How2Day: Morinda Plants

Morinda plants are common throughout the tropics. Don Smith/Photodisc/Getty Images
The Morinda citrifolia is an evergreen and perennial shrub or tree that is also commonly known by the names of Indian mulberry, noni, great morinda, dog dumpling, pace, mengkudu, cheese fruit and beach mulberry. The Morinda citrifolia is a member of the Rubiaceae (coffee) family, and originated in southeastern Asia and Polynesia.

The Morinda citrifolia can achieve heights of up to 20 feet. The Morinda citrifolia features tubular white flowers, with five lobes that have sharp tips. The plant bears fruit from yellowish-white to translucent white. The glossy green foliage can be up to one1 foot long, with oblong to rounded shapes. The leaves are simple and have many veins. All of the branches are tetragonal, with four angles.

The Morinda citrifolia is commonly referred to as the "canoe plant"---because the ancient Polynesians initially transferred the fruits of the plant to Hawaii via canoes. The fruits were brought to Hawaii for medicinal purposes, and also to serve as food in the case of possible famine. The plant's root was also used for the production of yellow dye, while red dye was created out of the bark.

The fruit of the Morinda citrifolia is known as "noni fruit," which is edible but has a markedly foul odor. However, noni fruit is a common component in many dietary and nutritional supplements and beverages, as it is often believed to be rich in antioxidants. It is also believed to help treat afflictions and illnesses including diabetes, asthma, depression, insomnia, hypertension, headaches, arthritis, allergies, addiction, menstrual cramps, irregular heartbeat, common colds and atherosclerosis.

The Morinda citrifolia often grows on sandy shores, rocky and rugged shores and within shady forests. The Morinda citrifolia can tolerate secondary soil, drought and soil with high salt levels. As a result of its tolerance, the plant is often found on volcanic terrain and limestone outcrops.

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