Botanical Description
Tagpo (Ardisia elliptica) also known as the Shoebutton Ardisia is a small tree no more than 8 meters tall at maximum. Its leaves are arranged in an alternating or spiralling phyllotaxy, the individual leaves are simple and coriaceous with an oblanceolate to an elliptic-lanceolate shape. Florets borne on racemes, florets a distinct pink color with a waxy appearance. The flowers eventually develop into a drupe that initially appears a pale green but as it ripens changes colors into pink, red, purple, and finally black once ripe.
Uses:
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The fruit is edible and is typically used in local cuisines as a seasoning.
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The leaves both mature and as shoots are eaten as vegetables, they are also used in folk medicine as wound dressing.
