The Grand Devil's-claws plant became known in the 20th century. This plant is native to Indonesia, believed to originate from the Maluku region, but is now known throughout the archipelago, especially in Java and the eastern part of the archipelago (Nusantara).

Pisonia is a popular perennial plant with a slow but steady growth rate, only producing a few leaves per year, while its length can reach 3 to 4 cm. Despite its slow growth rate, with proper care, this plant can grace your living space with its subtle beauty for many years. Understanding its growth needs is crucial to ensure its longevity and vibrancy.

This plant prefers warmth year-round, with its ideal temperature maintained between 23−27ºC. A significant drop below this range can slow its growth considerably, especially during the winter months when the plant must be kept away from drafts and cold air blasts.

Furthermore, Pisonia thrives in high humidity conditions. Regular misting with soft water twice a day—once in the morning and again in the evening—is recommended, particularly during the winter when heating systems can dry out the air.

Lighting plays a vital role in the health of the Pisonia plant. A bright, sun-exposed location—preferably a south-facing window with at least five hours of directional light daily—is ideal. However, be careful to protect the plant from scorching direct sunlight during the middle of the day, as this can cause the leaves to yellow. Conversely, insufficient light can cause leaf drop, indicating a stressed condition.

In terms of soil, Pisonia requires fertile, well-drained soil. Adequate drainage is essential to prevent moisture accumulation that can damage the roots.

• The root of plants from the Nyctaginaceae family is typically a strong, branched taproot.

• The trunk is smooth and light in color. It can reach a height of 10 m.

• The leaves are thin, ranging from bright light green to pale yellow. Their shape is ovate (egg-shaped) with a pointed tip and a blunt base. This plant is rarely seen flowering.

• The male flowers are white or greenish-white with a length of 6 mm. The female flowers are smaller.

• The fruit is elongated, five-angled (cuboid) in shape, with a length of up to 2 cm.

• Propagation is done vegetatively (by cuttings and air layering) of young, woody branches.

The leaves of the Kol Banda tree are beneficial as a remedy for shortness of breath and jaundice. Kol Banda leaves are also used as an antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, and antidiabetic agent. It is antibacterial, capable of inhibiting the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. It cures diseases due to the high antioxidant activity in the plant. Pisonia alba leaves are used as an anti-inflammatory, anti-diuretic, and antifungal agent. Pisonia alba has strong antimicrobial activity, especially against the bacteria Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus.

The entire plant contains phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The roots and leaves of the Kol Banda contain saponins, flavonoids, and polyphenols. Additionally, the Kol Banda leaves also contain alkaloids, tannins, and steroids, glycosides, essential oils, and other active compounds, which contribute to its pharmacological effects, including its antibacterial properties.