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Alphitonia spp.
Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific
Overview
Alphitonia spp. is a genus of about 20 evergreen trees and large shrubs in the family Rhamnaceae, native to Southeast Asia, eastern Australia, and the Pacific islands. Mature height ranges from 5 to 30 m (16-100 ft), the tallest species forming straight-trunked rainforest trees and the smaller ones bushy pioneers of clearings. The alternate, simple leaves are 4-15 cm (1.6-6 in) long, dark green above and densely white- to rust-felted beneath, so the canopy flashes pale as the wind turns the foliage. Small greenish-white flowers cluster in the leaf axils and branch tips, followed by rounded black fruits 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 in) across that hold the seed in a red, waxy coat. Crushed leaves and bark lather in water because of their saponin content, giving rise to the name soap tree. Alphitonia spp. grows in rainforest, wet sclerophyll forest, and regrowth on disturbed ground, often springing up quickly after fire or clearing. Most species are frost-tender and need warmth and steady moisture when young. The wood of larger species is hard and reddish and has been cut for timber.
Native Range
Native to Southeast Asia, eastern and northern Australia, and the Pacific islands, growing in rainforest, wet eucalypt forest, and regrowth on cleared land.Suggested Uses
Grown as shade, street, and revegetation trees in warm-climate gardens and as quick cover for cleared or eroded land. The lathering foliage has been used traditionally as a soap substitute and the wood for timber.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height16'5" - 98'5"
Width/Spread13'1" - 39'4"
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 5-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight