TROPICAL PLANT ENCYCLOPEDIA

Excoecaria agallocha, Thillai, Milky Mangrove. Male flowers
Male flowers

Excoecaria agallocha

Thillai, Milky Mangrove
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Origin: South India to Southern Japan, Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands
Small tree 10-20 ftFull sunRegular waterUnusual colorPoisonous or toxicPlant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsDeciduous plantEthnomedical plant.
Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles.
Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Irritating plantFlood tolerant plant

Excoecaria agallocha (Thillai), a small tree native to South India to Southern Japan, Southeast Asia, and Pacific Islands, grows 10-20 ft in height. It is a deciduous plant and requires full sun and regular watering. It is an ethnomedical plant and its wood has various medicinal uses. It can be grown in USDA zones 9-11 and is tolerant of short-term flooding. It is very attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, but can be poisonous or toxic if touched or ingested.

The tree is quite unusual in having male and female flowers on separate plants, and produces yellow tassels of male flowers that are very scented. Female flowers consist of shorter spikes. Contact with the skin can cause irritation and rapid blistering, while contact with the eyes can result in temporary blindness.

When it comes to growing and caring for Excoecaria agallocha, the tree prefers well-drained, moist soil and full sun. Regular watering and fertilizing throughout the year is recommended for optimal growth, though it should be noted that due to its deciduous nature, it will lose its leaves in autumn and winter. In colder regions, it can be grown in a large pot and brought inside during winter. When potted, it will need more frequent watering, less direct sunlight, and protection from extreme temperatures. With the right care, this small tree can become a showstopper in any garden.


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Excoecaria agallocha, Thillai, Milky Mangrove


Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/excoecaria_agallocha.htm