Dillenia luzoniensis at the Makiling Botanical Gardens

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Eleven species from the genus Dillenia is known from the Philippines, including this one, D. luzoniensis. Whilst most Dillenia species are trees, this species is more of a large shrub, with dense stems that reach to the ground. The species, despite its species name, is known from many localities in the islands of Palawan and Balabac, as well as, of course, Luzon. The plants are characteristic components in seasonally dry forests and hence are known mainly from the western side of the archipelago, which experiences a distinct Type 1 climate. This climate type has a long dry period lasting, on average, five months per year.


In contrast to D. philippinensis- the most common and widespread species in the Philippines- the flowers of D. luzoniensis are yellow, with reflexing perianth segments. Like many Dillenia, the large leaves are prominently veined, with reddish-brown new growths. This Dillenia is said to grow to 5 meters tall, but I haven't seen any at that height. In fact, this is more of an unkempt sprawling shrub than anything else, at least to my eyes.


The species was first described as Wormia luzoniensis by Sebastian Vidal y Soler, a Spanish botanist and forester who was appointed Chief for the Forest Flora of the Philippines in 1876. The type specimen was collected in the province of Zambales.

Dillenia luzoniensis is poorly represented in private and botanical gardens, and one of the places to see it is at the Makiling Botanical Gardens in Los Banos, Laguna. This part of Laguna has a Type 3 climate, which means that the dry period is shorter, typically at three months. However, the specimens seem to be growing well in the moister climate. When you are in Palawan, you can also see thickets of this species in old and abandoned minings sites as well as near streams and rivers in lowland primary and secondary forests. The plants are easy to spot- they are always in flower!

Exposed seeds of Dillenia luzoniensis

A sunburst to brighten any day!

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