Yellow Alder (Turnera ulmifolia)

FamilyPassifloraceae
Scientific nameTurnera ulmifolia
Common name (English)Yellow Alder
Common name (Malay)Lidah Kuning
Identified asIntroduced plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Turnera ulmifolia, commonly known as yellow alder, sage rose, or ramgoat dashalong, is a small perennial shrub in the Passifloraceae family (formerly Turneraceae). Native to tropical regions of the Americas but now naturalized widely across the tropics, it is admired for its bright yellow, five-petaled flowers that open in the morning and close by afternoon. Hardy and fast-growing, the plant thrives in sunny, well-drained areas and is often used ornamentally for borders and pollinator gardens. Traditionally, Turnera ulmifolia has been valued in folk medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Its resilience and cheerful blooms make it both ecologically beneficial and culturally appreciated.