Ipil ipil
 | Small
to medium-sized tree with doubly compound leaves to 25 cm long. Flowers
are white, in round clusters. Pods are numerous, flat and shiny brown. A native of tropical America, it is now thoroughly
naturalized thoughout the tropics including the
Philippines. Usually a bush or small tree up to 6 m high, giant
strains to 15 m and more have been introduced from Hawaii in the 1970s.
It is extensively planted in the country as a reforestation species to
control soil erosion. Highly resistant to high temperature, shade,
drought, salinity, pests and disease. Many ipil ipil trees grow in vacant lots in Alabang Hills, including some of the giant variety.  |
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