Mahkota Dewa (Seedling) Fruit Plant

Mahkota Dewa (Phaleria macrocarpa) is a flowering plant species in the Thymelaeaceae family. It is a dense evergreen tree native to Indonesia and is also found in tropical regions of New Guinea at elevations up to 1,200 meters (3,900 ft) above sea level.

Often called the “Tree of the Gods,” Mahkota Dewa typically grows to 3 meters or more in height and has thick green foliage. The fruits grow singly or in clusters along the stem. They are green when unripe and gradually turn red as they mature. The fruits are small to medium-sized, oblong in shape, and about 3–5 cm in diameter. Inside, the flesh is white, fibrous, and watery, containing one to two brown seeds that are toxic when raw. For this reason, the fruit should never be consumed fresh and is only used after proper processing, where it develops a mildly sweet taste.

The flowers appear in small clusters of two to four and range in color from green to maroon.

Cultivation & Care

Mahkota Dewa can be grown in pots, but it performs better when planted directly in the ground. It prefers well-draining soil composed of equal parts soil, compost, and sand. The plant requires consistent watering, especially during its early growth and flowering stages, to establish healthy development.

Mahkota Dewa Benefits & Traditional Uses

Mahkota Dewa is widely recognized in traditional medicine systems, including Chinese herbal practices, for its anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, and anti-bacterial properties.

It is traditionally used to help manage symptoms of various health conditions and remains popular in alternative medicine. The fruit contains bioactive compounds such as antihistamines, polyphenols, saponins, and alkaloids, which are associated with its medicinal applications.