Philippine Guidebook On Plant Species Suitable For Urban Greening Ebook

Philippine Guidebook
on Plant Species Suitable for Urban Greening
ISBN 978-621-02-1962-3
Copyright © 2022 by Forest Management Bureau (FMB) -
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a

retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or
otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher.
FMB-DENR
Address: FMB Building, DENR Compound, 1100 Visayas Avenue,
Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Author: FMB-DENR
Consultant: Lorenz G. Palec - Palec & Amigos Urban Environ
Tel. No.: (632) 8927-4788

Fax No.: (632) 8928-9313
E-mail: fmb@denr.gov.ph
Website: https://forestry.denr.gov.ph/
ISBN 978-621-02-1962-3
Printed and Published by: Central Book Supply, Inc.
927 Phoenix Bldg., Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
www.central.com.ph
Acknowledgment
This publication would not have been possible without the

contributions of the following:
Content Contributors: Lorenz G. Palec

Lou Reginald B. Alcantara
Rogelio T. Andrada II
Giezel Marie M. Arceo
Patrick Anthony M. Calalo
Ian Paulo G. Mendoza
Fort P. Molina
Jershon V. Pagilagan
Editor: Maria Niña M. Cuasay
Graphic Artist: Jim Mark S. Lejano
Photo Contributors: Lou Reginald B. Alcantara

Ervic Largo
Ma. Angelica L. Lucas
Ian Paulo G. Mendoza
Edreian Job B. Mombay
Tia Morris
Lorenz G. Palec
Richmond G. Palec
4
This Guidebook
is dedicated to millions of Filipinos
who live in our urban areas
FOREWORD
The Philippines, being one of the fastest urbanizing countries in East Asia
and the Pacific region, is currently facing various challenges brought about
by urbanization and climate change, especially in Metro Manila, one of the
country’s fastest-growing megacities.
As urban planners, engineers, architects, and environmentalists found Urban

Greening as a more sustainable, nature-based solution to alleviate the problems
of the cities’ growing population, the Forest Management Bureau (FMB) of
the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) published this
simplified manual, suitable for every Filipino to practice the proper ways of
creating a greener and more environmentally-healthy place to live in, through
the proper selection of species suitable for the purpose.
The Philippine Guidebook on Plant Species Suitable for Urban Greening

provides various information on different species of plants in the country,
suitable and beneficial for urban greening. Information shared per species
includes its characteristics and shall guide the readers suitable for the species
based on different growing conditions. Different images are also provided
for readers’ reference and for the familiarity of the species. This manual also
aims to raise awareness among the people residing in the Philippines on the
native species recommended to be planted, and species of concern that may
be detrimental to the people or the environment.
We are in full hopes that this guidebook will serve as a tool for every Filipino,
especially our partners in achieving the roles as stewards of the environment,
and contribute to the successful conservation and preservation of our
environment and natural resources, for today and for future generations.
TIRSO P. PARIAN, JR., CESO IV

Director
8
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Foreword 6
Introduction 10
Benefits of Urban Greening 14
Plant Selection Guide 16
How to Use This Guidebook 20
Plant Palettes
Trees 22
Bamboos 58
Palms and Cycads 65
Shrubs and Hedge Plants 80
Herbs 115
Vines 126
Aerial Plants 133
Ground Covers 137
Turf and Lawn 146
Species of Concern in Urban Greening 149
Glossary 160
Index 162
References 166
INTRODUCTION
Urban Greening in the Philippines
The science, art, and practice of establishment and management of greenspaces in and
around community ecosystems for the psychological, social, aesthetic, economic, and
environmental benefits that vegetation brings society together are collectively referred
to as “urban greening.” Vegetation elements like shrubs, grasses, vines, herbs, and trees
are employed in this activity. Furthermore, the management of other resources found
in or nearby urban areas is also included. Specifically, urban greenery is found in public
and private spaces like parks, parkways, greenbelts, promenades, cemeteries, reservation
camps, hospitals, and schools, including industrial and commercial areas.
Areas where people live and work are referred to as “urban areas.” This built-up and heavily
populated area includes the city core, the suburbs, and permanently populated zones. The
criteria and definitions for what constitutes urban areas vary greatly in different countries.
In the Philippines, to resolve and standardize the definition of “urban,” the Philippine
Statistics Authority (PSA) uses the smallest political unit, the barangay. A barangay must
comply with a set of criteria to be considered an urban area. The Philippine Statistics
Office (2003) defines urban areas as follows:
1. Barangays with a population size of 5,000 or more;

2. Barangays with at least one (1) establishment with a minimum of 100
employees; and
3. Barangay with 5 or more establishments with a minimum of 10
employees, and 5 or more facilities.
If the facility is not present in the barangay, the presence of facilities within a two-kilometer
radius of the barangay hall is considered. PSA automatically categorizes all barangays in
the National Capital Region as “urban barangays.”
The Philippines is a highly urbanized country (Asian Development Bank, 2014). Since
1980, the urbanization rate has been 37.2%. According to the Philippine Statistics Office
(2022), urban barangays housed 58.93 million people or 54.0% of the total 109.03 million
population of the Philippines in 2020.
10
Issues and Concerns in Species
Selection for Urban Greening
Species selection is part of the first stage
of urban greening. Yet, for the previous
greening projects in the Philippines, this
phase was not given much attention, which
eventually resulted in liability greenspaces
rather than assets that maximize their
benefits for the urban population. A good
choice of species for greening will result in
good greenspaces.
One problem that can be seen in species

selection for greening is the site-species
match. There are plants that should not
be planted in urban settings but are seen
as dominating the urban landscape.
Examples are coconuts (Cocos nucifera)
and mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla).
Both species are supposed to be planted
in plantations or production forests, not in
urban greenspaces where their drupes and
fruits are so hard that they pose danger
to property and human lives. In this book,
certain species that pose danger with
invasive characteristics and those that infest
or kill other plants will be presented.
Caliraya Lake, Cavinti, Laguna
11
Another issue was not considering the ultimate size of planting materials, which
was the result of a lack of horticultural and arboricultural information about
species. In the Philippine urban setting, the ultimate basis of species selection is
aesthetics, specifically colors. There is nothing wrong with choosing aesthetically
appealing plants, but considering horticultural and arboricultural requirements
will make greening more sustainable, require less maintenance, and lower the
risk to property and human lives. To address this issue, this book will help provide
criteria for choosing urban species based on their arboricultural and horticultural
characteristics.
Lastly, our greenspace is now dominated by exotic species because of the

availability of information on how to grow them. This book will offer numerous
native plants to use in urban areas, including import cultivars that are seen as
having been adopted already in the ever-changing conditions of greenspaces yet
do not pose an invasive or negative impact on the totality of greenspaces.
Greenspaces are constructed and operated to serve various environmental,

social, and economic functions. Intricate decision-making on the kind of species
to plant must be made and properly guided to achieve the said functions and
other benefits
Nowadays, interest in using native trees and plants has become the new strategy,
not only in literature but also in local and national greening programs, designs,
and initiatives because this generation realized that using native species would
maximize the tangible and intangible benefits of such species. As the general
rule says, “you can never go wrong with native species.”
12
If one goes to the cities of Australia, it is This is because products that appear to be
evident that they take pride in their native imported will undoubtedly sell to Filipinos.
trees like Jacaranda, colorful Syzygiums,
and Eucalyptus. They are investing a lot This book will serve as a guide and familiarize
to remove invasive plants and take serious us with the plants that are recommended
action on biosafety. That is also the case for future greening programs in urban
in other well-planned cities, as they fully areas. It will also include some non-native
understand the value of native vegetation. plants that have been adopted locally and
In the case of our greenspaces, we did not no longer possess invasive characteristics
standardize what species should be used. that cause negative impacts on people and
property. The book also presented various
In general, Filipinos have a cultural cultivars suited for urban greening.
preference for imported goods over locally
produced goods. This is a consequence This book will be a useful reference
of the colonial mentality that is deeply for greening programs planned for
ingrained in the Filipino consciousness. Our the 7,957 barangays, or 18.9 percent of
fascination with foreign things is reflected urban barangays out of the total 42,046
even in our choice of plants for our home barangays in the Philippines in 2020
gardens. For decades, we populated our (Philippine Statistics Office 2022). This book
cities with non-native Mahogany, Rain will also be a helpful manual to various
tree, Acacia, Fire tree, and the like. Even stakeholders, local government units, and
in township development, our planners the private sector in their continuous and
and designers tend to create themed aggressive efforts to make our cities and
developments such as the palm cities urban areas greener and more sustainable
of Dubai and California, Swiss concept places to live in.
subdivisions, and European-looking real
estate that is not fully compatible with the
country’s prevailing climatic conditions.
13
BENEFITS OF URBAN GREENING
Over the years, urbanization has brought the “graying” of the landscape. The decades of
giving preference and priority to built-up structures have led to a monotonous landscape,
eventually becoming the identity of urban areas. However, with their inter-generational
dimensions, sustainability principles have recently breathed new life into urban areas.
The concept of sustainable and livable cities has emerged, eventually challenging the
traditional concept of urban areas. Subsequently, with the realization that nature is, in
fact, a crucial part of urban areas, the change in perspective brought about the shift to
viewing urbanized areas as ecosystems.
In recent years, urban greening has been one of the most evident proofs of the shifting
paradigms of urban development. Incorporating natural elements, primarily vegetation,
into the design and development concepts of the built environment has led to many
opportunities to redefine the urban ecosystem. Among the drivers of this shift are the
elements that make urban greening essential and beneficial to society.
The benefits of urban greening can be grouped into several categories: ecological,
practical/aesthetic, and socio-cultural.
Ecological benefits:
1. The establishment of vegetation leads to the introduction and improvement of

biological diversity.
2. It provides habitats for animals such as insects, reptiles, birds, and small mammals.
3. Urban vegetation influences water distribution because it affects processes in the
water cycle like interception, evapotranspiration, and infiltration.
4. As a source of organic matter, urban vegetation improves and enriches the soil.
5. Urban greening improves the local climate through the vegetation’s shading effect
and constant release of oxygen into the air.
Practical and Aesthetic Benefits:
1. Strategically planted vegetation of all types helps reduce the impact of wind and
noise pollution in urban areas.
2. Urban vegetation can be grown to create cover: both horizontally and vertically.
The horizontal cover protects the ground against erosion, while the vertical cover
provides privacy and screens out unsightly areas by serving as a living wall.
3. Urban greening can also establish a useful barrier to protect pedestrians or to
section off areas that need protection.
4. Urban greenery is being tapped to filter and absorb air pollutants and particles
suspended in the air.
5. It improves the appearance of the urban landscape by providing color, texture, and
natural elements. Vegetation accentuates, breaks up, or unifies urban architectural
designs.
6. Due to landscape enhancements through urban greening, property values increase.
14
Socio-cultural:
1. Due to the incorporation of greenery in urban area design, it is used in the branding
and image development of the urban area.
2. The maintenance of urban greenery creates jobs for local people and improves the
market value of urban areas.
3. Through the engagement of local communities in managing urban greenery,
educational and moral fulfillment can also be realized.
4. Urban greenery provides conducive and unique venues for recreation and leisure
and, incidentally, places for socialization.
5. Urban greenery provides opportunities for physical activity, exercise, and other
related activities that promote good health and well-being.
6. Urban greenery improves people’s mood, blood pressure, and self-esteem.
The range of benefits that urban greenery possesses and provides to society is a solid
testament to its importance. As more people realize its benefits not only to themselves
but to the environment and society in general, its incorporation in future urban planning
and development will gain momentum that will carry through several decades.
15
PLANT SELECTION GUIDE
Below are the characteristics and generalized set of standards for choosing species for
urban greening. However, thorough species-site characterizations should be done in
every urban location due to site-specific specialized requirements. This will help future
greening managers and proponents to assess which plants should be selected. The criteria
are grouped into four namely: (1) Design intent and functions; (2) Existing planting site
conditions; (3) Maintenance requirements; and (4) Tolerance.
1. DESIGN INTENT AND FUNCTIONS

A. CHARACTER
Remarks Remarks Standard*

Natural character The natural character Use the existing tree and enrich it
Species of the site if necessary
Key / feature Signature Identification of native trees and Reduce the overuse of street
tree species exotic / non-invasive trees species; ensure diversity
B. VISUAL IMPACT
Visual Remarks Standard*

Aesthetic Tree As per design
Characteristics
Color As per design
Form / Architecture Common tree forms: Vase,

columnar, round, weeping,
pyramidal
VASE COLUMNAR ROUND WEEPING PYRAMIDAL
Size Upright compact plants or

rounded compact plants
UPRIGHT, COMPACT ROUNDED, COMPACT

PLANTS PLANTS
Texture Coarse, Medium, Fine
COARSE
MEDIUM
FINE
16
Visual Remarks Standard*
Flowering or A. Hard fruit, soft fruit

Fruit-bearing B. Poisonous or
non-poisonous flowers
Foliage change Evergreen or deciduous Depends on the effect to achieve
C. SUSTAINABILITY
Character Remarks Standard*

Diversity This pertains to the natural Use existing plants.
character of the site. Ensure Follow 10-20-30 rules.
diversity to make greenspaces • No single species will compose
resistant to pests, disease, and 10% of the total greening species
climate. • No single genus will compose
20% of the total greening species
• No single-family will compose
30% of the total greening species
2. EXISTING PLANTING SITE CONDITIONS
Compatibility Remarks Standard*

Available Space Constrained or not? Use compact trees for
constrained spaces; use large
growing trees for large spaces.
The available volume for a large
growing tree is 30 cubic meters.
Infrastructure
challenges
• Vertical clearances Height of tree (upon maturity) Height must be below the
overhead electrical wires; 30% of
the building elevation must still
be seen upon tree maturity.
Depth of embedment
• Horizontal clearances Setback from infrastructure Available space requirement for

street trees
The root system, and root pattern The available volume for a large
growing tree is 30 cubic meters;
a distance from the underground
utilities
Root-to-shoot ratio Setback from infrastructure and

stability
Soil Soil type or quality
Soil structure Low, Moderate, and High

(compacted or loose)
PH of soil Low, Moderate, and High
17
3. MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
Maintenance
Remarks Standard*
Proceduce
Maintenance High or Low?
Pruning Frequency Light, moderate, or heavy? Trees incompatible with

formative or hedge-type pruning
are not planted below existing
electrical infrastructure.
Irrigation method Shallow or deep? For root management
4. TOLERANCE
Tolerance Remarks Standard*

Heat Heat vulnerability risk of tree Moderate to high
species
Low, Moderate, and High
Light intensity Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high
Waterlogging Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high
Pest and diseases Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high

resistance
Wind resistance Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high
Roadside Pollution Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high
Drought Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high
*Further site-specific requirements needed
18
Esplanade, Iloilo City, Philippines
19
Esplanade, Iloilo City, Philippines
20
4
2 3
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDEBOOK

1. This section includes the common names, botanical names, and family names of the
plants. This is essential for further study needed by the user of this guidebook because
it contains substantial information about plant species suitable for urban greening.
2. These are plant images that can be used in the field to cross-check identification for
familiarity.
3. This is a brief description of the plant, containing its natural distribution, distinct
characteristics that make it suitable for urban greening, and specific recommendations
for best use to maximize its potential for urban greening.
4. This code is used to denote whether a plant is native or non-native. This section is vital
as certain developers, urban planners, and landscape architects require and push for
the use of native plants. It is also consistent with a government policy, such as Section 14
(Open Space Utilization) from the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the National
Green Building Code of the Philippines (2015)1, which states that open spaces “shall be
vegetated with indigenous and adaptable species,” with no exception to this provision.
A botanical guidebook is usually structured by grouping plants based on their

family names. Such type of arrangement is intended for botanists and taxonomists.
However, for the purpose of this guidebook, the plants for urban greening will be grouped
and arranged according to their growth habit as this is how the planners, designers,
urban foresters, and horticulturists present the plant palette. This will be presented in the
following order:
Trees Vines
Bamboos Aerial Plants
Palms and Cycads Ground Covers
Shrubs and Hedge Plants Turf and Lawn
Herbs
1
DPWH (2015). The Philippines Green Building Code. A referral code of the National Building Code of the Philippines
(P.D. 1096). Open Space Utilization, sec. 14.2, pp. 28-29. Retrieved November 4, 2022, from https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/
DPWH/sites/default/files/laws_codes_orders/PgbcBooklet23March.pdf
21
TREES
A tree has a common single trunk that supports leaves and
branches. It serves to delineate spaces, define boundaries,
show focal points, and symbolize the permanence of
greenspaces.
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Native
Common Names: Dita

Botanical Name: Alstonia scholaris
Family Name: Apocynaceae
IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern
A native tree to the Philippines, the Dita is an

evergreen tree that can grow up to 40 meters in
height and even further in its natural environment
(Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
One particular characteristic of the Dita tree is its

growth habit to develop crowns that are pagoda
shaped. The smooth and whitish barks somehow
always grow only in horizontal and vertical directions.
The flowers are white and are produced by the tree
in stalks.
In the urban setting, this tree tower along with

other trees and palms, and are usually planted in
strips. This tree can also be observed on sidewalks
providing shade.
23
Non-Native
Common Names: Araucaria, or

Norfolk Island Pine
Botanical Name: Araucaria heterophylla
Family Name: Araucariaceae
IUCN Conservation Status: Vulnerable
A Gymnosperm, or a non-flowering tree, the

Araucaria tree is often mistaken as a pine tree in the
urban setting. This is due to its conical growth form.
The Araucaria is native to Australia and can reach
heights of 30 meters in its lifetime (Flora Fauna Web,
2022).
This tree produces cones and the leaves can be

located on branchlets. Aside from its distinct
towering heights, it also appears in dark green colors
all year round. It is well suited to outdoors under the
full sun, and requires moderate to little watering for
maintenance.
This tree is great for planting in tree lines, near tall

building structures or in formal gardens planted in
major entry points as it introduces a different theme
in the landscape.
24
Native
Common Names: Aunasin

Botanical Name: Ardisia pyramidalis
Family Name: Primulaceae
IUCN Conservation Status: Not Evaluated
This small shrubby tree is gradually becoming a

popular ornamental plant, especially in botanical
gardens. Ardisia pyramidalis grows in the remaining
primary forests of the Philippines. Its pink star-
shaped flowers are neatly arranged in large
branching clusters, contrasting with its bright green
leaves. After the flowers have fallen, berries that are
equally attractive will start to develop.
When used in planting, make sure not to plant it in

full sun. It will survive, but the leaves will be smaller
and the flowers, fewer. It naturally grows under more
enormous trees in the wild, so planting them in a
semi-shaded area will be perfect for them. They love
regular watering too.
25
Non-Native
Common Names: Neem Tree

Botanical Name: Azadirachta indica
Family Name: Meliaceae
Native to the Indian subcontinent, Myanmar and

China, this evergreen tree has become known
worldwide especially in the field of landscaping.It is
commonly used as shade trees in parks and other
commercial establishments. Its evergreen leaves
also serve as natural insect repellent (Orwa, 2009).
This tree can thrive in partly shaded areas but

best in full sunlight exposed areas. Even mainly an
evergreen, Neem tree sometimes shed its leaves
during summer. It is also easy to propagate since
it produces fruits in clusters drooping from its
spreading branches. Its white small flowers also
provide fragrance when blooming.
Its crescent moon-shaped leaflets forming the leaves

are perfect for giving shade while its fruits are found
to birds and repel insects.
26
Native
Common Names: Botong

Botanical Name: Barringtonia asiatica
Family Name: Lecythidaceae
A tree native to the coasts of the Indian Ocean and

the Western Pacific Ocean, this has been further
naturalized to Africa, Hawaii and other areas
worldwide (CABI, 2022).
Botong can grow up to 30 meters in height and

naturally grow across coastlines and sandy soils. It
is characterized by its broad leaves that are simple,
shiny and dark green. Young cuttings and sprouts
can be planted indoors as a substitute for expensive
plants such as fiddle leaf figs.
Its unique flowers appear to have multiple needles of

white to pink surrounded by white petals, although
it only lasts for one night. As the flowers turn into
fruits, they turn large that look nut-shaped, a hazard
to cars in parking spaces.
For propagations, Botong can be reproduced

asexually through cuttings. Naturally, it disperses
seeds through the water recurrence on the shores. It
thrives easily on full sun and well drained soil (Flora
Fauna Web, 2021).
27
Non-Native
Common Names: Napoleon’s Plume

Botanical Name: Bauhinia monandra
Family Name: Fabaceae
Napoleon’s Plume is native to Asia. This tree is one

of the most known ornamental plants in the world
(Jamadar, 2022).
This plant is known for its distinctive leaves which

mimic butterfly’s wings. It gives the illusion of
hundreds of green butterflies gathering nectar from
its lovely pinkish white flower blooming from the
tips of each drooping branch.
This plant can be propagated through seeds or

cuttings.
28
Non-Native
Common Names: Bottle Brush Tree, Red

Cascade, or Callistemon
Botanical Name: Callistemon viminalis
Family Name: Myrtaceae
Callistemon, which originated in Australia, has

beautiful flowers that bloom almost the whole year
round. Its flower looks like a baby milk bottle cleaning
brush. It was definitely an “It Thing” of gardening
since the 20th century in the Philippines! But these
days, it is considered an old-fashioned tree.
The Bottlebrush is a superb residential and

commercial tree. This tree is a woody shrub in nature
which is considered a small tree (up to 4 meters in
height). The flowers are incredible and are appealing
to nectar birds and insects like bees (Australian
National Botanic Gardens, 2012). Its branching
system forms a weeping effect that may look like it’s
touching the ground.
It can thrive in wet or flooded conditions like Marikina

City, yet can also survive in drought which makes
it a very low maintenance tree. Callistemon has a
very hard trunk and branches that make it ideal for
frequently typhoon-hit areas and in windy areas.
29
Native
Common Names: Bitaog, or Palo Maria

Botanical Name: Calophyllum inophyllum
Family Name: Calophyllaceae
The Bitaog is naturally occurring on the shoreline

across the archipelago. This medium tree is highly
tolerant to salt spray, sandy areas, and windy urban
areas.
It grows to lean sometimes but is very rare to be

observed to be uprooted during a moderately
intensed typhoon. Leaning growth habits bring
additional aesthetics also to urban areas. Plans of
staying long under its shade are concerning since its
hard round fruits might damage vehicles or might
fall on the head of people.
Moreover, its white bloom is very attractive too, and

it is essential for nectar-feeding insects in urban
areas. It is one of the best shade trees to use in urban
areas. Bitaog has leathery and glossy leaves that can
be used as a writing pad, and can actually last for a
week.
30
Native
Common Names: Ylang-Ylang

Botanical Name: Cananga odorata
Family Name: Annonaceae
A widely distributed tree in the tropics of Asia, the Ylang-

Ylang, is recorded in the Philippines as early as 1837 (Pelser,
2020). This tree is known to provide the best floral scents
from trees.
This tree can grow up to 20 meters in height. Towering

among other trees, it can produce foliage and flowers
throughout its height, providing a floral scent to its vicinity.
Its large dark green leaves grow anywhere from the tree,
making them seem to have irregular growth forms (Flora
Fauna Web, 2022).
The flowers produced are green to yellowish brown upon

maturity. And it is one of the most cultivated trees to produce
the scents for our perfumes. The oils from these flowers are
extracted and are traditionally used for medicinal purposes
(Tan, et. al., 2015).
As known for its scent, it is commonly cultivated in the

Philippines to be planted in rows in parks. Visiting Ylang-
ylang trees won’t be noticeable by the eyes initially, due to
its green flowers hidden in the big leaves. Floral scents come
first before people realize that they are nearby the trees.
31
Native
Common Names: Kalingag

Botanical Name: Cinnamomum mercadoi
Family Name: Lauraceae
IUCN Conservation Status: Near Threatened
A large tree native to the Philippines and can be

found in Babuyan Islands and Northern parts of
Luzon. It is also known as Philippine cinnamon.
Unlike other trees that are sought because of their

edible fruits or colorful flowers, Kalingag is sought
because of its aromatic scent. This scent does not
come from its flowers but from its rough, yellowish
bark (Torres, 2003). Its bark is harvested, dried and
used in food flavoring and culinary.
This tree, which is valued for its fragrant bark, is

currently endangered due to overharvesting and
continuous loss of forest cover.
32
Native
Common Names: Bagawak Morado, or

Philippine ‘Starburst Shrub’
Botanical Name: Clerodendrum
quadriloculare
Family Name: Lamiaceae
Bagawak Morado is native to Papua New Guinea and

the Philippines. It is one of the most eye-catching
trees. It has distinct oblong leaves with green color
in the upper surface while dark purple on the lower
surface (Wunderlin, 2022).
The other name for this tree is Philippine ‘starburst

shrub’. This name came from its clusters of blooming
flowers that look like cotton buds with pink tubes
when closed and create little fireworks effect
covering the entire crown of the tree when they
open.
It usually starts blooming in the month of December

and its full bloom can be witnessed during the
month of February.
33
Native
Common Names: Salingbobog, or

‘Balai-lamok’
Botanical Name: Crateva religiosa
Family Name: Capparaceae
Salingbobog is native to the Philippines. This

wonderful tree can be found naturally on the islands
of Palawan and the Sulu Archipelago (Pelser, 2021).
This tree is also known as the “Balai-lamok”, and it

is one of the most beautiful native flowering trees
in the Philippines. Relatively, this tree grows smaller
among other native trees, but it gets back with its
beautiful flowers.
The Salingbobog produces flowers with white petals

and pink long petioles. In full bloom, as the flowers
surround the whole crown of the trees, it appears as
vibrant as ever; whole trees in stretch appear with
light pink to white in color.
The flowers bloom usually around February to

March (GFRF, n.d.). Planting this is perfect under
full sun. The Salingbobog is now mostly cultivated
for ornamental use, perfect in floral parks providing
shade with colors in blooming seasons.
34
Native
Common Names: Handkerchief Tree, or

Balitbitan
Botanical Name: Cynometra ramiflora
With ever changing leaves color throughout the year

and with fruits that look like human brains, this tree
will never fail to amaze you! Its branching system
forms a round canopy and is ideal to be planted in
groups as shade trees along the path walks.
It is considered a small tree which makes it ideal for

residential development, commercial centers, and
street trees. It is also a beach species that can be
used for greening boulevards, shoreline, reclamation
areas, beach resorts and all coastal cities and
municipalities. It is naturally growing to Southeast
Asia including the Philippines and ranging up to
New Guinea.
35
Native
Common Names: Katmon

Botanical Name: Dillenia philippinensis
Family Name: Dilleniaceae
IUCN Conservation Status: Near Threatened
Endemic to the Philippines, this underutilized tree is

very abundant in the natural forests and riverbanks
of Quezon province. It is valued mainly for its fruit
that can be processed into jams and pickles but it
can also be utilized for its other properties (Ombico,
2017).
Its straight bole and evergreen leaves are best

suitable for windbreaks and its lush foliage provide
shade in malls and other commercial areas while
attracting birds with its beautiful white flowers. This
native tree brings not only beauty but also assists in
the recovery of the ecosystem by providing food for
different birds and insects.
36
Native
Common Names: Rainbow Tree, Bagras,

or Mindanao Gum
Botanical Name: Eucalyptus deglupta
This is the only native Eucalyptus species that can

be found in the northern hemisphere and naturally
found in Mindanao, Indonesia, and New Guinea! This
one is our Philippine pride, dubbed as one of the
most beautiful trees in the world.
It adds color in parks, and is considered as tall trees.

However, it is not recommended to use in streets
since it can damage above ground and below
ground utilities. But it is highly recommended in
urban parks, windbreaks for expressways and large
highways. It is drought resistant and can tolerate
sandy to clay soil.
37
Non-Native
Common Names: Variegated Weeping Fig

Botanical Name: Ficus benjamina ‘Variegata’
Family Name: Moraceae
This species is considered as small woody lianas that

form like a tree. It is favorite to be grown due to its
attractive white leaf margin. Its dense foliage can
be shaped into a topiary. It also grows best outdoors
but thrives well in shaded indoor environments, just
watch for some aphids and thrips as its sap is favorite
of these insects especially when put indoors. Some
utilize it too as bonsai material due to its capacity to
grow in shallow pots with very artistic root features.
It is easy to grow since it is highly tolerant to pollutants,

windy environment, and salt spray. It is highly
recommended as an accent plant in commercial and
residential complexes, since it is very responsive to
pruning, and this can be grown as hedge or low fence.
38
Native
Common Names: Ficus Heteropoda

Botanical Name: Ficus heteropoda
Found throughout the primary and secondary

forests of the Philippines, Ficus heteropoda is a large
fig species that can grow up to 20 meters tall. It has
shiny, light green, and oval leaves, resembling the
more common Ficus benghalensis, more popularly
called Ficus ‘Audrey’ in commercial trade.
This evergreen tree produces a large light brown

trunk, covering numerous clusters of yellow-orange
fig fruits when in season. It can bear fruit three to five
times a year, especially if it is growing near a body of
water. This tree species is definitely a butterfly and
bird magnet, best planted when making small forest
patches in the city.
Ficus heteropoda, just like most fig species, loves

the full sun. If anyone is planning to include this in
their garden landscape design, make sure to provide
enough space because this grows really big. One
more thing to note is that flies will abound when the
fruits start to ripen and fall.
39
Native
Common Names: Malibago, Malubago, or

Sea Hibiscus
Botanical Name: Hibiscus tiliaceus
Family Name: Malvaceae
Malibago, as its name suggests, is also known as

beach hibiscus. It is commonly found on beaches
and along coastlines. Because of its high salinity
tolerance, it can survive near the coast.
Malibago is distinguished by its crooked trunk &

branches which form a huge crown of leaves. These
crooked branches entangled with other branches
provide wind resistance, making them ideal for
windbreaks.
It can be propagated in a variety of ways. It can be

through seeds, where its tiny yellow flower produces
capsulated seeds that can be dispersed through
water or stem cuttings (Allen, 2002).
Malibago requires very little maintenance once

established, primarily trimming and pruning.
40
41
Non-Native
Common Names: Red Banaba

Botanical Name: Lagerstroemia langkawiensis
Family Name: Lythraceae
IUCN Conservation Status: Endangered
It is naturally growing in Langkawi Island, Malaysia.

This tree was introduced recently (between 2000-
2010) for ornamental purposes in the Philippines. It
became a hit species instantly as the leaves turns
dark red to maroon, especially when planted in full
exposed sunlight. It is one of the head turners’ trees
in recent landscaping projects in the country.
Unlike its relative native Banaba which has a very

flashy purple flower, its bloom is lighter purple in
color. It mimics the autumnal color of temperate
regions. It is recommended to be planted in
commercial districts as its color dictates movement,
active lifestyle, and productivity.
42
Non-Native
Common Names: Revolution Gold, or

Golden Tea Tree
Botanical Name: Melaleuca bracteata
‘Revolution Gold’
Revolution Gold is considered shrub to small tree

with maximum 6 meters tall, with irresistible gold
leaves specially when planted in full sun (Flora
Fauna Web, 2022). Golden Tea Tree is an Australian
cultivar, meaning, it is a type or variety of plant that
was produced in selected breeding due to its traits.
It is usually used as color contrasted privacy shrub

since it can maintain leaves from the root collar to
the tip with proper pruning, effective windbreaks
or as a focal point to residential and commercial
greenspaces. It reacts well to pruning to promote a
denser habit, since it can grow an open growth habit
if left untrimmed.
It can thrive in wet or flooded conditions like

Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela City
yet can also survive in sandy soil which makes it
a very low maintenance tree. Revolution Gold in
some extent is wind tolerant though sometimes it
develops die back by natural pruning.
It is also highly resistant to saline spray or salt spray

which is highly recommended in coastal cities and
municipalities. Its unique fluorescent yellow foliage
depicts its modernity which will surely make it one
of the favorite urban greening plants of the 21st
century.
43
Non-Native
Common Names: Tsampakang Puti

Botanical Name: Michelia alba
Family Name: Magnoliaceae
Native to China, this flowering tree has been

cultivated in the Philippines and has been known
for its many health uses and the extraction of
its white flowers for scents (Stuart 2016). The
Tsampakang puti have been cultivated in the
Philippines for purposes of ornamental use (Pelser,
2021).
This tree readily flowers even at small heights

around 3 - 4 meters. It can be observed planted
on walkways and is easily noticeable as it
exudes a flowery scent for the pedestrians. even
more noticeable at night. Upon maturity and
establishment, this tree can reach up to 30 meters
in height (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
Tsampakang Puti is also characterized by its

evergreen broad leaves that are smooth. The bark
is white to gray. This tree also thrives well on acidic
soils and loves the full sun.
44
Non-Native
Common Names: Mussaenda

Botanical Name: Mussaenda spp.
Family Name: Rubiaceae
The first scientific discoveries of Mussaenda varieties

in the Philippines were recorded as early as 1915 in Los
Banos (UPLB, 2018). The Mussaendas were known
then as the Kahoy-dalaga plant. Professors and
other scientists have then cultivated and developed
multiple varieties until today.
In honor of several personalities, a lot of varieties

have been given their names. Mussaenda ‘Queen
Sirikit’ was named after the visit of Queen Sirikit of
Thailand to the Philippines in 1963 (UP OVCRE, 2018).
This plant is a native of the Philippines and a hybrid
of two other Mussaenda plants, the Mussaenda
‘Dona Luz’ and Mussaenda philippica ‘Aurorae’ (Flora
Fauna Web, 2021).
This plant is characterized by its broad leaves that

are hairy and soft. The soft and pink sepals, unique to
the ‘Queen Sirikit’ hybrid, are specialized leaves that
grow around the real flowers to attract pollinators.
The real flowers are small and bright yellow (Top
Tropical, 2022).
A recent development in the Mussaenda genus is

the introduction of new sets of hybrids by Dr. Rosario,
also known as “Ma’am TL” of UPLB. In 2018, she
introduced varieties of Mussaenda; ‘Mutya’, ‘Diwata’,
‘Paraluman’ and ‘Bathaluman’. In honor of Ma’am TL,
a Mussaenda variety was also named after her, the
Mussaenda ‘TLR’ (UPLB, 2018). All the hybrids and
varieties have their own set of beauty, differences
come in colors of the bracts, sizes of sepals, color of
flowers, bract sizes, and leaves.
For maintenance, Mussaendas are usually hard

pruned to allow redevelopment of new sprouts that
in turn result in dense foliage and more flowers. They
love the full sun and bloom almost all year round.
Planting these are great in landscape backdrops
and are planted in rows or along other varieties of
Mussaenda.
And as varieties have been named in honor of the

great men of our generation, having these in the
landscapes remind us of our first ladies and great
Filipino women.
45
46
Native
Common Names: Benguet Pine

Botanical Name: Pinus kesiya
Family Name: Pinaceae
It is the most commonly used Pine tree in the

Philippines specially mainland Luzon although it
is commonly known as Benguet Pine. It occurs
naturally in different regions of the Philippines
including provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur and
Nueva Vizcaya or areas with elevation of 300-2700
meters above sea level. Since it grows up to 35
meters, it is considered as a large tree.
It is ideal in moist upland cities and municipalities.

Its scents remind us of happy memories and the cold
weather of Baguio City, Sagada and other touristy
destinations in Cordillera. When some real estate
uses it in greening as a selling point to create the
feeling and branding of living in temperate cold
places it definitely helps to shoot up property value.
Aside from significant tangible economic value

Benguet Pine brings to urban development and
tourist attractions, pine trees in general are very
essential in removing stress, calming our soul, and
reminding us of Christmas seasons.
47
Native
Common Names: Mamalis

Botanical Name: Pittosporum pentandrum
Family Name: Pittosporaceae
This tree, commonly referred to as Taiwanese

cheesewood, is native to China, Philippines, Taiwan,
and Indonesia (Forest, 2003).
It requires little maintenance and is commonly used

as shade trees along roadways and highways.
Mamalis can be easily propagated through seeds

and is drought-resistant. During its flowering season,
its tiny white flowers blooms that almost fully cover
the crown during this time of the year and attracts
a variety of pollinators, especially small birds which
helps in dispersion of its seeds.
It can thrive in areas with little moisture and full

sunlight exposed areas. Once established, it can be
maintained through pruning and trimming.
48
Non-Native
Common Names: Indian Tree

Botanical Name: Polyalthia longifolia
Family Name: Annonaceae
Indian tree is a small to medium tree with a single

trunk. It was introduced in the country from Sri
Lanka and India but became very adoptive to our
metropolis. Highly tolerant to roadside pollutants,
its fruit is food for urban birds and insects. Its roots
require relatively little amount of soil.
It is ideal for fence plantings, prefacing unsightly

views, and effective windbreaks that can be planted
along the roadside and residential spaces. It is also
recommended for small pocket gardens. It can
provide good shadow casting.
49
Native
Common Names: Bani

Botanical Name: Pongamia pinnata
A fast-growing evergreen tree native to the

Philippines, the Bani tree has its own set of beauty.
It is naturally found on shorelines, near coasts and
mangrove areas. The Bani tree is now getting known
as it is further being cultivated for urban use (Flora
Fauna Web, 2021).
The leaves of the Bani tree are dark green in color and
are leathery in texture.It develops majestic flowers
in clumps that are white and fragrant. The flowers
provide nectar that is used by bees to produce their
honey (CIFOR, 2022).
As it grows, the tree develops a very dense crown and

usually assumes a round shape, further providing
shade in walkways and on road sides. As native to the
Philippines, it can withstand high temperatures and
survive in drought (Gilman, 2019).
Planting this tree is great for shade, and allows a very

natural and native look to a landscape scene.
50
Non-Native
Common Names: Rain Tree

Botanical Name: Samanea saman
The majestic Rain tree has been in our parks,

walk ways, and road sides providing us shade
with its wide crowns. Native to the tropical
Americas (Flora Fauna Web, 2021), the Rain
tree is now naturalized in the Philippines
(Pelser, 2021).
This majestic tree achieves the widest crowns

and can grow more than 30 meters in height
and spread. Included in the family of legumes,
it also produces pods to house its seeds.
And prior to these production of pods are its
beautiful white and pink flowers.
In cultivation, it has been widely introduced

in Southeast Asia. It is great under direct sun
in tropical regions. Upon establishment, it can
thrive well with minimal care. Control of its
growth is the main necessity in maintaining
this tree. As it tends to establish its wide crowns,
some opt to regularly hard prune its foliage;
otherwise its leaves are a problem in drainage.
As it is partially deciduous, thousands of leaves
may cause clogged drainages, resulting in
floods in heavy rains.
Sidewalks, pavers, submerged pipes and other

structures may be damaged upon the growth
of its rooting system. Planting the rain tree
is advisable at distances away from these
structures. Several measures are applicable
such as application of root barriers and growth
control hormones for the trees. A journal
published by the Journal of Arboriculture in
1999 reported that California alone spent $62
Million annually for the repair of sidewalks due
to root damage (Pepper, 1999). To counter this,
there have been developments of root barriers
to prevent damage while not affecting tree
growth.
The rain tree, among other trees, provides

shade and greatly improves a landscape
scene. However, it is important to keep in
mind necessary measures to control and
minimize the other challenges it brings with
its greatness.
51
Non-Native
Common Names: Saraca

Botanical Name: Saraca indica
The Saraca native to several regions of Southeast Asia, is

a majestic flowering tree that grows up to 10 meters in
height.
This tropical tree grows relatively slowly and assumes

a wide and rounded crown. With its dense foliage, it
produces volumes of flowers in its blooming seasons. The
flowers are produced in clumps with orange and pinkish
colors. This tree produces flowers directly from branches
and trunks. During the months of February to May, the
trees may be covered in flowers! Another unique feature
of this tree’s flowers compared to other legumes is that
there are no petals produced as the colors of the flowers
come from its sepals (Flora Fauna Web, 2021).
This tree is perfect to be planted in rows. On sidewalks

and alleys, Saracas introduces a new look and motif,
providing both shade and fragrance for its visitors.
52
Non-Native
Common Names: Antsoan Dilao

Botanical Name: Senna spectabilis
Native to South America, the Antsoan Dilao, also

known as the Spectacular Cassia, is a small to
medium sized tree that can grow up to 9 meters in
height (Stuart Jr., 2020).
This tree really is spectacular, at low heights at

around 4 - 6 meters it can produce so many flowers.
In its full bloom the whole tree may look full of
flowers. The yellow flowers it develops are formed in
clumps, hidden within the green foliage.
The Antsoan Dilao has been used in planting

for roadsides and sidewalks. In urban areas, it is
recommended for controlling surface runoff and soil
erosion (Alfonso, 2012, p. 21).
Planting these small trees provides the brightest

yellows at eye level. It can beautify a scene while
simultaneously helping reduce the effects of soil
erosion, among others.
53
Non-Native
Common Names: Pink Trumpet Tree,

or Tabebuia
Botanical Name: Tabebuia heterophylla
Family Name: Bignoniaceae
An introduced tree native from the Caribbean Islands

(CABI, 2022), the Pink Trumpet tree is now gaining
popularity for urban landscape developments in the
Philippines.
This tree reaches up to 15 meters in height (Flora

Fauna Web, 2022) and is famous for its pinkish
flowers. Its leaves are simple and palmate and are
distinct with yellow midribs and pale green leaves.
The Pink Trumpet Tree as introduced species does

not pose a significant threat as invasive species as
per PIER (2011) as cited by CABI (2022). It is a good
option for medium to large-sized trees in parks to
provide pink flowers and lush canopies.
54
Non-Native
Common Names: Sampaloc

Botanical Name: Tamarindus indica
Family Name: Fabaceace
Sampaloc, or Tamarindus indica has been part of

our culture for so long that it sounds very Filipino.
Although it is non-native, it has been growing in our
soil for thousands of years. In fact, countless rounds,
barangays, municipalities, and even lakes were named
after this tree species. Many wild Sampaloc trees are
found all over the African continent, where it is believed
to have originated. It has been cultivated in tropical
and subtropical countries all over the world. Its seeds
are easily dispersed by parrots, hornbills, and other
birds that snack on its sweet and tangy fruits. In the
Philippines, it has been naturalized and is growing even
in areas without human settlement.
Although there are other souring agents, our native

soup dish sinigang would not be as deliciously satisfying
if not for the tamarind fruits. The fruity, sweet, and sour
taste of its pulp gives it its distinct flavor.
This tree reaches up to 25 meters high. It is long-lived

and used as shade trees in parks and on roads. Its dense
foliage makes it a perfect backdrop plant for landscape
gardening. It can also sustain regular pruning, making
it a favorite material for bonsai artists.
55
Native
Common Names: Banalo, or Portia Tree

Botanical Name: Thespesia populnea
The Banalo is a coastal, small tree. Its crooked trunk

growth pattern adds aesthetics to greenspaces. It is
easily propagated via seed or stem cutting. Its flower
opens in the morning, and changes color from yellow
to dark orange at the end of the day.
Banalo is highly tolerant to salt spray, sandy areas,

drought areas and waterlogged areas; and windy
urban areas, but is not ideal for roadside planting, as
it is fairly tolerant to roadside pollutants. This is ideal
to plant in coastal towns and cities.
Its heart shaped dense leaves are efficient when it

comes to giving shade. Along with this, bees and
other nectar feeding insects also love this tree. One
should just be mindful of the root rot, if it’s planted
near the property. One must make sure to install a
root barrier as its roots are very aggressive.
56
Non-Native
Common Names: First Love, or Golden Penda

Botanical Name: Xanthostemon chrysanthus
This plant is considered as a native of Northeast

Queensland in Australia, but it can be found in
nurseries and gardens in Iloilo City.
It is a rheophyte plant which means it can grow in

fast moving water like river berms, creek beds, and
ponds. It is recommended to be used in flood prone
areas like Marikina River, Cagayan de Oro river, and
Pasig River.
A hardly small tree which is drought resistant as

well, resistant to roadside pollutants and ideal in full
exposed areas. Its bright yellow color that blooms
almost whole year round adds color to greenspaces.
57
Native
Common Names: Mankono, or Mangkono

Botanical Name: Xanthostemon
verdugonianus
This evergreen tree, which is native to the Philippines

and is widely distributed in the Dinagat and eastern
portion of Leyte, is known as Philippine Iron Wood
and is recognized as one of the country’s heaviest
and hardest wood, as its names indicate.
This tree is typically observed growing in forests over

ultramafic rocks or heavy metal-rich soil (Malabrigo,
2020).
It is valued for its toughness and durability. Its straight,

dense bole is harvested and used in construction.
Mining and overexploitation are the major causes of
habitat loss which puts this tree in threat.
This tree can be reproduced through seeds, but

takes a very long period of time to grow.
58
Non-Native
Common Names: Yucca

Botanical Name: Yucca aloifolia
Family Name: Asparagaceae
Also known as Aloe Yucca, Yuccas are distinct with

their spiny-looking leaves that are harmless anyway.
This plant is native to the Atlantic and the coasts of
Virginia to Texas, USA. It naturally grows on sandy
soils and can survive drought
In the Philippines, this has been widely cultivated

for both indoor and outdoor use. This can be seen in
shopping malls planted in pots and gardens enjoying
the direct sun. It adapts very well but it needs proper
care as it can’t take so much water.
Yuccas grow slowly, but can grow up to 5 meters in
height (NC State, n.d.)
Planted indoors, Yucca plants tend to increase leaf

lengths and develop darker shades of green, on the
other hand, planted outdoors, Yuccas achieve their
natural look, with sturdier leaves looking prickly.
Although there are a lot of variations of Yucca, this

type of Yucca is one of the most cultivated in the
Philippines.
59
BAMBOOS
Bamboo is the tallest variety of grass. It can be used to
create privacy fences and to control erosion. It can also
aesthetically create sounds, movements, and texture in
greenspaces.
60
Non-Native
Common Names: Thai Bamboo

Botanical Name: Bambusa dolichomerithalla
Family Name: Poaceae
Thai bamboo grows partially shaded to full sunlight.

It grows best in moist to wet soil, but it can also
survive in dry soil for a certain period. It is a favorite
bamboo to be used in residential and commercial
establishments as it is medium-sized. Its consistent
dense foliage from the base to the tip makes it ideal
for delineating boundaries and promoting privacy.
In general, it can provide calming effects. It can also
tolerate pruning to achieve desirable heights.
Just be mindful of shedding leaves during the dry

season as it is a heavy shedder. It is recommended
not to plant this near a water feature like a swimming
pool as the leaves of bamboo are high in silica that
may clog to the pump and filter of the pool.
61
Non-Native
Common Names: Silverstripe Bamboo

Botanical Name: Bambusa multiplex
‘Silverstripe’
This variety of bamboo can be the substitute for overly

used Thai bamboo, as they have the same growth
habit, size, and shape of leaves. The only difference is
that its leaves have silvery stripes including its pole. It
can be used as a privacy fence and a boundary plant.
It is highly tolerant to flooding, and urban pollution.

It can grow in a wide range of soil types even in
compacted urban types of soil. This bamboo is
best planted in full sunlight where its variegation
becomes heavy. It can also thrive in partially shaded
areas, however, its variegation will become less
prominent. Its main attractive characteristic is its
white stripe variegation that looks like silver stripe;
thus, it was called Silverstripe.
62
Non-Native
Common Names: Variegated Chinese Bamboo

Botanical Name: Bambusa multiplex
‘Variegata’
Variegated Chinese Bamboo is a densely clump-

forming bamboo. Its leaves have a white stripe
that looks silvery from afar. This is a small variety of
bamboo that can be grown in pots or directly into
the soil.
This bamboo is very responsive to pruning which

makes it ideal to maintain like a bush. This is
commonly used for mass planting. It is practical
to use this bamboo in large areas like parks, river
berms, and sidewalks as ornamental hedges. It can
also survive in urban sloping areas making it ideal to
use as soil erosion control.
Shedding is also an issue during the dry season but

applying nitrogen fertilizer with a proper amount
of water will reduce shedding. Out planting it in
full sunlight will maximize its potential to become
highly dense. However, planting it in shaded areas
significantly reduces its leaves. Variegated bamboo
has smaller leaves than Silverstripe. Its variegated
bamboo has heavier variegation than Silverstripe.
63
Non-Native
Common Names: Hiroshima Bamboo

Botanical Name: Hibanobambusa
tranquillans ‘Shiroshima’
It is one of the most interesting varieties of bamboo.

As its name suggests, it came from Hiroshima. During
World War II, after Hiroshima was hit by the hydrogen
bomb of Japan, bamboo was the first to sprout.
Making it the symbol of resilience and recovery. Its
almost white leaves and pole color were theorized as
the mutation brought about by radiation.
In the Philippines, it became one of the most sought

varieties of bamboo during COVID-19 pandemic days
due to its unique variegation. It is very limited as it can
only be seen in collectors’ shop nurseries in the country.
Its white foliage never restricts it from growing fast.

It is also tolerant of urban pollution, making it one of
the most resilient varieties of bamboo. However, it
is shedding heavily during summer when its white
foliage is damaged, especially when watering is limited.
It is best to use this bamboo as an accent plant or focal

point in greening. Its white color provides a calming
effect, especially in commercial areas when everybody
is busy and in a rush. It can grow potted or direct in
the soil.
64
Non-Native
Common Names: Green Stripe Vivax

Botanical Name: Phyllostachys vivax
‘Aureocaulis’
Green Stripe Vivax is a relatively tall bamboo that is

being used in urban greenspaces. Its main attractive
characteristic is its bright yellow buttery pole
coloration with green stripes.
This is not commonly used as a privacy fence, but

it can ideally provide shade along the footpath. It is
also being used for mass planting in large parks as it
can easily cover a large area. Aside from its aesthetic
appeal, it is commonly used as soil erosion control
along river berms and bodies of water.
This is planted directly in the soil, and not ideally

used as a potted plant due to its size. It grows best
in direct sunlight. When planted in a shaded area it
can easily get infested with sooty molds and aphids.
65
Non-Native
Common Names: Pole Bamboo, or

Monastery Bamboo
Botanical Name: Thyrsostachys siamensis
Naturally distributed around East Asia, the monastery

bamboo is one of the most cultivated bamboos for
ornamental use. It is naturally found around 500 to
1,000 meters above sea level (Gamble, 2022).
This fast growing bamboo is found in clumps. It can

reach heights up to 13 meters in length. Upon its
maximum length, the bamboos tend to drupe down,
also coined as “weeping” (Fern, 2014).
Planting this bamboo is easy, as it grows quite

quickly when established. It can also be propagated
through rhizome cuttings, and in the separation and
replanting of parts of the clumps.
In current landscape developments, this bamboo

is usually found planted in rows, or in backgrounds
to induce a more lush foliage. Some opt to have it
shaped or grow wildly.
66
PALMS AND CYCADS
Palms and cycads commonly have unbranched tree-
like features with feather-like or fan-shaped leaves. Aside
from serving as a focal point, they can also show direction,
maximize vertical spaces, and represent grandness in
greening.
67
Native
Common Names: Manila Palm

Botanical Name: Adonidia merrillii
Family Name: Acanthaceae
A native of the Philippines, Manila palms naturally

occur near shorelines and the primary rainforests.
It grows around 10 to 100 meters above sea level.
Relative to other palms, it grows slightly shorter and
only reaches up to 15 meters in height.
Naturally, the Manila palm thrives in full sun.

However, in urban landscapes, it can be planted and
grown indoors. Aside from these, it can also tolerate
saline, infertile and acidic soils (Flora Fauna Web,
2021).
Although it grows small, it can withstand certain

stressors that other palms and plants cannot. It
grows erect and vigorous and is one of the best
options to include for small landscapes.
As a testament to its popularity, the Manila palm is

now listed in CABI as an invasive species in Cuba,
the Bahamas, and Anguilla (Sandoval, 2019). This
is due to consistent and extensive introduction to
many parts of the world, it is now found to compete
with other native species of these new regions. On
the other hand, the Manila Palms is also marked as
vulnerable in the Philippines, as the species is found
to decline due to rapid urbanization (IUCN, 2020).
68
Non-Native
Common Names: Bismarckia Palm

Botanical Name: Bismarckia nobilis
Family Name: Arecaceae
The Bismarck Palm or also called the Bismarckia

Palm is native to Madagascar. This palm can grow up
to 30 meters in height and is distinct with its very
large leaves.
The fronds can grow up to 3 meters across. The

fan-shaped fronds are sturdy, creating its majestic
crown. Common to palms, the Bismarckia can also
tolerate drought (Flora Fauna Web, 2021).
The Bismarckia palm is exotic and harder to find

in the Philippines relative to other palms, creating
a sense of exclusivity when planted on islands and
roadsides. Imagine walking under a series of these
towering palms with fronds dancing along the wind.
69
Native
Common Names: Fishtail Palm

Botanical Name: Caryota rumphiana
A versatile palm that can grow in a potted indoor

plant or shaded area when young but as it matures,
it loves full sunlight exposure.
It is drought resistant commonly planted as a corner

plant in residential areas but be mindful as it can be
very aggressive in producing sprouts.
It is recommended to have at least 2-meter distance

when planting near the building as it’s root might
damage the structure.
70
Non-Native
Common Names: Oliva

Botanical Name: Cycas revoluta
Family Name: Cycadaceae
The Oliva comes from the family of Cycads, an

ancient plant from the group of Gymnosperms.
This has been recorded to exist since 200 million
years ago (N.C. State, n.d.).
The Oliva plant grows very slowly, and in the

Philippines, it commonly reaches around 5 meters
in height (Stuart, 2018).
This plant can be placed indoors in pots and

can survive low levels of light. Due to its low
productivity rates, it takes decades for the Olive
to produce cones, a factor as to why it is now
considered vulnerable (IUCN, 2022).
Including this in landscapes introduces a

more established look in a landscape, and as it
beautifies a scene, we can ensure one additional
plant to counter its vulnerability.
71
Non-Native
Common Names: Red Palm

Botanical Name: Cyrtostachys renda
Native to Thailand and other neighboring regions

of Asia, the Red Palm exhibits a distinctive red color
on its stalks and trunk. This palm thrives in tropical
regions, and naturally exists in rainforests, swamps,
and near shorelines.
The Red Palm can grow only up to a certain height,

around 12 meters at most. It also grows in clumps.
And due to its habit to grow near water bodies, it can
tolerate intense water saturation (Flora Fauna Web,
2022). The Red Palm can be planted in pots, although
it may destroy them up to a certain point once it has
developed clumps.
In cultivation, it can be propagated by separation of

individual palms from a clump. It is great for adding
colors to the backdrops of landscapes, as it adds a
sense of tropical vibes to a scenery.
72
Non-Native
Common Names: African Oil Palm

Botanical Name: Elaeis guineensis
African Oil Palms are native to Africa. Known for

its palm oil production for cooking, cosmetics, and
transportation. African oil palm produces many fruit
bunches of about 12 - 14 per year. African oil palm is
one of the most cultivated plants for oil production as
it has the highest percentage of oil content per fruit
bunch. Fruits are also edible and sweet! From ages 4
to 30, this palm produces its fruits and naturally lives
up to 120 years old (Hamabali & Rivai, 2017).
Although known for its economic uses, this palm

is now also used for Urban Landscapes. In the
Philippines, it is commonly seen in center islands,
as these locations are harder for irrigation to reach,
this palm is perfect as it is tolerant to drought. For
maintenance, some opt to clean and remove the
residues from the frond bases left on the trunk.
Planting this palm in rows shows a sense of resiliency

and vigor with their towering heights and vigorous
frond appearance.
73
Non-Native
Common Names: Champagne Palm

Botanical Name: Hyophorbe lagenicaulis
IUCN Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
Native to the Mascarene islands, the Champagne

Palm is known for its bottle-like structure, with a
bigger trunk base tapering to its stalk.
Another characteristic noticeable to the Champagne

Palm is its hardy fronds. As it develops its majestic
crowns, each frond is important to its overall look.
The trunk is gray where the leaf scars can also be

observed. This palm can be planted together with
ground covers to amplify its beauty, and since it is
autotrophic, no other shoots can grow in its base.
The Champagne Palm can grow up to 4.5 meters in

height and grows slowly (Flora Fauna Web, 2021).
The roots are also not obstructive and will not be able
to damage pavers relative to other trees and palms.
With these growth patterns, the Champagne Palm

is perfect to be planted in small walkways and alleys.
Planting it can also help in countering its decreasing
population, as it is also marked as critically
endangered (IUCN, 1998).
74
Non-Native
Common Names: Licuala

Botanical Name: Licuala grandis
A native of the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu (Flora

Fauna Web, 2022), Licuala palms are now widely used
in urban landscapes. Although this plant may appear
to have a similar structure to the famous Anahaw,
Licualas have its own distinct characteristics.
One of Licuala’s unique features is its fan-shaped

leaves that are smooth and sturdy. This plant is either
planted indoors or directly outside once established.
It can thrive in partial shade and full sun.
The Licuala helps to achieve thick layers of foliage,

adds a lusher effect as it grows in groups, and
emphasizes any centerpiece in landscape designs.
75
Non-Native
Common Names: Date Palm

Botanical Name: Phoenix dactylifera
The Phoenix Palm or Date Palm, known for its

production of dates, is one of the oldest fruit sources
in the African and Asian Nations (Al-Alawi et al., 2017).
Known for its productivity, this palm can produce
fruit bunches of dates from ages 20 years onwards,
some are also observed to yield at ages 150 years old.
Native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa, this
palm is now also being used for urban greening.
As natives of the arid regions, it can withstand long

periods of drought and can be planted in areas with
difficult water access. It is commonly seen in center
islands on large highways.
Although commonly mistaken with the African oil

palm, its fruit yields are distinct in color. The African
oil palm produces dark red colors while the Dates are
orange to yellow.
Planting this is great in non-accessible areas.

However, for maintenance, removal of the fronds
shall always be done with caution due to the thorns
near the stalks.
76
Non-Native
Common Names: McArthur’s Palm

Botanical Name: Ptychosperma macarthurii
The McArthur’s Palm, native to Australia and New

Guinea, has found its way to be widely distributed
worldwide. A small palm, growing up to 9 meters tall,
grows in clumps and produces its red fruits that are
attractive to multiple birds and pollinators.
This small palm develops small trunk diameters that

have observable rings. This makes its trunks appear
bamboo-like. Foliage appears lush as it continues to
develop new sprouts within their clumps. It can grow
under shade and can tolerate drought (Gilman &
Watson, 2015), and is great for adding foliage for added
layers in small landscapes. The McArthur’s palm is now
commonly cultivated beyond its native regions.
As cultivated and naturally carried by various species

of pollinators, it has been introduced naturally to
other forest types and regions. CABI has declared the
McArthur’s Palm as invasive in many regions such as
Barbados and Hawaii (CABI, 2022). It competes with
other plants in terms of pollination.
In the Philippines, this palm can be seen everywhere.

It is continuously multiplying through cultivation
and through our pollinators.
77
Non-Native
Common Names: Raphis, Lady Palm

Botanical Name: Raphis excelsa
The Lady Palm, native to China, is known for its

resiliency in indoor planting and shaded areas. It
can withstand low light and low humidities. It can
be placed in pots to provide greeneries in lobbies,
parking entrances, and under tree shades.
This palm can grow up to 5 meters in height in

a group (Flora Fauna Web, 2021). The leaves are
palmate, resembling a hand with its fingers, and
each leaflet grows up to 60 centimeters individually.
The leaves are very sturdy and evergreen. This palm
can even survive a bit of drought (N.C. State, n.d.).
Planting this is perfect for hardy areas, when there

are no plants that seem to survive, the Raphis can
almost always thrive.
78
Non-Native
Common Names: Royal Palm

Botanical Name: Roystonea regia
A native of South Florida, Mexico, Central America,

and the Caribbean, Royal Palms also thrive in tropical
regions. This palm is used in urban greening as
towering landscape accents on roadsides. This is
relatively taller than other palms and can be difficult to
manage as it can grow up to 15 to 20 meters in height.
This palm attracts birds and insects although prone

to infestations of the Rhinoceros beetle (Flora Fauna
Web, 2022). Each frond can grow up to 3 meters in
length and can be differentiated from other palms
as it looks softer in appearance.
This palm self-prunes itself, allowing the fronds to

detach once a newer set of fronds are available at
the apex. Planting the Royal Palms are great near
towers and taller structures.
79
Native
Common Names: Anahaw

Botanical Name: Saribus merrillii
Native to the Philippines and other regions of Asia,

the Anahaw provides the National leaf of our country
(Castillo, 2014), as we were taught as young students.
It is known for its many economic purposes used by
our ancestors.
The natural habitat of this palm is around rocky

limestones from 60 to 200 meters above sea level
(Bacon & Baker, 2011).
The Anahaw can grow up to a towering 27 meters tall

(Flora Fauna Web, 2022). The fronds are distinct fan-
shaped, soft and smooth. Upon maturity, the crown
is observable with developments of fronds forming
around the stalk.
Once established in strips, the towering Anahaw

creates a sense of tropical vibes in a landscape; it can
further amplify entrances to a facade.
80
Non-Native
Common Names: Foxtail Palm

Botanical Name: Wodyetia bifurcataa
IUCN Conservation Status: Lower Risk /
Conservation Dependent
The Foxtail palm is one of the quick go-to options

for palms for landscapes. With leaves that mimic fox
tails, landscapes appear to have lush canopies.
A native of Australia, the Foxtail palm grows up to 15

meters in height, and is very fast growing! The trunks
of this palm are smooth and light-colored. You can
see this palm on roadsides and love to grow in sunny
areas (Flora Fauna Web, 2021).
The fronds, lush and dense, grow in an arching

pattern. One distinct pattern to identify the foxtail
palms is where its leaflets grow, all the leaflets
protrude around one rachis or the center part of the
leaf. With multiple green fronds, it easily adds thick
foliage for walkways and islands.
81
SHRUBS AND
HEDGE PLANTS
Shrubs and hedges are multi-stem woody perennial
plants. Aside from serving as privacy fences, they can
also be used as materials for mass planting, foundation
planting, landscape statements, and specimen planting.
82
Non-Native
Common Names: Calliandra

Botanical Name: Calliandra haematocephala
A relative to the Acacia tree, the Calliandra or known

as the ‘Red Powder Puff’ is a shrub that can grow into
a tree. This plant is native to Bolivia and is cultivated
for ornamental use (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
The leaf appearance resembles that of the Rain Tree,

with slightly swollen leaf bases in pairs. And within
its green foliage, a particular characteristic of the
powderpuff can be observed. The beautiful color of
the flowers stand out and look like a ball of fluffiness.
The flowers achieve this look with its extended
stamens, and in full bloom, the flowers achieve a
round shape.
In cultivation, the Powder Puff has been naturalized

in the Philippines. It can be found near rivers and
water bodies (Pelser, 2020). As it has been surviving in
tropical regions, it can withstand high temperatures
wherein it develops the flowers.
A variety of the Red Powder Puff is the White Powder

Puff. This plant exhibits similar growth patterns and
foliage, but develops white flowers instead. The
stamens of the white Powder Puff are less compared
to the red Powder Puff, resulting in curly structures
of the stamens upon decay.
Planting this will need a good water source and a

well-drained soil. In small gardens, it can grow into
a small tree, producing vibrancy and exceptional
beauty.
83
84
Native
Common Names: Fukien Tea, or Tsaang Gubat

Botanical Name: Carmona retusa
Family Name: Boraginaceae
Native to China, Malesia, and the Philippines, the

Tsaang Gubat, or the Fukien tea is a shrub that
grows up to 4 meters in height. This plant is used in
hedges and grown into bonsais. This plant originally
got its name for obvious reasons, for making tea! This
plant is known to help ease diarrhea and stomach
aches (Bunag, 2020).
In the landscape scheme, this plant is one of the best

options for hedges. It develops woody structures
that are very resilient. Although it grows slowly, it
also grows strong. Replanting with this plant is not
a problem, although it may seem so as it will drop
almost all its leaves upon being disturbed, it can
always recover during establishment.
The leaves on this plant are dark green, sturdy, and

small, but be careful in handling it, as it has small
toothed structures on the leaf blades. Flowers are
also small and white that only measure up to 10mm
in width (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
85
Native
Common Names: Ti Plant, or Baston de San Jose

Botanical Name: Cordilyne terminalis
Locally known as Ti Plant or “Baston de San Jose”, it

is always included in tropical-themed landscapes.
The Ti Plant is known for its many variations of
color and size. Some dwarf cultivars and cultivars
can reach several meters in height. Colors also
range from green to red to light pink (NC State
University, n.d.).
The Ti Plant is native to Eastern Asia (Flora Fauna

Web, 2021). It prefers the full sun, loves well-
drained soils, and can be propagated through
cuttings of the apical shoots; another reason for its
widespread cultivation.
Planting this plant introduces an almost pure red

color and further improves the tropical looks in the
landscape.
86
Non-Native
Common Names: Periwinkle

Botanical Name: Catharanthus roseus
Native to Madagascar, the Periwinkle plant has been

found around neighborhoods and parks providing
regular flowers for esthetics.
This flowering plant can grow up to 1 meter in height.

And it develops simple leaves, simple flowers, and
provides beauty in simple ways. It thrives in full sun,
and does not require intensive irrigation to survive,
especially upon establishment (Flora Fauna Web,
2022). It is a small flowering plant, and its simple
characteristics differentiate it from any other plant.
As it thrives easily in difficult conditions, it is now

considered invasive on many continents such as
Asia, Africa, America, and Oceania (CABI, 2022).
87
Native
Common Names: Musical Note Plant

Botanical Name: Clerodendrum incisums
Family Name: Lamiaceae
Native to the Philippines, the musical note plant

produces flowers that resemble, well, music notes!
This small shrub can only grow up to 1 meter in

height (Flora Fauna Web, 2021). As it grows, it
develops flowers in tubes with purple elongated
stamens. Unopened flowers are the ones that
resemble the notes. And these unopened flowers
with tubes around 3 - 4 inches in length, bloom at
night (Daulton, 2014).
This plant prefers full sun. Planting these are great

as additional shrubs in small landscapes. This plant
is easy to maintain and can be easily propagated
through cuttings.
88
Non-Native
Common Names: Crossandra, or

Firecracker Flower
Botanical Name: Crossandra infundibuliformis
Native to South Asian regions, the Crossandra is a

small shrub cultivated for its exceptional beauty. As
it can only grow up to 1 meter in height, it achieves
maturity quickly and produces many flowers
throughout its lifetime (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
As flowers are produced in clumps or in bulk, a small

shrub may seem packed with small bouquets. The
flowers are erect, all pointed upwards, and located
at the apex of sets of bracts. The extension of these
smaller bracts further allows the flowers to reach
out and be seen by pollinators. Unlike any other
flowering shrub, this characteristic allows the plant
to show its beauty.
As it is a small shrub, it produces woody structures

underneath the colorful foliage. This is a sign of
resilience, and it further blooms under full sun. The
bright colors of the flowers also match the dark
green colors of the leaves.
Planting this is great on colorful landscapes. It

extensively stands out near green herbs and ferns.
89
Non-Native
Common Names: San Francisco

Botanical Name: Croton sp.
Family Name: Euphorbiaceae
Native to India, Malaysia and some parts of South

Pacific Island, this shrub has long been a favorite in
gardens and parks.
It has been one of the best choices in landscape due

to its ever changing colors that ranges from reddish
orange to yellowish green. Every leaf in a single plant
has a different color variation. Also different varieties
produced different shapes of leaves (Stamps, 2019).
It also thrives in different kinds of environments

but best placed in areas with full sun exposure for
enhancing the color variation of its leaves.
Even though its flower is less colorful compared to its

leaves, it can still be utilized for floral arrangements
and design.
It requires minimal maintenance and can be

propagated through cuttings and marcotting.
90
91
Non-Native
Common Names: Cuphea

Botanical Name: Cuphea hyssopifolia
Family Name: Lythraceae
Cuphea also known as False Heather is a small

growing shrub that produces hundreds of flowers.
This plant can only grow up to 0.6 meters in height
upon maturity and is unique due to the development
of purple flowers on the axils of the leaves (Flora
Fauna Web, 2022).
This plant is native to Mexico and the Guatemalas,

but as it is cultivated, it has been naturalized to many
tropical areas such as the Philippines.
The Cuphea thrives well under full sun and can also
survive in partial shade. Due to the many productions
of flowers, there are a lot of attracted pollinators on
this plant. It is great as ground covers and low-height
shrubs for small plant boxes.
92
Non-Native
Common Names: Song of Jamaica

Botanical Name: Dracaena reflexa
‘Song of Jamaica’
For tropical looks and lush foliage, this plant is one of

the go-tos of landscapers and planners. The Song of
Jamaica plant is one of the easiest to maintain. This
plant is native to Mozambique, Mauritius, and other
islands near Madagascar (Flora Fauna Web, 2021).
Song of Jamaica is both capable of cultivation

indoors and outdoors. The leaves are smooth and
have a lanceolate and elliptic form. The Color of
the leaves shows great contrasts with dark green
margins and yellow-green midribs.
This plant can grow up to 2 - 6 meters tall, depending

on where you place them. It is also available for
propagation through cuttings, just cut a stem, plant
it and see it grow!
93
Non-Native
Common Names: Picarra

Botanical Name: Excoecaria conchinchinensis
‘Firestorm’
Although also locally known as the ”Chinese

Croton, this is the most commonly cultivated in the
Philippines.
Also, a native of Asia, this plant is distinct through

mixtures of white colors in the upper leaves and
retaining the red color of the underleaves. This can be
propagated through cuttings, however, marcotting
assures a more certain reproduction method in
nurseries.
As this can grow up to 1 to 2 meters in height (Flora

Fauna Web, 2022), this is also observed planted in
hedges, as natural barriers for sidewalks in planters
and on islands for added accents.
94
Non-Native
Common Names: Chinese Croton, or Picarra

Botanical Name: Excoecaria conchinchinensis
Excoecaria conhinchinensis also known as the

Chinese croton is the least common type of Picarra
cultivated in the Philippines. This plant is naturally
distributed from the regions of Southern Indochina
and Malaysia (Flora Fauna Web, 2021).
This shrub does not grow tall, and can only reach up
to 1 meter in height. This plant is usually observed
planted in rows and is great to achieve a ragged layer
in landscape layouts. One particular characteristic of
this plant is its pure red underleaf and a shiny green
color on the upper leaf.
This plant prefers tropical climates and thrive easily in

the Philippines.
95
Non-Native
Common Names: Shower of Gold

Botanical Name: Galphimia glauca
Family Name: Malpighiaceae
A native of Mexico to Guatemala, Galphimias is one

of the best small shrubs that only reaches around 1
meter in height (Flora Fauna Web, 2022). This plant
thrives under the full sun, especially in tropical to
subtropical areas.
One of the main features of this plant is its bright

yellow flowers in groups combined with its
evergreen leaves and dark reddish-colored stalks,
which achieve high contrasts and stand out from
other smaller shrubs.
One interesting note is that Galphimias are invasive

to Cuba (Rojas-Sandoval, 2017), as it can very well
survive without intensive care. In the Philippines,
including this plant on landscapes assures regular
provision of flowers without having a hard time
taking care of them.
96
Non-Native
Common Names: Hibiscus spp., or Gumamela

Botanical Name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
The most commonly known Gumamela is believed to be

a native of East Africa, and have been naturalized in the
Philippines along with many other regions in the world
for its ornamental uses (Pelser, 2020).
One of its main features is its production of large flowers

that varies in colors within its genus and from its hybrids.
Their flowers are also dubbed to be a perfect flower or a
complete flower, wherein both male and female parts are
located in the same flower (Painter, n.d.).
Aside from its glossy leaves and vibrant flowers, they are
also used for medicinal purposes. Traditionally, they have
been extracted to cure bronchial asthma and even shown
anti-inflammatory properties in arthritis (Gulati, 2021).
The Gumamelas are locally cultivated in the Philippines

along with many other hybrids. Some produce white,
yellow, red and pink colors. These can be perfect for
planting in rows near fences to cover up a property with
the vibrancy of a flowery foliage.
97
98
Non-Native
Common Names: Adelfa

Botanical Name: Nerium oleander
This flowering shrub, also commonly known as

Adelfa, can be propagated easily. Native to Southern
Asia and the Mediterranean, these plants can have a
high tolerance to drought and wind. It can also thrive
in areas with high salinity in the air, making it perfect
for beach clubs and resorts (Russ, 2019).
This plant is quite flexible. Since Aldelfas have

multiple stems, it can be utilized as a hedge.
When grown as a small tree, its lush, green foliage
provides shade, making it perfect for homeyards and
commercial areas.
This tree brings bright colors to the landscape

through its fragrant flowers. Different varieties bloom
in different colors, and one of the most common is
pink.
99
Non-Native
Common Names: Ravenia

Botanical Name: Ravenia spectabilis
Family Name: Rutaceae
The majestic Ravenia is a shrub growing up to 5

meters in height. This plant is usually included in
small hedges under a main plant.
The ravenia produces small pink flowers. The

leaves are small and simple, and are distinct with
their rounded edges. In cultivation, the variegated
ravenias are usually available in the market. The
variegated Ravenias develop bright yellow leaves,
further allowing the pink flowers to pop out in a
scene.
Planting this is great in full sun or in semi-shaded

areas. For maintenance, it thrives well in most well-
drained soils (Flora Fauna Web, 2021). It can be
shaped in angular hedges or rounded in pots.
100
Non-Native
Common Names: Sampaguitang Gubat

Botanical Name: Jasminum auriculatum
Family Name: Oleaceae
This plant originated in the Himalayas, Nepal and

India which usually grow in dry places. In Iloilo City,
it can be seen growing on roadsides. It is a climbing
vine, but in landscaping it is maintained as bush like
or shrub like.
It can be used as a substitute to the overly used

bougainvillea. It can grow best in full sunlight with
fragrant flowers that bloom whole year round and
will peak during dry season.
This plant is recommended to be used in flower

gardens or fragrant themed landscaping.
101
Non-Native
Common Names: Sampaguita

Botanical Name: Jasminum sambac
Native to India and Southeast Asia, this shrub is

widely cultivated for its showy and fragrant flowers.
Although not native, it is the Philippines’ national
flower.
This evergreen shrub is great for hedges for both

residential and commercial establishments while
its tiny white flowers fill the surroundings with
aromatic scent. It is easy to maintain and can thrive
in shaded areas but best grown in full sun exposure
to produce flowers.
It is grown commercially for its fragrant flowers,

which are important to the perfume industry. These
flowers produce essential oils, which are utilized to
manufacture perfume and other beauty products
(Mourya, 2017).
It can be maintained through trimming and pruning

and can be propagated through leaf or stem cutting.
102
Non-Native
Common Names: Jatropha, or Peregrina

Botanical Name: Jatropha integerrima
Native to Cuba, Jatropha has been naturalized to

many tropical regions (CABI, 2020). It thrives well on
tropical and subtropical species. This plant can grow
up to 3 meters in height and can thrive in full sun and
partial shade.
The flowers are bright red and are developed in

clumps. As it has these very vibrant colors, the
flowers are frequently visited by butterflies.
One of the more distinct features of this plant is

its leaf shape. The leaves have three lobes in full
development.
For propagation, it can be reproduced through

cuttings and of course, through its seeds (Flora
Fauna Web, 2022). The Jatropha plants can be
observed on landscape entrances that also introduce
great tropical vibes.
103
Native
Common Names: Kamuning

Botanical Name: Murraya paniculata
Family Name: Rutaceace
It is native to Asia, ranging from India and Sri Lanka

all the way up to the northeastern part of Australia
(Gautam, 2012).
In the Philippines, these are commonly seen in parks

and other landscapes. Its lush, glossy foliage is a great
choice for creating hedges. It can also be placed
in pots and indoors, like at home or in commercial
spaces like malls and offices.
Also known as Orange Jasmin, this woody shrub can

enhance the scenery with its beautiful little white
flowers while giving off a fragrant orange scent
that attracts bees and butterflies. While its teardrop
shaped fruits attract birds, they change color from
green when young to a bright red upon maturity
(Environmental Horticulture Department, University
of Florida, 1999).
These shrubs are easy to maintain through trimming

and can thrive in areas with low levels of humidity.
104
Non-Native
Common Names: Golden Shrimp Plant

Botanical Name: Pachystachys lutea
The Golden Shrimp Plant is a unique and fast-

growing plant of color. Originally from Peru, it is
famous due to its production of colorful flowers; the
white colors are from the true flowers and yellow
colors from its bracts. This plant grows as a shrub up
to 1.2 meters in height (Gilman, 2015).
This plant prefers tropical climates and can thrive

very well in the Philippine climate. This plant is great
under the full sun (Flora Fauna Web, 2021), but can
also thrive under canopies.
With its evergreen leaves and fast-growing habit,

this plant is greatly added in groups for landscapes.
105
Non-Native
Common Names: Variegated Camachile

Botanical Name: Pithecellobium dulce
(Variegated)
This is a cultivated variety of camachile with showy

green, white, and pink pigments which makes it
very attractive in greening. Its hard bushy growth
habit is best for green low fence that even dogs
cannot penetrate it. Planting in a fully exposed area
helps bring back nitrogen to the soil especially in
urban areas wherein quality is one of the major
issues in greening.
Watering is not an issue with this plant as it can

adapt to very dry months in the Philippines. Best
to use in roadside planting residential, commercial,
or even in industrial developments as it is highly
tolerant to urban pollutants.
106
Non-Native
Common Names: Forget Me Not

Botanical Name: Plumbago auriculat
Family Name: Plumbaginaceae
A native of the Cape Province of South Africa, the

Plumbago is known for its shades of blue from its
flowers. This plant grows low and slow only up to 1
meter in height (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
In maturity, it is observed to drupe down although

still producing the same flowers. It thrives well in full
sun and flowers are sensitive to rainfall.
For landscape uses, the Plumbago require regular

trimming to maintain shape as its stalks and
branches are relatively soft. Overgrowing may result
in this plant to creep. This plant is great for adding
blue shades to a landscape.
107
Native
Common Names: Papua or Iloilo

Botanical Name: Polycias balfourniana
Marginata’
Papua is a versatile plant in Philippine gardens. It

is also regarded as an old-fashioned plant since it
became popular in the 1980s and 1970s. However,
due to its versatility to cope in an urban environment,
attractive leaf variegation, and ease of propagation
by stem cutting, it is gaining popularity once more.
Nowadays, this plant is used in luxurious resorts in

Palawan and sustainable urban greening projects
in the Philippines as it tolerates salt spray, and it
can grow with minimal care. Various cultivar also
enters the Philippines, with attractive shapes, type of
variegation, and unique leaf margins.
108
109
Non-Native
Common Names: Dwarf Umbrella Plant,

Five fingers, Galamay Amo
Botanical Name: Schefflera arboricola
Family Name: Araliaceae
This evergreen shrub is indigenous to Taiwan and

other parts of China. It is most frequently used as an
indoor plant in pots. Schefflera arboricola is ideal for
bonsai because it has distinctive glossy, pure, dark
leaflets that form an umbrella-like leaf and a woody
stalk.
A small amount of sunlight and water are all that this

plant needs to flourish successfully (Badalamenti,
2021). Because of its numerous woody branches, it
is also a fantastic option for landscaping, making
hedges for planting strips along roads and pathways
as well as parks. Periodically, it is pruned to keep the
proper height and shape.
110
Non-Native
Common Names: Variegated Schefflera

Botanical Name: Schefflera arboricola
‘variegata’
Family Name: Araliaceae
A variety of the dwarf umbrella plant, this one is

Schefflera arboricola variegata. This plant features
a remarkable variegation in its leaves as compared
to the dwarf umbrella’s glossy, pure green leaves.
This plant’s natural green leaves and vivid yellow
combination make it ideal for use as a landscaping
accent (Chen, 2002).
Contrary to Schefflera arboricola, this variety prefers

full sunlight when growing instead of shaded
environments. The exposure to the full sun helps
make its variegation more prominent.
111
Native
Common Names: Eugenia

Botanical Name: Syzygium spp.
Eugenias are usually cultivated and planted in

rows and hedges. Naturally thriving in tropical
climates, it can grow into a woody tree from 2
to 20 meters in height.
A distinct beauty of this plant is the color

changes of its leaf developments. New leaves
sprout in reddish colors, and they eventually
turn brown into green as they reach their
maximum size. As the new leaves sprout on the
edges of the foliage, the plants almost change
colors whenever there are developments,
especially on flushing after being trimmed.
Some opt to shape groups of this plant into

angular hedges or turn them into pyramid
shapes. It is perfect for plain accented types of
landscapes.
For maintenance, it thrives on well-drained

soils but can’t tolerate drought. It can be
propagated through marcotting and through
cuttings from new stalk sprouts. Be mindful
in replanting, as this plant can’t really survive
being transplanted (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
In cultivation, there have been developments

and introduction of varieties of Eugenia.
Although the most common cultivated
Eugenia develops orange leaf sprouts, a red
variety produces a new set of leaves in bright
red color. Other varieties develop yellow
sprouts and turn bluish-green in maturity.
Some develop variations in overall color
with combinations of pink, dark green, and
white all in one leaf. Finally, another variety
also develops heart-shaped leaves with dark
colored stalks.
112
Syzygium Resilience Baby Boomers
Black Eugenia Heart-Shaped Eugenia
Red Eugenia Variegated Eugenia
113
Native
Common Names: Dwarf Pandakaki

Botanical Name: Tabernaemontana divaricata
The Dwarf Pandakaki is a plant native to Southeast

Asia and South-Central China. This plant grows from
0.5 m to 2 meters in height (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
In the Philippines, this is cultivated and produced in

small topiaries. As this is included in landscapes, it
is commonly shaped in hedges and grows in woody
structures that are vigorous and resilient if well
maintained.
One notable characteristic of this plant is its

production of small white flowers present all year
round. Its leaves grow in small sizes and are dark and
shiny. It also attracts butterflies and other pollinators.
114
Non-Native
Common Names: White Angel

Botanical Name: Wrightia antidysenterica
White Angels are native to Sri Lanka and grow well

in Tropical zones. This bushy shrub grows up to 1.5
meters in height (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
One of the distinct features of this plant is its white

fragrant flowers available all year round in high
contrast with its dark-colored stalks. Its yellow-
green leaves show darker pigmentations on the
veins and midribs.
White Angel is great for additional accents in

landscapes. As it adds greenery, planting this adds a
subtle touch of intricacy with its thin branches and
stalks. Finally, the small white flowers add a bit of
fragrance and further improve the experiences of
any visitors to landscapes.
115
Non-Native
Common Names: Water Jasmine, or Shuimei

Botanical Name: Wrightia religiosa
Native from the Philippines, this shrub type plant

grows only up to 2 meters in height (Flora Fauna
Web, 2022). This plant is known for its production of
small flowers drooping down and exudes a strong
fragrant smell similar to the Jasmine’s.
The Water Jasmine also flowers all year round, and

is usually planted near religious sites in temples and
near churches. This plant also thrives under semi-
shaded under full sun.
For maintenance, this plant is great on well drained

soils, and can be propagated through cuttings of the
stem. Planting this is great on smaller walkways and
on elevated plant boxes that introduce floral scents
to guests in the landscapes.
116
HERBS
These are plants with non-woody stems. They typically
die annually or after flowering. It can be used for mass
planting, foundation planting, landscape statement, and
specimen planting to add colors and shapes.
117
Non-Native
Common Names: Agave

Botanical Name: Agave spp.
Agaves easily achieve scenes of drought landscapes. Also

commonly known as the Century Plant, they naturally grow
around 7,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level. Origins have not
been identified yet, as these are found almost everywhere
(Flaura Fauna Web, 2021) They usually grow on crevasses
of rocks and dunes. But in cultivation across multiple
regions, they have been observed for multiple uses on food,
decorations, clothing, and more (Gentry,1972).
Agaves have many variations, one commonly used

for landscape is the Agave americana, this variety is
characterized by its full green color. Most Agave plants
have thorns as their natural defense, some develop thorns
on the leaf blades, and some varieties on the leaf apex.
Agave tequiliana, another species, is used mainly for
the production of tequilas. Raw Agaves are cooked and
undergo tedious processes to finally produce the tequila
(Salazar, 2021).
One particular characteristic of the Agaves is their ability to

store water in arid areas. Animals have also been observed
to eat the leaves and flower stalks. Agaves develop flowers
that grow very high depending on the variety. These fleshy
flowers also act as water sources for bats and as they
consume and transfer from one flower to another, they
convey capsules containing genetic material to further
continue dispersal and pollination (Gentry, 1972).
Agaves are one option to further enhance landscapes,

as they are usually placed as a centerpiece. They are also
observed to be used as a natural barrier for crowd control.
118
Native
Common Names: Alocasia

Botanical Name: Alocasia sanderiana
Family Name: Araceae
IUCN Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
The Alocasia sanderiana is native to the Philippines.

Endemic in Mindanao, this Alocasia is distinct with
its unusual leaf appearance (Singapore Botanic
Gardens, 1999).
A very well-patterned leaf of this plant shows the

distinctive leaf margins and midribs that are white.
In contrast to its dark green and leathery texture,
the veins really do pop-out. The edges, with lobes
surrounded by white margins further enhance its
striking shape.
This plant thrives naturally in damp areas and in low

altitudes. Due to its unusual and amazing looks, the
A. sanderiana is now being cultivated for ornamental
use, and has been introduced in Europe and America
(Merril, 1974).
During these times, this plant is still widely available

in the market as one of the favorites of collectors
and plant enthusiasts. Planting this in landscapes
is applicable to indoors, and in plant boxes. The A.
sanderiana in a row of plants can be easily recognized
with its uniqueness and outstanding beauty.
119
Non-Native
Common Names: Red Ginger

Botanical Name: Alpinia purpurata
Family Name: Zingiberaceae
Gingers have been used for food spices worldwide,

and now through cultivation of its varieties with
aesthetic characteristics, it has now found its part in
greening urban landscapes.
The Red ginger is native to Papua new guinea (CABI,

2020). Similar to gingers, it develops rhizomes to
reproduce. New stems emerge from these rhizomes
producing new sprouts.
A reason for the introduction and cultivation of

this plant is its production of beautiful flowers. As
large leaves emerge, it develops red bright bracts
overlapping and creating a cone shape of around 12
inches long (Kobayashi et al., 2007).
As the flowers mature, they turn and develop into

sprouts and grow until their weight bears down the
whole former flower. Upon reaching the ground, it
develops roots forming another set of plants.
The flowers can also be used for cut-flowers, added

to bouquets or placed in vases submerged in water
solutions as decors in comfort rooms.
The Red ginger can grow up to 4 meters tall (Stuart,

2017). Inclusion in landscapes demands regular
maintenance to maintain favorable height. It is great
to fill in plots of gaps in backdrops behind accessible
feature plants.
120
Non-Native
Common Names: Cuban Cigar, or Calathea

Botanical Name: Calathea lutea
Family Name: Marantaceae
The genus Calathea are naturally from the tropical

regions of the Americas and are known for their
many variations in color, size, and leaf shapes.
Calathea lutea are distinct with their towering

heights and grand leaves that are best for landscape
backdrops. This can grow up to 4 meters in height.
Studies have even shown the love of pollinators for

its flowers (Florian et. al, 2019). Planting this can
have your landscapes visited by hummingbirds and
butterflies!
It is a favorite plant in resorts and hotels as it provides

the vibe of tropical beach paradise.
121
Non-Native
Common Names: Canna Lily

Botanical Name: Canna indica
Family Name: Cannaceae
A small shrub capable of growing in watery areas,

Canna Lily is a delight to see on landscapes. Native
to Mexico and the Caribbean, this plant regularly
produces flowers all year!
Several cultivars develop different colors of flowers

from red, and yellow to orange. The leaves are broad
and it grows in clumps through sprouts. It can be
propagated through its rhizomes, by dividing the
root structures and replanting them. Canna Lilies
thrive in direct sun to partial shade and require
lots of water. Although it can easily reproduce, its
maximum height can only reach up to 1.5 meters.
Canna Lilies share certain similarities in leaf textures

and growth forms with the Heliconias, although
both have their own uniqueness, this plant is great
for providing vibrant flowers for tropical accents
(Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
122
Non-Native
Common Names: Red Ginger Button

Botanical Name: Costus woodsonii
Family Name: Costaceae
An herb with smooth, lush leaves spirally growing on

its stem and a bright cone-shaped flower from its tip
that attracts birds and insects, which blooms all year
around.
This plant is abundant in tropical regions of Asia,

Africa, and America (Aswathi, et. al., 2015). It is being
sought for its capacity to thrive both in sun-exposed
and shaded areas and can survive with a small
amount of moisture without losing its flowers.
With flowers that bloom even in shaded areas,

the red ginger button is one of the best choices
for commercial areas especially those malls with
landscape inside.
123
Non-Native
Common Names: Golden Crinum Lily

Botanical Name: Crinum xanthophyllum
Cultiver
Family Name: Amaryllidaceae
Golden Lilies, a cultivar of the Spider Lilies show

exceptional beauty with their vibrant green to
yellow leaves. Native to Asia, this plant has been
cultivated and naturalized in many tropical
regions around the globe (Missouri Botanical
Garden, n.d.).
Golden Lilies are great for underplantings and

improve the appearance of any centerpiece by
planting them around it. For maintenance, it
can be easily cut back to the ground to retain a
smaller height or have it grown to their full size up
to 5 feet (Gilman, 2014).
This plant readily adapts upon establishment of

bulbs and grows light green colored leaves on
shady areas up to the brightest of yellows under
full sun. Upon maturity, it produces white flowers.
Uncultivated Crinums tend to multiply through
bulbs and can be easily reproduced by separation
and replanting.
124
Non-Native
Common Names: Heliconia

Botanical Name: Heliconia psittacorum
Family Name: Heliconiaceae
Heliconias are one of the most diversified flowering plants.

The Heliconia genus alone has 380 species, each with its
hybrids. All of which have variations that mimic birds, and
claws, and show varieties of color combinations. Studies
have shown different endemicity and nativity for each
species and hybrids, all of which are from Neotropical
origins (Costa, et. al., 2016).
Heliconia psittacorum, has its own set of hybrids. This type

of Heliconia is also called the ‘False Birds of Paradise’. This
plant grows up to 1 - 1.5m in height and flowers all year (Flora
Fauna Web, 2021). It is best suited for outdoors, and while
planted on direct soils, it can reproduce quickly through
the division of their rhizomes. With its fast growth rates
and resilience, this plant is one of the easiest flowering
plants to maintain.
Heliconias also add different modes of vibrancy to

landscapes with its lively and sturdy flowers. Some hybrids
have orange and red combinations, some have red and
yellow, and some have pink colors. This is also used for
cut flowers that last for days to weeks depending on the
variations. Planting this will allow a regular supply of fresh-
cut flowers that can be used for vases and bouquets.
In addition to these, as the Heliconias beautify our

landscapes, it can also improve biodiversity as it attracts
pollinators (Cruz, 2014). Planting Heliconias are one of the
best choices to beautify landscapes.
125
Non-Native
Common Names: Spider Lily

Botanical Name: Hymenocallis littoralis
Family Name: Amaryllidaceae
Native to South America, these ornamental herbs are

highly adapted to our beach fronts and shorelines.
It bears a beautiful spider-like white flower in the
center surrounded by long green broad leathery
leaves during summer.
It can reproduce fast and can be easily propagated

through bulbs. It can thrive in areas with very high
moisture as well as dry areas (Singh & Saxena, 2017).
It is perfect for garden edges, pots, and plant boxes in
parks and commercial areas. It only requires minimal
maintenance. Wind and salt spray tolerant, but easily
infected by leaf rust fungi every wet season.
Its flowers do not last for a very long time. However,

Spider Lilies can recover within a couple of weeks
after trimming and blooming new flowers again.
126
Native
Common Names: Impatiens

Botanical Name: Impatiens balsamina
Family Name: Balsaminaceae
The Genus Impatiens comprises multiple species. Several of

these are native to the Philippines (Pelser, 2018a).
The plants of Impatiens in laymanized point of view, may

look similar, but each species produces different types of
leaf arrangement, flowers, and growth forms. The Impatiens
ahernii, for one, is endemic in the Philippines. It can only
naturally be found in the province of Rizal (Pelser, 2018b).
These plants thrive in shaded areas on forest floors. They

thrive, and show their own set of beauty within the thick
foliage of other plants, producing bright flowers in clumps.
These make them easily noticeable to pollinators.
On their own, many of the species of Impatiens have

been observed to thrive rapidly; others are even referred
to as weeds. In the US, the impatiens are known as the
“Jewelweed”; nevertheless, they are cultivated and sold by
merchants for garden supplies (Reich, 2021).
Planting Impatiens is relatively easy, but due to their rapid

spread upon establishment, they may require close control
in terms of maintenance, and cultivation. Otherwise, they
may really become weeds in gardens and landscapes.
127
VINES
Vines are plants that grow in a trailing or running pattern.
It is best to use them on trellis and pergolas, privacy
fences, and vertical gardens.
128
Non-Native
Common Names: Pothos

Botanical Name: Epipremnum aureum
Native of the Solomon Islands (Flora Fauna Web,

2022), the Pothos plant has been naturalized in the
Philippines and has been originally distributed in
Luzon (Pelser, 2022). Along with the booming industry
of developments in urban landscapes, this plant has
also been recently cultivated for ornamental use.
In a natural setting, this plant climbs trees and can

grow up to 12 meters long. As it reaches heights,
it develops larger leaves that can reach up to 70
centimeters in length.
In the urban setting, this plant is usually seen planted as

ground covers in plant boxes and pots in Landscapes.
Also known as a water plant, it can easily thrive in
stressful areas, both under the full sun and indoors.
Gardeners usually add it to enhance the lush

appearance of a landscape. It can be easily propagated
through cuttings, and once established it can cover a
bare soil area. This plant can also be planted in small
pots and placed on table tops.
Pothos have also been cultivated along with many

other varieties of color, leaf patterns, and growth forms.
129
Manjula Pothos Pothos N’joy
Queen Marble Pothos Neon Pothos
130
Native
Common Names: Tibatib, or Dragon’s Tail

Botanical Name: Epipremnum pinnatum
A perennial vine, the Tibatib is native to the

Philippine forests. This vine can grow up to 15 to 20
meters in height, climbing the highest of trees.
The leaves during the younger ages of the plants are

simple climbers. Upon maturity, it develops lobes
and bigger leaves up to 50 centimeters in length.
Mature leaves resemble Monstera deliciosa, another
vine known for indoor planting (Flora Fauna Web,
2022).
The Tibatib can be easily reproduced through

cuttings of stems. It is now also being cultivated for
indoor planting in homes. Some opt for this climb
trellises, although it may destroy structures upon its
establishment.
This vine can thrive in shade, but loves full sun. In

maintenance, it does not really require intensive
care, especially upon establishment.
As the Tibatib is cultivated and introduced to many

regions around the world, it is now also considered
invasive. This species has been recorded to thrive in
forests of Galapagos, Tanzania, and Hawaii, among
others. From the forest floors, it grows and thrives,
climbing and competing with native species of
these regions (CABI, 2022).
131
Non-Native
Common Names: New Guinea Creeper, or

Scarlet Jade Vine
Botanical Name: Mucuna bennettii
Mucuna bennettii is one of the best flowering

vines that can grow in a pergola. Also known as
New Guinea Creeper or Red Jade Vine, this climber
needs much space to grow as it can reach up to
100 feet. Found in the forests of Papua New Guinea,
this vine produces spectacular bright orange-red
blooms that cascade on tree branches where it has
climbed. It can be seen from a distance among the
primarily green surroundings. No wonder it is also
called the “Flame of the Forest” plant.
This plant needs a lot of watering but should never

be waterlogged. If growing in a pot, make sure to
use the biggest size possible, with good drainage. It
needs moist and rich soil. It also grows quickly and
responds very well to inorganic fertilizers, especially
those high in nitrogen, applied twice a month
during the growing season.
Aside from pergolas and other trellises, it can also

be grown on garden gates, gazebos, and on top of
greenhouses.
132
Non-Native
Common Names: Philodendron ‘Micans’

Botanical Name: Philodendron hederaceum
‘micans’
An autotrophic vine native to the Central Americas,

the Philodendron Micans is known for its tolerance to
indoor plantings. During the pandemic, many people
have discovered the beauty of tending plants, and in
the plants applicable indoors, the Micans reserves its
own special seat.
The variety is distinct with its velvety leaves and rare

darker colors. Different from other vines, the Micans
can grow and travel up to 6 meters in length, and
grow relatively slower than other vines (Flora Fauna
Web, 2022). This plant is also known as the Heartleaf
Philodendron, due to the heartleaf shapes.
Planting this vine is great for parks that have shaded

sections, such as near tree bases, trellis and building
perimeters.
133
Native
Common Names: Jade Vine, or Tayabak

Botanical Name: Strongylodon macrobotrys
A native of the Philippines, locally known as “Tayabak”, this

vine produces one of the most vibrant and beautiful flowers in
the forests. It has been extensively introduced in other tropical
regions such as India and New Guinea, among others (Kew, n.d.).
This vine was first discovered in 1841 in the Philippines, around

the slopes of the elegant Mt. Makiling. It can be noticeable with
its bright jade-colored flowers, dropping from the highest of
trees. The groups of flowers are shaped like claws that can grow
in total up to 3 meters in length. It can grow as it climbs trees
up to 18 meters in height. As it reaches branches, it develops
flowers to hang for pollination.
The Jade vine is naturally pollinated by bats, and since the

discovery of the vine, there has been no recorded natural
biological activity through seeds (Ragasa, 2014). All propagations
in cultivation came from anthropogenic interventions, as it is
now famous for its ornamental use.
One newly discovered species of the Strongylodon is the

Strongylodon juangonzalenzii. The flowers of this vine are
described to grow laterally in clumps with purple colors
(Hadsall, 2016).
The Jade vine has been reported by the DENR as endangered, as

per DAO 2017 -11. Following this, the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas
have included this vine in one of our coins. It can be seen behind
the latest 5 peso coins (Chan, 2018).
134
Native
Common Names: Niyog-niyogan, or

Rangoon creeper
Botanical Name: Quisqualis indica
Family Name: Combretaceae
Niyog-niyogan is a very tough woody vine. It can

climb up to the 4th floor of the building if used as a
green wall. It can even grow in steel parking lots as
it is able to survive the heating metal even during
summertime. It is reliable dense green cover up to
hard views of steel parking structures in the urban
centers, and advisable for trellis and pergola, too.
It flowers all year round specially when watered

and fertilized regularly. Its bloom has fragrant scent
making it attractive aside from the fact that it can
easily multiply by way of cutting matured stems
(Madulid, 2000). It is also tolerant to wind and
salt spray which makes it also ideal for beach front
greening projects.
135
AERIAL PLANTS
Aerial plants typically grow on other plants, such as tree
trunks. They are commonly found in natural forests,
particularly in canopies. They can be used in urban
greening to maximize vertical space, add color and
texture, and provide a tropical feel to greeneries.
136
Native
Common Names: Pakpak-Lauin, or

Bird’s Nest Fern
Botanical Name: Asplenium nidus
Family Name: Aspleniaceae
The Pakpak-Lauin or the Bird’s Nest Fern are often

seen in interior landscapes or centerpieces of shaded
plant boxes. This plant is naturally occurring in low
and medium altitudes of forests. As it is common to
many forests in Asia, some regions have been found
to cultivate them for consumption (Stuart, 2017).
Native to tropical regions of Philippines and Asia

(Flora Fauna Web, 2022), this fern is naturally seen
growing in tree cavities or on moist soils on the forest
floor. One distinct feature of this fern is its growth
size, relative to other ferns; it can develop leaves
where its overall spread reaches up to 3 meters in
diameter.
Planting this is great to easily cover an area with

foliage in shaded areas. To maintain and allow for it
to grow, it requires a good moderate source of water.
137
Native
Common Names: Manaog Ka Irog

Botanical Name: Dischidia oiantha
This aerial plant can only be found in the Philippine

forests naturally. In urban areas, it grows hanging
on the trees in old plazas, mansions, and ancestral
houses.
In recent years, as urban development hastened

in the country, the demand for vertical gardens
increased as well.
This plant became one of the favorites to plant

in vertical gardens as it can survive with minimal
maintenance, survives strong winds, drought, and
urban pollution.
138
Native
Common Names: Kapa-kapa

Botanical Name: Medinilla magnifica
Family Name: Melastomaceae
The Kapa kapa, also known as the “Philippine Orchid” is

a glamorous epiphyte. The genus Medinilla is a group of
plants native to the Philippines (Pelser, 2022).
Epiphytes are plants that can grow on tree trunks or

rocks, wherein they hold themselves with their roots,
harnessing nutrients, moisture without the need for an
actual soil. Orchids and air plants are examples of these
epiphytes (Petruzzello, 2020).
As for the Medinilla magnifica, it produces glamorous

sets of flowers cascading from its leaves. The majestic pink
flower clusters resemble a chandelier. The protruding
pink parts are the bracts surrounding the smaller flowers
(Martin, 2022).
This plant is now also cultivated for ornamental use, and

as it is naturally thriving in semi-shaded conditions, it can
adapt indoors. Planting this as a houseplant requires well-
drained soil. The leaves are hard and leathery in structure
and these dark green leaves further enhance the beauty
of the pink flowers.
A proudly native plant, the uniqueness of the Kapa kapa is

absolutely one of its kind.
139
GROUND COVERS
Ground covers are plants that have a low growing habit.
It can grow quickly and densely enough to cover topsoil.
They are used to easily protect soil from erosion during
wet seasons and from drought during dry seasons.
140
Non-Native
Common Names: Red Creepers

Botanical Name: Alternanthera brasiliana
Family Name: Amaranthaceae
The Alternanthera genus has been cultivated locally to

add a bright red and dark red look to ground covers in
landscapes. Native to Mexico and Central America, this
is locally known in the Philippines as the ‘Red Creepers’.
Although there are other species of this genus that further
introduces variations.
For instance, the brasiliana species is characterized by its

brightish purple colors, while the dentata species has the
darkest purples. Although both species are interchangeably
used, planting them correctly in batches can help in
achieving proper shades of purple.
This herbaceous plant grows only up to 0.9 meters in height,

and it is advisable to be trimmed down to 0.4 m to prevent
them from being “leggy”. This means that a plant reaches
a height that lessens its production of leaves (Perry, 2020).
Trimming them down also increases its leaf production.
Another reason why this plant are cultivated is due to its

capability to easily reproduce through cuttings. This can
be propagated easily by planting cuttings of apical stalks
and matured stalks. Upon establishment, it can tolerate
drought, and on wilting, it can easily survive watering (Flora
Fauna Web, 2021).
Due to its fame, Alternanthera has been naturalized in

many regions of the world (Weeds of Australia, 2016). As a
result, many localized names have emerged, including Joy
Weed, Calico, Metal Weed, Ruby Leaf, and many more!
141
Non-Native
Common Names: Callisia

Botanical Name: Callisia fragrans
Family Name: Commelinaceae
The creeping Callisia has been known by many names.

It is also called the Basket plant, False bromeliad, and
Octopus plant. The Callisia is one of the easiest plants
to grow and can reproduce very quickly.
This plant has green leaves growing outwards from

a single stem, resembling that of the bromeliads.
Unlike bromeliads, its leaves are soft. The Callisias
increase its extent of covers through the production
of creeping stems; as this contacts the ground, it
produces a new set of plants (Nielsen, 2021).
Upon maturity, this plant produces white flowers

that have a strong scent. With its rapid growth and
spread, the Callisia is marked as invasive (CABI, 2022).
The Callisia plant can survive under shaded

conditions, and grows vigorously and aggressively
upon establishment under direct sun. Planting this
in groups as ground covers provides a continuous
supply of green foliage to a landscape.
142
Non-Native
Common Names: Boston Fern

Botanical Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
‘bostoniensis’
Family Name: Nephrolepidaceae
Boston Ferns or Sword Ferns, are known for their

resiliency and reliability as houseplants, especially
in colder regions. This plant is native to South
America to Mexico.
In the Philippines, this is used as ground covers

and accents on landscapes as it can thrive outdoors
in mild climates. This fern is widely cultivated and
have been introduced to many regions of the world
(GBIF, 2021).
Boston Ferns can also be planted on pots, hanging,

or directly to the ground. It can grow up to 4 feet
long with leaves up to 6 inches wide (Mahr, 2015).
143
Non-Native
Common Names: Aluminum Plant

Botanical Name: Pilea cadierei
Family Name: Urticaceae
Another species of the Pilea genus is the Aluminum

plant. This small ground cover is distributed to China
and Vietnam and has found its way to be naturalized
in the Philippines (Pelser, 2021b).
It got its name from its looks, with its leaves

appearing to have been smothered with aluminum
paint (N.C. State, n.d.). Similar to the creeping Charlie,
the aluminum plant also thrives well in semi-shaded
areas. It requires well-drained soil and lots of water.
This plant grows small, only up to 1 foot in height.

Unlike other members of its family, the Aluminum
plant does not have hair-like structures in its stem
(Brittanica, 2018).
In cultivation, it can also be reproduced through

cuttings. It is great to be included in landscapes as
ground covers, introducing additional palette and
color combination to a scene.
144
Non-Native
Common Names: Creeping Charlie

Botanical Name: Pilea nummulariifolia
Family Name: Urticaceae
Naturally distributed in America, this plant is

introduced in the Philippines through cultivation
(Pelser, 2021b).
The Creeping Charlie plant is a fast growing ground

cover. This plant is distinct with its small bright green
leaves. The leaves have rough patterns and have hair-
like structures. Its small stems creep through the soil
and can easily cover an open area.
Planting this is great in semi-shaded areas. It may

burn in direct sun and will also not thrive in full shade.
The Pileas require lots of water and well-drained soil.
If one of these conditions is not met, it cannot cover
an area quickly (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
This plant is one of the better choices for covering

shaded areas. Cuttings can be used to reproduce
them. The leaves can also be used for teas! (N.C.
State, n.d.).
145
Non-Native
Common Names: Ruellia, or Mexican Petunia

Botanical Name: Ruellia simplex
Also known as the Mexican Petunias, this plant is

known for its continuous production of small flowers
perfect for colors in our ground covers. The Ruellia
species has many cultivars that result in variations in
its leaves, growth form, and flower colors.
Native to Mexico (Horticulture Unlimited, 2020),

Ruellias thrive in marsh areas and are found to
survive even on soils adjacent to drainages and river
banks. Contrary, it can also survive drought under
full sun and limited water sources (Wilson, 2020).
The Ruellia however, is invasive as declared by the

Florida Exotic Pest Council (Orwat, 2017). This species
is described to displace native species in their region.
The inclusion of Ruellias in the urban developments

may introduce a new look to ground covers with its
constant supply of flowers. But including this will
require constant maintenance procedures to ensure
controlled growth and prohibits them from altering
the natural growth of other native plants.
146
Non-Native
Common Names: Pink Rain Lily

Botanical Name: Zephyranthes robusta
Family Name: Liliaceae
As its name implies, this plant likes the rainy season

as it blooms abundantly. It grows even in shaded,
windy and drought prone areas but not to location
with salt sprays and with high pollutants. This is
ideally planted in sub urban centers.
During the rainy season when most of the plants

intensely produce leaves, this plant blooms, making
it more prominent and head turner throughout wet
days of the year.
It grows very fast and is propagated by bulbs.
147
TURF AND LAWN
These are grasses that must be cut or maintained. They
serve as topsoil cover, a safe place to absorb impact, and a
cushion in active greenspaces.
148
Non-Native
Common Names: Frog Grass

Botanical Name: Axonopus compressus
cultivar
Frog grass is one of the most commonly used species

for turfs. Originally, Axonopus compressus is a native
of South America, Mexico, and Brazil, however,
cultivars are now widely available for use worldwide.
A specific cultivar of the Axonopus compressus, the

Frog grass, that exhibits a dwarfed-like leaf shape is
available in the Philippines. This is distinct through
its compacted growth patterns that appear to hold
and fully cover the soil upon its establishment, and
this growth habit is great for turf covers.
For maintenance and proper care, Frog Grass does

not require regular trimming as compared to other
grasses, and only needs a good amount of sun, well-
drained soil and a good water source. Having these
will keep our landscape free of patches with fully
covered turf (Flora Fauna Web, 2021).
149
Non-Native
Common Names: White Lily Turf

Botanical Name: Ophiopogon jaburan
‘Vittatus’
This perennial plant is distinct in its appearance

through its pointed apex and white margin leaves.
It grows from 0.3 meters up to 0.6 meters in height.
As it is known to spread wildly when uncultivated, it

is a good choice as a ground cover with a twist. The
whitish appearance of its leaves introduces a new
color scheme to landscapes and can help achieve
contrasting colors among other ground covers. A
good option is to incorporate it through layers and
strips with dark-colored ground covers and with
other vibrant flowering shrubs.
This plant is also best suited in areas with high wind

velocities such as balconies, or amenities on upper
levels of a high-rise building (Flora Fauna 2022).
This plant prefers well-drained soils and are easier to

maintain in direct sun.
150
Non-Native
Common Names: Carabao Grass

Botanical Name: Paspalum conjugatum
One of the most widespread weeds, it significantly

naturalized in tropical Southeast Asian and Pacific
Island regions despite being native to America
(Ipor,1993).
It is well-known in the landscaping field and

commonly used as ornamental grass for lawns,
roadsides, and golf courses. It is a top option for
ground cover because of its vigor and resilience.
Carabao grass can thrive both in direct sunlight and

under the shade. Unlike other grasses, it is a natural
creeper that slowly envelops its surroundings,
making it ideal for lawns in homes and parks.
It is simple to maintain by regularly mowing and

aerating the grass.
151
SPECIES OF CONCERN
IN URBAN GREENING
These plants may pose danger to humans or properties.
Some of these are considered invasive. Overall,
these species may reduce the ecological function of
greenspaces.
152
Invasive Non-Native
Common Names: Acacia

Botanical Name: Acacia auriculiformis
Acacia auriculiformis is a vigorous flowering tree

naturalized in the Philippines (Pelser, 2020). Naturally
occurring from the forests of Australia, Papua New
Guinea, and Indonesia, this tree is known to be used
for reforestation and ornamental use.
Acacia auriculiformis can be identified with its

simple leaves with parallel veins following the leaf
shape. They are dark green and glossy in color.
During summer, it produces yellow flowers providing
fragrance to its environment. However, along
with the fragrance are millions of pollens that can
induce reactivity to humans. A study showed high
reactivity among Filipinos in exposure to pollen of
the Acacia (Sabit, 2020); these can induce Pollinosis,
or the occurrence of respiratory symptoms due to
inhalation of pollen (Barta, 2009).
Acacia auriculiformis is classified as an invasive

species in some regions of Asia, Africa, North America,
Caribbean, and Oceana. As its introduction may affect
natural regeneration of forest stands from native
species, some states such as Hawaii, recommend this
species be exterminated (CABI, 2022).
153
Non-Native
Common Names: Bougainvillea

Botanical Name: Bougainvillea spp.
Family Name: Nyctaginaceae
Bougainvillea is a genus of 18 species; within the

set of species are variations of colors of the bracts
and leaf growth patterns. Bougainvilleas are a
family of Nyctaginaceae, also known as the ‘Four-
o’clock’ family.
And yes, the colors that we see in bougainvilleas

are specialized leaves called bracts. Some species
of bougainvilleas have white, pink, red, and even
orange colors. The flowers are the smaller ones
located within those bracks (Brittanica, 2022).
These plants are native to South America and have

been cultivated worldwide due to their variations
in color. They are usually planted in trellises, where
they climb and cover with their colors. They can
also be planted in pots and assume a shrub shape,
or in plant boxes shaped into hedges.
Bougainvilleas are usually grafted to join multiple

colors of bracts in a single plant. Grafting is
done by wounding the main plant and joining it
with another branch of another species of the
Bougainvillea. This can be observed in nurseries,
wherein a mother plant almost turning into a tree,
have colors of orange, white, and pink in a single
pot (Medenilla, 2021).
One should also be careful in handling this plant,

as they are also known for their thorns. Like roses,
the thorns are located on the bases of the leaves
and act as natural protection for the plant (Flora
Fauna Web, 2022).
In maintenance, these plants are known to further

bloom under stress, and they are very tolerant to
drought upon establishment. Although excessive
stress may result in failures and dormancy
(Kobayashi, 2007).
Although they are plants of beauty, Bougainvilleas

are marked by CABI as an invasive species. CABI
stands for the Center for Agriculture and Bioscience
International. They are marked as invasive as they are
characterized as aggressive climbing vines, and are
extensively being introduced for cultivation in many
tropical regions in the world (Sandoval, 2018).
154
Non-Native
Common Names: Peacock Flower - Yellow,

or Yellow Caballero
Botanical Name: Caesalpinia pulcherrima
f. flav
A forma or special form of the Pride of Barbados

is the Peacock Flower. Generally identified with its
full yellow flower, this plant exhibits all of the similar
characteristics of the Red Bird of Paradise.
One option is to plant this interchangeably with

the Pride of Barbados to play with the colors of its
flowers. It is often also seen in gardens exhibiting
yellow colors (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
It can be planted in strips or as lone shrubs as it

improves the Landscapes’ appearance through their
flowers.
Similar to the Red bird of Paradise, the Yellow

Caballero also acts as a weed. Introduction to a
new region catalyzes its competition among native
species (CABI, 2022b).
155
Non-Native
Common Names: Red Bird of Paradise, or

Red Caballero
Botanical Name: Caesalpinia pulcherrima
Also known as the “Pride of Barbados”, this plant is

known for its colorful red to orange flowers. Native to
Mexico and the Caribbean, it has also been cultivated
for ornamental use (NC State, n.d.).
This plant can grow up to 6 meters in height and

develops flowers all year round. Although the
flowers are scentless, they attract butterflies and
hummingbirds! This plant develops fruits in pods as
usual in the Fabaceae family.
Planting this in direct sun assures the brightest

flowers. This plant is great for landscapes as a shrub
that can add a tinge of vibrance to its overall look.
The Red Caballero has been marked as invasive.

There have been citations of this species reported
as “weed”, “cultivation escape”, and “naturalised”.
Current cultivation of this species allows it to
extensively proliferate and acts as a weed, posing
threats in competition of pollination among native
species (CABI, 2022a).
156
Non-Native
Common Names: Hearth of Jesus, or

Corazon de Maria
Botanical Name: Caladium bicolor
Corazon de Maria became a popular indoor house

plant during pandemic days. This plant is native
to South America. Nowadays, C. bicolor is listed as
invasive in Trinidad and Tobago, Guam, Micronesia,
Palau, Hawaii and the Philippines, which is
considered as aggressively dominating shaded forest
floor and moist environment, changing ecological
composition and structure, thus, not maximizing
benefits of greenspaces (Space et al., 2003; Herrera
et al., 2010; PIER, 2016; Trinidad Biodiversity, 2016).
157
Native
Common Names: Balete

Botanical Name: Ficus elastica
This is branded as a weed to the environment and

a constrictor of healthy trees. This tree is commonly
used in urban settings due to its wide and thick
canopy. In old parks and plazas in the Philippines,
this tree and Rain tree (Samanea saman) were the
favorite shade trees. It is recorded as invasive to
various countries including the Philippines.
Its seeds grow at the canopy of the healthy trees

until it dominates the canopy and will restrict
photosynthesis to its host plant which eventually
dies. Aside from that, its woody roots will thug the
main trunk which will restrict the flow of nutrients
and fluids until they die.
158
Non-Native
Common Names: Coronitas

Botanical Name: Lantana camara
Family Name: Verbenaceae
This is considered an environmental weed in various

countries including Australia as it dominates the land
in agricultural or urban places. It competes to native
trees and is poisonous to livestock. Centuries of
integrated weed management has been conducted
in different countries to lessen the impact to native
plants and to maximize the potential benefits of
urban greenspaces.
Even though it is observed that birds and insects

feed on it, it still grows aggressively dominating
the landscape. It was introduced in the Philippines
from tropical countries of America for its ornamental
functions. Recently, various cultivars are now being
imported in the country with flowers ranging from
full red, orange, white, yellow to multiple colors in
a single flower. Its woody dense bush growth habit
might intensify bush fire in dry areas.
159
Non-Native
Common Names: Wedelia

Botanical Name: Sphagneticola trillobata
Family Name: Asteraceae
Wedelias species are one of the easiest ground cover

plants to reproduce. As it is listed as one of the 100
most invasive species of IUCN, it tends to overgrow
and the challenge here is to maintain and contain
where it grows.
Wedelias can spread aggressively alone in the

wild, and can even survive and grow through stem
cuttings Planting this may affect other plants and
mammals as it contains a certain chemical that
may induce fetal abortion. Wedelias also exhibit
allelopathy, meaning it could affect the growth of
other plants (Flora Fauna Web, 2022).
Wedelias are always included in a well-maintained

landscape as it adds layers of evergreen leaves
and provide all year round small and bright yellow
flowers. Cultivation exceeding control allows this
species to grow intensively on natural forests as it is
well-suited to many conditions (CABI,2022).
160
Non-Native
Common Names: African Tulip

Botanical Name: Spathodea campanulata
Family Name: Bignoniaceae
The African tulip is a tree native to Africa. This tree is

known for its production of vibrant flowers and are usually
planted in commercial locations, parks, and ornamental
gardens.
This tree is relatively fast-growing and can reach up to 24

meters in height. This tree is well suited to direct sun and
in well-drained soils.
Its beauty, causing intensive introduction, resulted in the

African tulip now being marked as an invasive species
in many parts of the world (CABI, 2022). In Queensland,
Australia, this tree is marked under Class 3 invasive weeds.
One particular risk in planting this tree is its hazard to

pedestrians, the flowers dropped from its foliage can
be very slippery on sidewalks and pavers (State of
Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries,
2021).
Also, in the Philippines, many African tulips are hazardous

due to its brittle trunks that are prone to infestations,
on frequent storms, these trees are the ones to easily fail,
further providing a threat to structures and other people
within their vicinity.
In tree selections, color may not always be a top priority to

consider, but also, especially its effects on the environment.
161
Non-Native
Common Names: Thevetia

Botanical Name: Thevetia peruviana
This evergreen plant originates from Mexico and

Central America. It is distinct with linear leaves that
look very lush. From a shrub, this plant can grow into
a tree producing yellow to peach flowers. The flowers
have a sweet scent and the leaves are smooth and
shiny (Flora Fauna Web, 2022). It is best suited on full
sun and can thrive on small amounts of irrigation.
Although behind all this beauty, the plant is

poisonous, the sap contains a chemical that can
induce extrasystoles (Dear, 2014), or premature
beats (Fish, 2006).
Including this on landscapes would be better on

areas that are not accessible. It can be added in
groups as backdrops, or strips of evergreen shrubs
that provide the landscape with constant flowers.
162
Non-Native
Common Names: Wandering Jew

Botanical Name: Tradescantia zebrina
Family Name: Commelinaceae
This is ideal in shaded areas, but tends to be very

aggressive and invade forest floors in the country.
In the Philippines, we use it as a ground cover and
hanging plant. This was introduced in the Philippine
by Mexico (Madulid, 2000), and there are records
present of the invasion of the secondary forest floor
in Pacific Islands and Queensland, Australia (CAB
International, 2022b).
Alternatively, the native Alikbangon (Commelina

benghalensis) can be planted as a substitute instead.
163
GLOSSARY
aerial plant — a type of plant that grows displacing native species and disrupting
from the stem of the plant or above the natural systems
ground; can be used in urban
greening to maximize vertical space and foliage — the leaves of a plant or tree, or
provide a tropical feel to greeneries leaves growing on stems or branches
bamboo — a tall tropical grass with hard, genus — a class, kind, or group
hollow stems; can be used to create privacy distinguished by their common
fences and control erosion characteristics in particular: a biological
classification category
biosafety — a strategic and integrated
approach to analyzing and managing green space — a piece of land that is
relevant risks to human, animal, plant life, partially or entirely covered in grass, trees,
and environmental risks shrubs, or other vegetation (schoolyards,
community gardens, parks, cemeteries,
bonsai — a dwarfed tree or shrub grown etc.)
in a pot or other container, trained to
produce the desired shape by pruning the greenery — a place where green plants are
roots and pinching grown or kept; green foliage or vegetation
botanical name — a scientific name given greening program — a program aimed at

to a specific plant species; also referred to restoring upland vegetation cover in an
as binomials or “two-part name” area
bract — a modified or specialized leaf that ground cover — a low-growing plant that
grows just below a flower; usually smaller can spread quickly and densely cover
than foliage leaves topsoil; can be used to easily protect the
soil from erosion and drought
common name — a colloquial name given
to a specific plant species, as opposed to hedge plant — a low-growing perennial
the scientific name for the same organism, plant used as a border plant for lawns and
which is Latinized pathways; can provide privacy and
structure to your garden
crown — the area above the trunk where
smaller branches, stems, and twigs herb — a plant with non-woody stems;
develop can be used for mass, planting, foundation
planting, landscape statement, and
cycad — a woody plant that produces specimen planting to add colors and
seeds; can be identified by its cones and shapes
crowns of large pinnately compound
leaves horticulturist — a person who conducts
research or runs a business that involves
diversity — the degree of variation among the cultivation of fruits, vegetables,
living things in a given ecosystem flowers, or ornamental plants
drought — a period of prolonged dryness invasive plant — non-native species that

that causes extensive damage to crops or has an uncontrollable tendency to spread,
prevents their successful growth often choking out native wildlife
ecosystem — a physically defined irrigation — the process of artificially

environment composed of two applying water to crops to improve
interdependent components: abiotic and agricultural production
biotic; can vary in size and be marine,
aquatic, or terrestrial landscape — natural and physical
characteristics of land, as well as air and
endemic — means native to, confined to, water, that can change over time
or widespread within a specific location
lawn — an area covered with regularly
exotic — a non-native plant that can mown grass and plants usually found in a
survive and reproduce in the area, park or around a home
164
mangrove — one of the world’s dominant sepal — a small, leaf-shaped structure
coastal ecosystems, dominated by found in flowering plants that serves as
flowering trees and shrubs that are protection by encasing the developing
uniquely adapted to marine and estuarine flower
tidal environments
shrub — a woody plant with multiple stems
midrib — the central vein of a leaf that smaller than most trees; low maintenance
holds it up and exposes it to sunlight and ideal for borders in gardens
native — a plant that grew naturally in species — a term used to describe a

a specific region, ecosystem, or habitat class of organisms that occupy a specific
without human intervention permanent and relatively constant place
in nature and perform their functions in
non-native — a plant that has been the universal biological metabolism in
intentionally or unintentionally introduced a way that is unique to that organism ;
to an area outside of its native range abbreviated as ‘sp.’ and ‘spp.’ for several
species
palmate — a leaf divided into leaflets that
emerge from the same point; shaped like suburbs — an area outside of a city but
an open palm close to it that consists primarily of homes
but may also include stores and small
palm tree — a type of tropical tree with businesses
a straight, tall trunk and numerous large township — a small town that serves as the
leaves at the top of the trunk business center of a rural area: a term that
is occasionally used to refer to an urban
pine tree — an evergreen tree with fascicles area
of needle-shaped leaves and woody seed-
bearing cones tree — a tall woody plant with a single
stem or trunk and branches that support
plant — a living thing that grows on the leaves
land surface, in water, or on other plants;
usually has a stem, leaves, roots, flowers, tropics — the hottest parts of the planet,
and seeds with temperatures reaching 23.5 degrees
north and south of the equator
pocket garden — a miniature garden that
includes edible plants, plants that attract turf — the top layer of a grassy area
wildlife, and recycled materials composed of a grass mat and its roots
poisonous — extremely harmful and urban — pertaining to, or belonging to, a

capable of causing illness or death; town or city
dangerous to touch or ingest
urban forester — a person in charge of
pollinators — anything that helps transfer long-term planning, planting, protection,
pollen from male to female parts of a maintenance, and care of trees, forests,
flower of the same species (bees, birds, greenspace, and other resources in and
wasps, small mammals, butterflies, etc.) around cities and communities
pollutants — particles, elements, and urban greening — the practice of creating

molecules that contribute to pollution communities that are beneficial to both
humans and the environment; can be
propagate — to produce a new plant from achieved through public landscaping and
an existing one; successive production urban forestry
pruning — the removal of parts of a plant, vegetation — a general term for the plant
tree, or vine that are no longer required life in a certain region; encompasses all
for growth or production, are no longer plants and trees collectively
visually appealing, or are harmful to the
plant’s health or development vines — any plant with twisting stems that
climbs or grows along the ground
real estate — a natural or man-made
property that includes land and anything waterlogging — happens when the soil in
permanently attached to it or built on it a specific region is completely saturated
with water; one of the primary abiotic
stresses experienced by plants
165
INDEX OF BOTANICAL NAME
A E
Acacia auriculiformis 153 Elaeis guineensis 73
Adonidia merrillii 68 Epipremnum aureum 129
Agave spp. 118 Epipremnum pinnatum 131
Alocasia sanderiana 119 Eucalyptus deglupta 37
Alpinia purpurata 120 Excoecaria conchinchinensis 95
Alstonia scholaris 23 Excoecaria conchinchinensis ‘Firestorm’ 94
Alternanthera brasiliana 141
Araucaria heterophylla 24 F
Ardisia pyramidalis 25 Ficus benjamina ‘Variegata’ 38
Asplenium nidus 137 Ficus heteropoda 39
Axonopus compressus cultivar 149 Ficus elastica 158
Azadirachta indica 26
G
B Galphimia glauca 96
Bambusa dolichomerithalla 61
Bambusa multiplex ‘Silverstripe’ 62 H
Bambusa multiplex ‘Variegata’ 63 Heliconia psittacorum 125
Barringtonia asiatica 27 Hymenocallis littoralis 126
Bauhinia monandra 28 Hibanobambusa tranquillans
Bismarckia nobilis 69 ‘Shiroshima’ 64
Bougainvillea spp. 154 Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 97
Hibiscus tiliaceus 40
C Hyophorbe lagenicaulis 74
Caesalpinia pulcherrima 156
Caesalpinia pulcherrima f. flav 155 I
Caladium bicolor 157 Impatiens balsamina 127
Calathea lutea 121
Calliandra haematocephala 83 J
Callisia fragrans 142 Jasminum auriculatum 101
Callistemon viminalis 29 Jasminum sambac 102
Calophyllum inophyllum 30 Jatropha integerrima 103
Cananga odorata 31
Canna indica 122 L
Carmona retusa 85 Lagerstroemia langkawiensis 42
Caryota rumphiana 70 Lantana camara 159
Catharanthus roseus 87 Licuala grandis 75
Cinnamomum mercadoi 32
Clerodendrum incisums 88 M
Clerodendrum quadriloculare 33 Medinilla magnifica 139
Cordilyne terminalis 86 Melaleuca bracteata 43
Costus woodsonii 123 Michelia alba 44
Crateva religiosa 34 Mucuna bennettii 132
Crinum xanthophyllum Cultivar 124 Murraya paniculata 104
Crossandrainfundibuliformis 89 Mussaenda spp. 45
Croton sp. 90
Cuphea hyssopifolia 92 N
Cycas revoluta 71 Nephrolepis exaltata ‘bostoniensis’ 143
Cynometra ramiflora 35 Nerium oleander 99
Cyrtostachys renda 72
O
D Ophiopogon jaburan ‘Vittatus’ 150
Dillenia philippinensis 36
Dischidia oiantha 138 P
Dracaena reflexa ‘Song of Jamaica’ 93 Pachystachys lutea 105
Paspalum conjugatum 151
Philodendron hederaceum ‘micans’ 133
Phoenix dactylifera 76
166
Phyllostachys vivax ‘Aureocaulis’ 65
Pilea cadierei 144
Pilea nummulariifolia 145
Pinus kesiya 47
Pithecellobium dulce (variegated) 106
Pittosporum pentandrum 48
Plumbago auriculat 107
Polyalthia longifolia 49
Polycias balfourniana Marginata 108
Pongamia pinnata 50
Ptychosperma macarthurii 77
Q
Quisqualis indica 135
R
Raphis excelsa 78
Ravenia spectabilis 100
Roystonea regia 79
Ruellia simplex 146
S
Samanea saman 51
Saraca indica 52
Saribus merrillii 80
Schefflera arboricola 110
Schefflera arboricola ‘variegata’ 111
Senna spectabilis 53
Spathodea campanulata 161
Sphagneticola trillobata 160
Strongylodon macrobotrys 134
Syzygium spp. 112
T
Tabebuia heterophylla 54
Tabernaemontana divaricata 114
Tamarindus indica 55
Thespesia populnea 56
Thevetia peruviana 162
Thyrsostachys siamensis 66
Tradescantia zebrina 163
W
Wodyetia bifurcataa 81
Wrightia antidysenterica 115
Wrightia religiosa 116
X
Xanthostemon chrysanthus 57
Xanthostemon verdugonianus 58
Y
Yucca aloifolia 59
Z
Zephyranthes robusta 147
167
INDEX OF COMMON NAME
A Forget Me Not 107
Acacia 153 Foxtail Palm 81
Adelfa 99 Frog Grass 149
African Oil Palm 73 Fukien Tea 85
African Tulip 161
Agave 118 G
Alocasia 119 Golden Crinum Lily 124
Aluminum Plant 144 Golden Penda 57
Anahaw 80 Golden Shrimp Plant 105
Antsoan Dilao 53 Golden Tea Tree 43
Araucaria 24 Green Stripe Vivax 65
Aunasin 25 Gumamela 97
B H
Bagawak Morado 33 Handkerchief Tree 35
Bagras 37 Hearth of Jesus 157
Balai-lamok 34 Heliconia 125
Balete 158 Hibiscus spp. 97
Banalo 56 Hiroshima Bamboo 64
Bani 50
Balitbitan 35 I
Baston de San Jose 86 Iloilo 108
Benguet Pine 47 Impatiens 127
Bird’s Nest Fern 137 Indian Tree 49
Bismarckia Palm 69
Bitaog 30 J
Boston Fern 143 Jade Vine 134
Botong 27 Jatropha 103
Bottle brush tree 29
Bougainvillea 154 K
Kalingag 32
C Kamuning 104
Calathea 121 Kapa-kapa 139
Calliandra 83 Katmon 36
Callisia 142
Callistemon 29 L
Canna Lily 122 Lady Palm 78
Carabao Grass 151 Licuala 75
Champagne Palm 74
Chinese Croton 95 M
Corazon de Maria 154 Malibago 39
Coronitas 159 Malubago 39
Creeping Charlie 145 Mamalis 48
Crossandra 89 Manaog Ka Irog 138
Cuban Cigar 121 Mankono 58
Cuphea 92 Manila Palm 68
McArthur’s Palm 77
D Mexican Petunia 146
Date Palm 76 Mindanao Gum 37
Dita 23 Musical Note Plant 88
Dragon’s Tail 131 Mussaenda 45
Dwarf Pandakaki 114
Dwarf Umbrella plant 110 N
Napoleon’s Plume 28
E Neem tree 26
Eugenia 112 New Guinea Creeper 132
Niyog-niyogan 135
F Norfolk Island Pine 24
Ficus heteropoda 39
Firecracker Flower 89 O
First Love 57 Oliva 71
Fishtail Palm 70
168
P W
Pakpak-Lauin 137 Wandering Jew 1163
Palo Maria 30 Water Jasmine 116
Papua 108 Wedelia 160
Peacock Flower 155 White Angel 115
Perigrina 103 White Lily Turf 150
Periwinkle 87
Philippine ‘Starburst Shrub’ 33 Y
Philodendron ‘Micans’ 133 Yellow 155
Picarra 94, 95 Yellow Caballero 155
Pink Rain Lily 147 Ylang-ylang 31
Pink Trumpet Tree 54 Yucca 59
Pole bamboo 66
Portia Tree 56
Pothos 129
R
Rainbow Tree 37
Rain Tree 51
Rangoon Creeper 132
Raphis 78
Ravenia 100
Red Banaba 42
Red Bird of Paradise 157
Red Caballero 157
Red Cascade 29
Red Creepers 141
Red Ginger 120
Red Ginger Button 123
Red Palm 72
Revolution Gold 43
Royal Palm 79
Ruellia 146
S
Salingbobog 34
Sampaguita 102
Sampaloc 55
Sampaguitang Gubat 101
San Francisco 90
Saraca 52
Scarlet Jade Vine 132
Sea Hibiscus 39
Shower of Gold 96
Shuimei 116
Silverstripe bamboo 62
Song of Jamaica 93
Spider Lily 126
T
Tabebuia 54
Tayabak 134
Thai bamboo 61
Ti Plant 86
Tibatib 131
Thevetia 162
Tsaang Gubat 85
Tsampakang Puti 44
V
Variegated Camachile 106
Variegated Chinese Bamboo 63
Variegated Schefflera 110
Variegated weeping fig 38
169
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Philippine Guidebook

on Plant Species Suitable for Urban Greening

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a

Tel. No.: (632) 8927-4788

This publication would not have been possible without the

Content Contributors: Lorenz G. Palec

Editor: Maria Niña M. Cuasay

Graphic Artist: Jim Mark S. Lejano

Photo Contributors: Lou Reginald B. Alcantara

As urban planners, engineers, architects, and environmentalists found Urban

The Philippine Guidebook on Plant Species Suitable for Urban Greening

TIRSO P. PARIAN, JR., CESO IV

1. Barangays with a population size of 5,000 or more;

One problem that can be seen in species

Caliraya Lake, Cavinti, Laguna

Lastly, our greenspace is now dominated by exotic species because of the

Greenspaces are constructed and operated to serve various environmental,

1. The establishment of vegetation leads to the introduction and improvement of

Practical and Aesthetic Benefits:

1. DESIGN INTENT AND FUNCTIONS

Remarks Remarks Standard*

Visual Remarks Standard*

Color As per design

Form / Architecture Common tree forms: Vase,

VASE COLUMNAR ROUND WEEPING PYRAMIDAL

Size Upright compact plants or

UPRIGHT, COMPACT ROUNDED, COMPACT

Texture Coarse, Medium, Fine

Flowering or A. Hard fruit, soft fruit

Foliage change Evergreen or deciduous Depends on the effect to achieve

Character Remarks Standard*

2. EXISTING PLANTING SITE CONDITIONS

Compatibility Remarks Standard*

• Horizontal clearances Setback from infrastructure Available space requirement for

Root-to-shoot ratio Setback from infrastructure and

Soil Soil type or quality

Soil structure Low, Moderate, and High

PH of soil Low, Moderate, and High

Pruning Frequency Light, moderate, or heavy? Trees incompatible with

Irrigation method Shallow or deep? For root management

Tolerance Remarks Standard*

Light intensity Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high

Waterlogging Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high

Pest and diseases Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high

Wind resistance Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high

Roadside Pollution Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high

Drought Low, Moderate, and High Moderate to high

*Further site-specific requirements needed

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDEBOOK

A botanical guidebook is usually structured by grouping plants based on their

Common Names: Dita

A native tree to the Philippines, the Dita is an

One particular characteristic of the Dita tree is its

In the urban setting, this tree tower along with

Common Names: Araucaria, or

A Gymnosperm, or a non-flowering tree, the

This tree produces cones and the leaves can be