which is about 4 to 14 millimeters long. The leaves themselves are usually oval-shaped. They can be from 2.5 to 8.5 centimeters long and 2 to 7.2 centimeters wide. The edges of the leaves can be smooth or slightly toothed.
Flowers and Fruit
The flowers of Premna serratifolia are greenish-white. They grow in clusters at the ends of branches. Each flower has a small cup-shaped part called a calyx. The petals form a short tube with five lobes. Inside the flower, there are four stamens and an ovary that develops into fruit.
The fruit is a small, round, purple drupe. A drupe is a type of fruit with a fleshy outer part and a hard pit inside, like a cherry. The seeds inside the fruit are oblong.
Medicinal Uses
This plant has been used for a long time in traditional Indian medicine. Scientists have studied parts of the plant, like its root wood and root bark. They have found certain natural compounds in it. These compounds are being studied for their possible health benefits. For example, some studies have looked at their antioxidant properties.
