Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas)

Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas) yellow flower clusters and smooth green leaves close up
Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas) yellow flower clusters emerging amidst smooth rounded green leaves on branch

Botanical name: Premna obtusifolia

Common names: Buas buas, Headache Tree

Family: Lamiaceae    (Formerly:Verbenaceae)

Origin: Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

USDA Zone: 9-11

Plant type: Fruit or edible
Fruit type: Fruit or edible
Large shrub 5-10 ft tallSmall tree 10-20 ftPlant used for bonsaiPlant form: Large bush or small tree; suitable for bonsai
Plant mature sizeMature height: 10-20 ft
Full sunSemi-shadeSun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold toleranceCold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Regular. Let topsoil dry slightlyWatering: Regular
Suitable forSuitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Ethnomedical 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.Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicine

Premna obtusifolia, native to Southeast Asia and Pacific Islands is a small tree or large shrub that can reach heights of 5 to 10 feet for a shrub or 10 to 20 feet for a small tree. It is an ethnomedical plant that has many culinary and medicinal uses. The leaves, bark, and fruit of Premna obtusifolia can be used for various treatments, including stomach aches, coughs, eye problems, and skin diseases. It can also be used for bonsai.

This plant prefers full sun, but can tolerate some semi-shade. It needs regular watering and dries easily. It is salt tolerant and can be grown near the seaside. Mature plants of Premna obtusifolia can survive cold climates up to 30s F for a short time. It grows best in USDA Zones 9-11.

The fruits of Premna obtusifolia are edible and have many health benefits. The fruit contains many nutrients, including Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. It can be eaten raw or used to make jams, jellies, and sauces. Each tree can produce up to 600 fruits annually.

Similar plants: Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas)


Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas) green leaves with small white flower clusters in close up.
Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas) displaying delicate white flower clusters nestled among smooth green oval leaves.
Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas) green fruit close up with broad leaves and tiny flowers
Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas) with clusters of green fruit and small round leaves in focus.
Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas) green fruit close up with some purple berries on branches.
Premna obtusifolia (Buas buas) cluster of green fruit on woody stems with smooth wide leaves.


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