Common Name:

General Information

Macaranga similis is an evergreen tree; it usually grows from 5 - 10 metres tall[].
The tree is sometimes harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine and source of wood. It is an important local source of fuelwood, the wood is commonly sold for fuel in local markets[]. The tree has potential for use as a pioneer species when restoring native woodland or when establishing a woodland garden.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

Australasia - New Guinea to the Solomon and Santa Cruz Islands.

Habitat

Open, secondary forest formations in lowland areas, ascending to 500 metres[, ].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	8.00 m
Self-fertile	No
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

A dioecious species, both male and female forms need to be grown if fruit and seed are required[].

Edible Uses

The leaves are used for wrapping food before cooking[].

Medicinal

The leaves are used medicinally for a range of maladies and to induce abortions[].

Agroforestry Uses:

Commonly foud in open areas and secondary forest, this species is one of the main pioneer species in abandoned garden areas within its native range[]. It has potential for use as a pioneer species when restoring native woodland or when establishing a woodland garden[].

Other Uses

The leaves are used to seal earthen ovens, to parcel seafood to keep it fresh, and to parcel food before cooking[].

The wood is soft. It is used in light construction for rafters, walling frames, flooring and battens; for wood carving; banana cases, and other purposes[].
Because it is readily available, the wood is a major local source of firewood[].

Propagation

Seed -

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