Dillenia luzoniensis at the Makiling Botanical Gardens
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 h...