Katmon (Dillenia philippinensis)

Once again we had to put in great efforts to identify this stunning white flower with a beautiful scarlet center as Dillenia philippinensis Rolfe 1884. Dillenia philippinensis, commonly called Katmon, Philippines Simpoh or Philippine Dillenia is a tropical, flowering tree or big shrub, which can reach heights up to about 15 meters.

Dillenia philippinensis is native to the Philippines, but it’s hardly surprising, that it became a very well-liked ornamental plant in tropical countries around the world. The genus Dillenia, with about 65 known species, belongs to the Dilleniaceae family and has been introduced by the father of modern taxonomy, the Swedish naturalist Carl von Linné (1707-1778). The Great Linnaeus, how he`s often called, named the genus in honour to the German physician and botanist Johann Jacob Dillen (1687-1747). Flowers of the Katmon tree (Dillenia philippinensis) get a size of about 15 cm across and are non-fragrant. Katmon fruits are edible, the taste is reminescent of a sour apple and are used in our home country Thailand as an ingredient for the sour Jungle Curry (Gaeng Som).

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Katmon (Dillenia philippinensis)

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