Macaranga grandifolia, Macaranga longifolia, Macaranga mappa

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Macaranga grandifolia is a spectacular plant with tree-like habit and large, 1-2 ft wide, showy leaves. They feel tough in touch and resemble in shape nasturtium leaves. It is Philippines endemic and has been widely cultivated in Hawaii as a tropical ornamental. This plant has become very popular garden ornamental in many parts of the tropics for the extraordinary grandiose leaves, which are rounded-ovate in shape, with prominent, reddish veins and the stem attached towards the center of the leaf blade. The flowers are pinkish red and the males are held in coral-like, congested inflorescences. The leaf ash was eaten as a cure for enlarged bellies. Twine was made from the bark and the wood was used for fishing spears. The leaves were used to wrap food. Birds eat the ripe fruit. Separate male and female trees.

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Related species with slightly smaller leaves --Macaranga tanarius

Similar plants:

• Macaranga sp. (Macaranga, Nasturtium Tree, Parasol Leaf Tree)
• Macaranga tanarius (Parasol Leaf Tree)