Barringtonia asiaticaFish Poison Tree

The Barringtonia asiatica, or Fish Poison Tree, is a tropical evergreen tree admired for its large, glossy leaves, fragrant flowers, and distinctive box-like fruit. Growing up to 7–25 meters, it features broad, leathery leaves that create a dense canopy. Its spectacular night-blooming, pink-and-white pom-pom flowers emit a sweet fragrance, attracting nocturnal pollinators such as bats and moths. The tree’s fruit, buoyant and box-shaped, is adapted for dispersal by water.

Native to tropical coasts, this tree is commonly planted in coastal landscapes for its ornamental appeal and tolerance of saline and sandy soils.

Specifications:

• Height: 7–25 meters
• Width: 6–15 meters
• Native to: Coastal tropical regions of the Indian and Pacific Oceans
• Foliage: Large, glossy, leathery leaves with a deep green hue
• Growth rate: Moderate

Conditions:

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils; tolerates saline and waterlogged conditions
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Water: Moderate; tolerates occasional flooding and saline conditions
• Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical coastal regions

Additional Features:

• Flowers: Large, night-blooming, fragrant pink-and-white pom-pom blooms, often followed by fallen petals creating a floral carpet
• Fruit: Box-shaped, buoyant fruit containing seeds traditionally used as fish poison in some cultures
• Uses: Ideal for ornamental planting, shade, and coastal landscaping
• Spacing: Plant 8–12 meters apart for individual growth or grouped plantings
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning; adaptable to harsh coastal conditions
• Environmental Benefits: Stabilizes sandy soils, provides habitat for wildlife, and supports nocturnal pollinators
• Cultural Significance: Historically used in traditional practices for its seeds’ piscicidal properties

The Fish Poison Tree is an attractive and resilient choice for tropical and coastal landscapes, combining visual appeal with ecological benefits in saline and sandy environments.