Baccaurea edulis
Merr.
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President and Fellows of Harvard College
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President and Fellows of Harvard College
Description
A small tree. It grows 24 m tall. The leaves are grouped at the ends of twigs. They are alternate and simple. They are slightly hairy underneath. The flowers are about 1.3 mm across. They are yellow-cream. The fruit are about 3 cm long. They are yellowish brown. They grow in the trunks. The seeds have a white to yellow layer or aril.
Edible Uses
The fruit is edible. A sweet to sour flavour. The globose berries are 5 - 6cm in diameter and are produced in small clusters of up to 25 fruits.
Medicinal Uses
We have no specific information on this species, but the bark of several members of this genus is used to relieve eye inflammation.
Distribution
It is a tropical plant. It grows up to 700 m above sea level.
Where It Grows
Asia, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sarawak, SE Asia,
Cultivation
A plant of the hot, lowland tropics. Found on light soils in its native habitats. A dioecious species, both male and female forms need to be grown if fruit and seed are required.
Propagation
Seed - when sown fresh it usually germinates in a few days.
Other Uses
We have no specific information for this species, but the bark of several members of this genus is used, along with other ingredients, as a dyestuff to colour silk yellow, red or mauve, using the dyeing process known as 'pekan' in Malay. Although we have no specific information for this species, most members of this genus produce an excellent timber, which can be used to build houses and boats and to make furniture. In common with other trees that produce their flowers and fruits on the trunk of the tree, members of this genus are generally considered to be good support trees for the climbing rattan palms, which are grown to provide material for basket making, weaving into furniture, making ropes etc.
Also Known As
Apor-apor, Kapul, Kapul putih, Kulibon, Pasin, Pendal nyumbo, Puak, Pugi, Tampoi
References (3)
- Chai, P. P. K. (Ed), et al, 2000, A checklist of Flora, Fauna, Food and Medicinal Plants. Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary, Sarawak. Forestry Malaysia & ITTO. p 167
- Ferns, Useful Tropical Plants
- Slik, F., www.asianplant.net
