Cynometra psilogyne (synonym Maniltoa psilogyne) is a rainforest tree native to New Guinea, belonging to the family Fabaceae. Its young once-pinnate leaves are pure white and hang down limply at first. They grow to a length of in as many hours.Encyclopaedia of Papua New Guinea - Volume 2, Melbourne: University of Papua New Guinea p. 1128 These white leaves are why it is commonly called the handkerchief tree. After about three days the leaves become erect and green.
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