Moluccan Ironwood, Ipil

Intsia bijuga

Physical Characteristics

Intsia bijuga is an evergreen Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 25 m (82ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Bees, Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid and saline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Africa; E. Asia - India, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, New Guinea to Australia and the Pacific Islands.

Habitats

Edible Uses

The seeds can be eaten after careful preparation[303 ]. They are traditionally soaked in salt water for 3 - 4 days and then boiled[303 ]. It is a famine food. Fruit may be poisonous.

Medicinal Uses

Antidiarrhoeal Antirheumatic Dysentery Urinary The bark is used in treating persons suffering from a urinary condition (characterised by very dark urine)[303 ]. It is also used in the treatment of rheumatism, dysentery and diarrhoea[303 ]. An infusion of the bark is given to women after delivery[303 ].

Known Hazards

None known