Debregeasia longifolia – Orange Wild Rhea, Tontongan

Description

Debregeasia longifolia is a fast-growing shrub to small tree that typically reaches 3 to 10 meters in height. It has broad, rough-textured leaves that are green on the upper surface and softly hairy beneath. Small yellowish to orange fruits appear in clusters and are edible when ripe. Native to tropical and subtropical Asia, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to moist, well-drained soils—commonly found along forest edges, riverbanks, and disturbed areas. The plant is valued for its fiber-rich bark, which is traditionally used for rope and handmade textiles, while the foliage supports local wildlife.