Phaleria clerodendron
scented daphne
THYMELAEACEAE
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Description
The scented daphne is a regular garden plant around Cairns. It usually remains a shrub in cultivation but in the wild can achieve heights well over 6m. Masses of sweetly scented flowers occur sporadically throughout the year on the trunk and branches and are followed by vividly coloured fruit. Some sources indicate that the fruit are toxic to humans.
Cultivation
Phaleria clerodendron will thrive in partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. It is easily propagated from fresh seed and can be grown from cuttings. In good conditions it is fast growing.
Etymology
phaleros = with a patch of shining white; in reference to white flowers
clerodendron = resemblance to the genus Clerodendron (Clerodendrum
)
