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Filipino Akapulko

By Dr. Peter T. Dixon D.B.S.

Introduction

The attractive shrub is named for its flower buds which grow in a column and look like fat yellow candles each complete with a flame! The leaves fold together at night. It is found on the slopes of Mt. Banahaw in the Philippines. It has been taken around the world and cultivated to attract butterflies and medicinal values. It is the food plant of some butterflies. The plant recruits ant bodyguards against these caterpillars. It has "extra floral nectarines" near the base of the leaves that produce sweet nectar to attract ants.

Leaves or sap are used to treat fungal infections such as ringworm. They contain a fungicide, chrysophanic acid. Because of its anti-fungal properties, it is a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos and lotions in the Philippines. The effectiveness of this plant against skin diseases is confirmed by modern scientific studies.

Other chemicals contained in the plant include saponin which acts as a laxative and expels intestinal parasites. In Africa, the boiled leaves are used to treat high-blood pressure. In South America, besides skin diseases, it is also used to treat a wide range of ailments from stomach problems, fever, asthma to snake bite and venereal diseases (syphilis, gonorrhea).

Akapulko is a shrub that grows wild on Mt. Banahaw. The leaves contain chrysophanic acid. The leaves are reported to be sudorific, diuretic and purgative, being used in the same manner as senna. The leaves are commonly used for ringworm and other skin diseases. The leaves in decoction are also used to treat bronchitis and asthma. Because of its anti-fungal properties, it is a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos, and lotions in the Philippines. The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) has helped develop the technology for an Akapulko lotion.

General Information

Common name(s): Akapulko
USDA hardiness zones: 9 through 11 (But can be grown in all areas as a potted plant)
Origin: Native to Philippines
Uses: specimen; container or planter; trained as a standard; deck or patio; highway median
Availability: not native to North America

Description

The Akapulko Bush in ideal conditions can grow to 25 Feet; however most of the time will only reach a height of 10-15 feet and a spread of 10-15 feet. It contains an irregular Crown with an oval shape. The crown has an open density. It is a fast growing tree/bush with a coarse leaf.

The leaf has an even-pinnately compound. The shape is oblong and venation is pinnate. It is considered to be an evergreen. Each leaf blade is 2 � 4 inches. There are no color changes for fall

It is known for its very showy yellow flower that lasts months and is ever blooming. It seems to attract butterflies from everywhere of all shapes and sizes.

The trunk and branches are upright, do not droop, however they are not particularly showing. Akapulko has a multi branches trunk.

Akapulko requires full/part sun. It tolerates clay, sand, loam, slightly alkaline or acidic souls as long as it is well drained. It will develop root rot if left in soggy soil. It almost prefers dry soil conditions. Roots do not seem to have any issues other then root rot for damp areas. It is not considered to be severely invasive; however it will have seed pods that will have many seeds, if left on plant can seed the area with new plants. High viability of seeds. Pinching new growth increases branching, creating a fuller canopy which produces more flowers. Akapulko produces the nicest flower display next year when it is pruned back hard in the spring. It makes a beautiful accent in a shrub border or planted as a specimen in a ground cover. Locate it near the patio or by an entryway for a stunning fall accent plant.

Propagation is by cuttings or seed, blooming the first year from seed.