White Siris, Tall Albizia, Forest Siris

Albizia procera

Physical Characteristics

Albizia procera is a deciduous Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 25 m (82ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. The flowers are pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

E. Asia - Indian subcontinent, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Leaves Seedpod Edible Uses: Gum Edible portion: Leaves, Pods, Vegetable. The cooked leaves are eaten as a vegetable[ 303 ]. In times of scarcity the bark can be ground into a powder, mixed with flour and eaten[ 303 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Cancer White siris is commonly used in traditional medicines. Some research has been carried out into the medical activities of the plant and a number of active compounds have been recorded[ 303 ]. All parts of the plant are reported to show anti-cancer activity[ 303 ]. The roots contain alpha-spinasterol and a saponin that has been reported to possess spermicidal activity at a dilution of 0.008%. A decoction of the bark is given for the treatment of rheumatism and haemorrhage[ 303 ]. It is also considered useful in treating problems of pregnancy and for stomach-ache[ 303 ]. The leaves are poulticed onto ulcers[ 303 ].

Known Hazards

The seeds contain proceranin A, which is toxic to mice and rats when administered parenterally and orally; the interperitoneal LD50 for mice is 15 mg/kg body weight. Hydrocyanic acid has been identified as occurring in the tree[ 303 ].