Pemphis acidula, not Poresia coarctata, is the correct name for the plant species in question. Pemphis acidula, also known as the Ironwood or Bonsai Mangrove, is a species of small, evergreen shrub or tree belonging to the Lythraceae family. It is native to coastal and rocky environments in the Indian Ocean and western Pacific regions, including the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia. Pemphis acidula can tolerate high levels of salinity and is often found growing in coastal areas, particularly along rocky shorelines, tidal flats, and at the edges of mangrove forests.
Pemphis acidula typically grows up to 1-5 meters in height, with some specimens reaching up to 10 meters. The tree has a twisted and gnarled trunk with smooth, light grey bark that peels off in thin flakes. The wood of the tree is dense, heavy, and hard, with a fine grain and an attractive reddish-brown color.
The leaves of Pemphis acidula are simple, opposite, and fleshy, with a shiny, dark green upper surface and a lighter green underside. The tree produces small, fragrant, white to pale pink flowers in clusters. These flowers are bisexual and are pollinated by insects. Following pollination, the flowers develop into small, rounded, green fruits that turn brown as they mature. Each fruit contains a single seed that is dispersed by water.
Pemphis acidula plays a vital role in the coastal ecosystem, providing habitat and food for various species of birds, fish, and other wildlife. The tree’s extensive root system helps to prevent soil erosion and stabilize shorelines.
The wood of Pemphis acidula is highly valued for its strength, durability, and resistance to termites, making it suitable for various purposes such as construction, boat building, and the production of charcoal. The tree is also popular among bonsai enthusiasts for its twisted and gnarled appearance, which makes it an attractive ornamental plant. However, the increasing demand for its wood and habitat loss due to deforestation, aquaculture expansion, and climate change has led to a decline in Pemphis acidula populations. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect this unique tree and the vital ecosystems it supports.