Tree Species Information

Polyalthia longifolia leaves
Polyalthia longifolia flower
Polyalthia longifolia tree

About

Species Name
Polyalthia longifolia
Family
Annonaceae
Local Name
Masquerade tree, False Ashoka

Description

It is a tall evergreen tree with a straight bole growing up to 20 metres tall.

LEAVES: The leaves are simple, long, narrow and lanceolate, dark-green, glossy and with wavy margins.

FLOWERS: The flowers are complete bisexual with androecium and gynoecium including stamens, carpels and ovary.

BARK: It is dark and greyish brown in colour.

PROPERTIES: It possesses significant pharmacological and biological properties such as antibacterial, antiulcer, antitumor, antifungal and antioxidant properties.

 

Uses

1. It is a medicinal plant used for the treatment of fever, skin diseases, diabetes, hypertension and helminthiasis.

2. It serves as an ornamental plant.

3. The bark is a good source of fibre.

4. It helps to control bleeding in pile.

5. It helps in blood purification and prevention of further skin allergies. As it removes toxins, it serves to clear the complexion.

6.The extracts from the tree can also be used to soothe burns and skin irritations.

7.It can also be used in the prevention of internal bleeding and helps to deal with stomach swelling and inflammation.

8. It helps to prevents diarrhea.

Locations (Institutions)

Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria (FUTA), Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, Nigeria (FECA)