Macaranga tanarius

Species name: Macaranga tanarius (L.) Müll.Arg.

International name: Parasol Leaf Tree

Description

Macaranga tanarius —most commonly known as the Parasol Leaf Tree or Nasturtium Tree. If you live in or have traveled through tropical Southeast Asia, northern Australia, or the Pacific islands, you have almost certainly seen this plant. It is the ultimate pioneer tree, meaning it rushes into open, sunlit spaces like cleared forests, roadsides, and riverbanks to quickly heal the landscape. What makes it stand Out? Its most defining feature is its giant, heart-shaped leaves, which can grow up to 30 cm wide. Take a closer look at where the leaf stem (petiole) meets the leaf: instead of attaching at the edge like most plants, it hooks right into the center of the underside. This gives the leaves a distinct, shield- or umbrella-like appearance, mathematically known as a peltate leaf shape.

This tree grows exceptionally fast, reaching up to 10–15 meters tall. Because it creates a dense umbrella of giant leaves very quickly, gardeners and conservationists love using it as a temporary nurse canopy to shield delicate, slow-growing rainforest plants from the harsh sun. It is a rapid shade-maker. 

Beyond just looking tropical and lush, Macaranga tanarius is highly useful. Indigenous groups traditionally used its tough, fibrous inner bark to weave twine and skirts, while the large leaves were perfect for wrapping and cooking food. It also has a fascinating relationship with wildlife. Honeybees frequently visit the sticky, resinous coating on its fruits and leaves. In places like Taiwan and Okinawa, this specific resin is collected by bees to create a highly valued, antibacterial type of green propolis (a medicinal bee glue).