| Etymology | Genus | From Latin, berry (Bacca) and golden (aureus), referring the fruits of some species |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Small flowers | |
| Family | Phyllanthaceae | |
| Synonyms | Baccaurea affinis Müll.Arg., Baccaurea rostrata Merr., Baccaurea scortechinii Hook.f. | |
| Common Names | Setambun, Wild Rambai | |
| Status | Native: Common | |
| Form | Tree | |
| Native Distribution | Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo | |
Diagnostics:
A small tree to about 6m, Baccaurea parviflora can be commonly found in our rainforests, with quite a number of them along the paths of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. It has tier (pagoda-like) branching, with glabrous somewhat obovate (or elliptic) leaves with a distinct drip-tip.
It is immediately apparent when it flowers, with the male tree bearing inflorescences along its trunk, while the female bears the inflorescence at the base of the trunk.
Interesting Facts:
The fruits are said to be edible, serving best when cooked (Jansen et al., 1991). The wood, being hard and durable, is used for making small utensils.
A flowering tree along Bukit Timah Nature Reserve main trail.
Male inflorescences on the trunk.
Radiating branches.
Obovate leaves with distinct drip tip.
Female inflorescence at the base of the trunk.
Developing fruits.
References
Jansen PCM, Jukema J, Oyen LPA & van Lingen TG (1991) Baccaurea parviflora (Muell. Arg.) Muell. Arg.In: Verheij EWM & Coronel RE (Eds.) Plant Resources of South-East Asia No. 2: Edible fruits and nuts. Pudoc, Wageningen, The Netherlands. pp 320.Author: Siyang
Posted: 2017-06-27 / Modified: 2017-12-25