Phaleria

Jack, 1822

Mahkota Dewa (for P. macrocarpa)

Phaleria is a of approximately 25 of flowering plants in the Thymelaeaceae. Species range from Sri Lanka through Malesia, Papuasia, northern and eastern Australia, and islands of the western Pacific. The genus is valued for medicinal applications, with Phaleria macrocarpa particularly noted for producing agarwood and containing bioactive compounds with hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative properties. Phaleria nisidai holds traditional importance in Palau as a medicinal panacea.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phaleria: /fəˈlɪəriə/

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Habitat

Tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, Malesia, and the western Pacific; specific occupy varied from lowland to montane forests.

Distribution

Sri Lanka to Malesia, Papuasia, northern and eastern Australia, and islands of the western Pacific.

Seasonality

Peak flowering and fruiting season January to March, based on observations of cultivated specimens at Bogor Garden.

Life Cycle

Seeds exhibit rapid germination, with 10% germinating within one day of planting. Fallen seeds show higher germination rates than picked seeds. Seedling establishment in natural settings may be limited by thick ground cover and low light penetration.

Human Relevance

Phaleria macrocarpa produces agarwood and is used medicinally for cancer, allergies, diabetes, and liver conditions; standardized extract Proliverenol (Veprolin™) developed for hepatoprotective applications. Phaleria nisidai used in Palau as a traditional panacea ('delal a kar', 'mother of medicines').

Similar Taxa

DaisClosest related based on phylogenetic analysis; both members of Thymelaeoideae . Distinguished by morphological and geographic differences.

Misconceptions

The name 'Phaleria' is also applied to a of ( ), which is taxonomically unrelated to the genus.