Common Pulai
About the Common Pulai in Singapore
Last updated 31 May 2026
The Common Pulai (Alstonia angustiloba) is a towering native tree commonly found in Singapore's secondary forests and planted in parks.
Identifying features
Check out some identifying features of the Common Pulai!
.jpg)
The Common Pulai features a highly distinct "pagoda" shape, where its branches grow outward in separated, neat, horizontal tiers along the trunk. When observing a mature tree up close, look down to point out the deeply fluted base of its trunk, which gives it a beautifully textured, flared appearance. If you look closely at the foliage, you will notice that the leaves are arranged in perfect, neat circles (whorls) clustered tightly around the branches.
Habitat and ecology
These tall trees produce long pods. When the pods split, they release hundreds of tiny seeds equipped with tufts of hair, allowing them to be dispersed over huge distances by the wind.
Did you know?
If you break a leaf or snap a twig of the Common Pulai, it will immediately bleed a sticky, milky-white sap (latex)! This is a common defensive trait of the Apocynaceae family to deter insects from eating them.
Learn more about the Common Pulai!
Curious about the Common Pulai? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
