Salibangon, scientifically known as Pollia secundiflora (Blume) Bakh.f., is a native plant of tropical and subtropical Asia, including New Caledonia. It belongs to the dayflower family, Commelinaceae.
This plant is a perennial herb. It an has upright stems and is typically found in undisturbed, natural forests at low to medium elevations. At the Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG), you can often see it growing on the forest floor of lowland forest areas.
The leaves of Salibangon are long and narrow (lanceolate), with slightly wavy edges and a smooth, hairless surface. They are attached to the stem with short leaf stalks (petioles). At the very tip of the plant, small white flowers bloom in clusters (panicles). After flowering, it produces round, berry-like fruits that turn bluish-black when ripe. Inside each fruit are many tiny seeds.
Come and discover the hidden gems of our forest and experience the beauty of Salibangon up close! Come and visit the Makiling Botanic Gardens!
For more information, you may view this video link: Salibangon
By: AALimpiada and ACMalayba