Prunus undulata
Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don
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Ian W. Fieggen (via Wikimedia Commons)
Summary
Source: WikipediaPrunus undulata, which goes by a number of common names including Chinese: 尖叶桂樱, lekh arupate and theiarlung, is a species of laurel cherry native to southeast Asia, including Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim, Bangladesh, northeastern India, Myanmar, southeastern China, Aceh in Indonesia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam. A tree reaching 16 m, prefers to grow alongside streams at 500 to 3600 m above sea level. A widespread and successful species, it has been repeatedly described, resulting in a plethora of synonyms. Of these, the specific epithet capricida refers to its legendary ability to poison goats who consume it.
Description
An evergreen shrub or small tree. It grows 12 m tall. The leaves are oblong or narrowly oval and 8-15 cm long by 3-5 cm wide. The base is wedge shaped and they taper to the tip. There can be shallow teeth along the edge. The flowers can occur singly or in groups of 2-3. The fruit are oval and fleshy. There is a stone inside 15-20 mm long by 8-12 mm wide.
Edible Uses
The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked and is quite small, measuring approximately 11mm by 16mm. The seed is also edible raw or cooked, but should not be eaten if it tastes too bitter.
Traditional Uses
CAUTION: The fruit (and seeds) contain hydrocyanic acid and should be cooked.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Medicinal Uses
Like all members of the genus, this species contains amygdalin and prunasin, which break down in water to release hydrocyanic acid (prussic acid). In small amounts, this compound stimulates respiration, aids digestion, and produces a sense of well-being.
Known Hazards
Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where most, if not all members of the genus produce hydrogen cyanide, a poison that gives almonds their characteristic flavour. This toxin is found mainly in the leaves and seed and is readily detected by its bitter taste. It is usually present in too small a quantity to do any harm but any very bitter seed or fruit should not be eaten. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.
Distribution
Temperate. It grows in broad-leaved forests near streams between 500-3,600 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 5-9.
Where It Grows
Asia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Himalayas, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Northeastern India, SE Asia, Sikkim, Vietnam,
Cultivation
Thrives in a well-drained moisture-retentive loamy soil. Prefers some lime in the soil but is likely to become chlorotic if too much lime is present. Succeeds in sun or partial shade though it fruits better when growing in a sunny position. Most members of this genus are shallow-rooted and will produce suckers if the roots are damaged. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.
Propagation
Seed requires 2–3 months of cold stratification and is best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Stored seed should be sown in a cold frame as early in the year as possible and protected from mice. Germination can be slow, sometimes taking 18 months. Prick out seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, overwinter in a greenhouse or cold frame, then plant out in late spring or early summer the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood with a heel can be taken in July/August in a frame. Softwood cuttings from vigorous plants can be taken in spring to early summer in a frame. Layering can be done in spring.
Other Uses
A green dye can be obtained from the leaves, and a dark grey to green dye from the fruit.
Notes
There are about 200 Prunus species.
Synonyms
Also Known As
Aria, Dieng-tyrkhun, Gadharu, Lali, Lekh arupate
References (4)
- Ambasta, S.P. (Ed.), 2000, The Useful Plants of India. CSIR India. p 497
- Plants for a Future, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
- Prodr. fl. nepal. 239. 1825
- Rymbai, H., et al, 2016, Analysis study on potential underutilized edible fruit genetic resources of the foothills track of Eastern Himalayas, India. Genetic. Resourc. Crop Evol. (2016) 63:125-139
