Bischofia
javanica
bih-SCHOFF-ee-uh
a-VON-ee-kuh
(B. trifoliate)
Toog
Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
Origin: Tropical Asia and Pacific Islands
©Street
Tree Division
City
of Los Angeles - Department of Public Works
Bureau of Street Services
Form - Evergreen. Slow growing to 50' in this regional environment. Rounded, densely foliated canopy though flat topped with regular ocean exposure.
Trunk -Smooth to fine textured or fibrous, gray to reddish-brown bark.
Foliage -Leaves are large, dark green to bronzy, trifoliate and alternately compound with 3 ovate, leathery leaflets. Leaflets are minutely toothed, 5" long and 4 " wide with a tail like tip.
Flowers/fruit -Small inconspicuous flowers bloom April to May without petals, develop into round reddish or blue pea-sized fruits bunched among the leaves.
No significant pest problems are known at this time.
Site suitability:
Sunset zones -23 and 24. Some frost damage at 30°.
Clearances -Suitable for 7' minimum parkways, medians or cutouts.
Good for street sides, medians, parks and lawns.
Culture considerations:
Grows well in sandy soil. Moderate drought tolerance, excellent for seacoast exposure.
Comments, notes:
Worthwhile coastal tree where a dense, spreading, shady canopy is wanted. Unique glossy leaves give tropical appearance yet is small enough to incorporate with most landscapes.