We have forest friends that are originally from more than one country, but our friend Katmon is endemic, or only found in the Philippines!
The species above has the scientific name Dillenia philippinensis, but there are 11 Dillenia species listed in a special database of Philippine plants, “Co’s Digital Flora of the Philippines.” 10 of the 11 are found nowhere else in the world but the Philippines.
Katmon (D. philippinensis) can grow up to 17 meters tall and has beautiful flowers. Once pollinated its fruit is deliciously sour and can be eaten raw (if you’re a sour fruit lover). It is sour enough that many local chefs use it as a souring agent, and make sinigang!
Katmon is an ideal ornamental species for public parks, government offices, as well as private properties.
Did you know that native trees are better for our forests than exotic ones? They are more adapted to the tropical environment, strengthen local ecosystem services, and attract more biodiversity.
Meet more of our Forest Friends below!
More about the Forest Governance Project
Our Forest Friends awareness campaign is part of the Forest Governance Project or FOGOP. The project aims to increase local community participation in forest management and land use plans. It involves communities and forest areas in three (3) key locations: Mt. Irid-Angelo in Luzon, Mt. Siburan in Mindoro, and Mt. Hilong-hilong in Mindanao.
Learn more about FOGOP here.
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