The Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) Plant of the Month (POM) for January 2025 is Alas-As, scientifically known as Pandanus luzonensis Merr. from the family Pandanaceae. The Alas-As tree is a unique tree found only in the Philippines. It is a slender, solitary tree with a few short prop roots and several branches. Its bark is grayish, slightly thorny, and about 10 cm thick. The tree produces clusters of round fruits that start green and turn yellowish-red as they ripen, each with distinct ridged, pyramid-like tips. Its leaves are long, narrow, and green, with serrated or spiky edges.
The Alas-As tree has many practical uses. Its leaves are woven into baskets and mats. Fresh or dried prop roots are used as a natural remedy to help increase urination. When pounded and mixed with Mentha arvensis leaves in water, the prop roots are used to relieve stomachaches. The Aytas also place the leaves on their foreheads to ease headaches.
For more information, you may view this video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ietNfrzqQkY
By: AALimpiada and ACMalayba