Kun-job tree (Barringtonia papuana)

Product description

The Kun-job is an unusual tropical tree from Papua New Guinea with shiny long, narrow leaves. In the tropics, the species grows along the coast and in swampy regions. Traditionally, the bark of Barringtonia species, which is rich in saponins, is used to poison fish and then catch them easily. The new leaves turn from red to green and can grow up to over a meter long. They have striking veins and grow crown-shaped at the top of the tree. The white to pink striking flowers grow directly on the trunk and bloom only at night. They are pollinated by moths and bats. The fruits that follow when ripening turn from green to turquoise-blue and are not edible. The seeds float, making them easily dispersed through the sea in nature.

The species can grow up to 10 metres tall, but as a houseplant it will stay a lot smaller. Provide well-drained soil and a slightly sunny spot. Water regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Sowing description: The already germinated seed can be sown immediately in seed and cutting soil. Provide a slightly sunny spot with a temperature of 20 to 25 degrees. Keep the soil slightly moist.

Photo's: Understorey, Singapore, Gardens by the Bay