Family: Nyctaginaceae

Native to tropical and subtropical regions, including South America, this genus comprises about 50 species of evergreen shrubs and trees. They are grown for their foliage and are mainly used as house or pot plants for the warm green-house or conservatory.

Species

P. alba is a shrub-like species known as lettuce tree in Malaysia and the Philippines. It has striking, light green foliage. Mostly grown as an ornamental, the leaves are also eaten raw or cooked. Plants range from 3 to 5 m (10-16 ft) in height.

P. umbellifera, parapara or bird catcher tree, grows from 2.5 to 10 m (8-33 ft) tall. It may be shrubby or tree-like, with shiny, oval leaves, 10-40 cm (4-16 in) long, and tiny, pink or yellow flowers with a sticky calyx, which is capable of trapping small birds. There is a variegated form, 'Variegata', which has wavy-margined leaves, tinged with pink, especially when young.

Cultivation

In the greenhouse or home, grow in pots of soil-based potting compost. Plants need good light, but shade from direct sun. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or from seed in spring, with bottom heat for both.

Climate

Tropical.