Bayag-usa [Voacanga globosa (Blanco) Merr.] is a small tree endemic to the Philippines and a proud member of the Apocynaceae family. This tree grows up to about 3 meters tall with wide-spreading branches. It thrives in secondary forests and thickets at lower elevations. Its leaves are simple, arranged oppositely, with dark green surfaces on top and lighter green undersides.
It is loved for its eye-catching whitish-cream flowers that bloom at the tips of its branches. Its fruits usually come in pairs. Often round, green to brown with spots and are packed with seeds wrapped in bright orange pulp.
Beyond its beauty, Bayag-usa plays an important role in traditional medicine. Its leaves are used to help with fever, body pains, ulcers, wounds, and tumors. Heated leaves are even applied to relieve pasma, while a decoction from the plant is used for hernia and cancer. The fruits, meanwhile, are used as an antidote for food poisoning and even to stupefy eels.
With its ornamental flowers, unique fruits, and healing properties, Bayag-usa is truly a hidden treasure of our forests.
Come and discover the wonders of Bayag-usa and many more native species at the Makiling Botanic Gardens!
For more information, you may view this video link: Bayag-usa
By: AALimpiada and ACMalayba