Origin: America

The tree was previously thought to be another species (Cecropia peltata) until its actual identity was clarified in an article published in 2010 [1]. According to the article, this tree might have been introduced into Singapore in 1992 when the Singapore Zoo started to use this plant to feed the animals. It has large leaves that look similar to those from the Giant Mahang (Macaranga gigantea), which is a native tree. The fallen leaves would cover large area of the ground beneath the tree thus preventing seedling of other tree species from germinating. The tree was highly invasive and large colony could be found in widespread area in some part of Singapore.

Reference:

[1] Lok AFSL, Tan K, Chong KY, Nghiem TPL, Tan HTW. The distribution and ecology of Cecropia species (Urticaceae) In Singapore. Nature In Singapore 2010;3:199-209. | Read article |