Home Page > Picture Archives > > Apocynaceae > Cerbera odollam
Cerbera dilatata, Cerbera forsteri, Cerbera lactaria, Excoecaria ovatifolia, Odollamia malabarica, Tanghinia lactaria, Tanghinia odollam
Othalanga, pong-pong, suicide tree
Cerbera odollam is a dicotyledonous angiosperm, a plant species in the Family Apocynaceae and commonly known as the suicide tree, pong-pong, and othalanga. It is a species native to India and other parts of southern Asia, growing preferentially in coastal salt swamps and in marshy areas but also grown as a hedge plant between home compounds. It yields a potent poison that has been used for suicide and murder.
Cerbera odollam, also known as the "Sea Mango", is an evergreen tree native to tropical Asia. In Qatar, it has been introduced and cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and fruits. Research in Qatar has shown that Cerbera odollam can thrive in the country's hot and arid climate, with some studies indicating its potential for urban landscaping and coastal protection. However, its toxic seeds and leaves, containing cardenolides, pose a risk to human and animal health if ingested. As an exotic species in Qatar, Cerbera odollam requires careful management to prevent invasive spread and ensure safe cultivation.
Suicide tree (Cerbera odollam) in Dahl Al Hamam Park at Al Markhiya Street. Doha, Qatar, May 30, 2016
Al Markhiya St, Doha, Qatar
Pink leaves of suicide tree (Cerbera odollam) in Dahl Al Hamam Park at Al Markhiya Street. Doha, Qatar, May 30, 2016Al Markhiya St, Doha, Qatar
Leaves of suicide tree (Cerbera odollam) in Dahl Al Hamam Park at Al Markhiya Street. Doha, Qatar, May 30, 2016Arab League St, Doha, QatarThe Cerbera odollam plant was observed in Dahl Al Hamam Park at Al Markhiya Street in Doha, Qatar on May 30, 2016. The plant displayed distinctive pink leaves, which were noted in observations. Further examination of the plant revealed its leaf structure, with the leaves being a notable feature of the Cerbera odollam species. The presence of the plant in the park suggests that it can thrive in Qatar's environment, and its unique characteristics make it a notable specimen. The observations highlight the plant's appearance and growth habits in the Qatari context, providing insight into its biology and ecology. Overall, the Cerbera odollam plant was found to be a striking and interesting species in Dahl Al Hamam Park. Its pink leaves and leaf structure were particularly noteworthy features of the plant.
www.theplantlist.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.