Portia Tree is commonly found on the periphery of mangroves and coastal area. It is usually planted as wind and sand barriers. Portia Tree could be mixed up with Cuban Bast easily due to similar appearances. However their differences can be told through careful observation. Though leaves of both Portia Tree and Cuban Bast are heart-shaped, Portia Tree's are less circular in shape and with obvious veins. Its leaves also have protruding apexes.