Grand Devil’s – Claws (Kemudu)

Pisonia grandis

Description

Pisonia grandis is a medium to large, soft-wooded, irregularly branched tree, up to 7 m tall. The leaves are thin, broad and usually range from pale yellow to almost white when in full sun, whereas in shady locations, the leaves are darker. The bark is smooth and white-gray. The sweet-smelling flowers are green, small, borne in small globular clusters. The fruits are small, hairy and borne in rows. The seeds are hairy and easily stick to bird feathers making it easier to disperse.

Place of origin

The Philippines, Sri Lanka

Ethnobotanical uses

The leaves are traditionally used as a vegetable by local tribes in Central Australia. They are also part of a traditional Maldivian dish called “mas huni”.

IUCN conservation status

None