Leea angulata Korth. ex Miq.
| Etymology | Genus | After James Lee, 18th century English nurseryman |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Angular; probably referring to the triangular prickes on the stem. | |
| Family | Vitaceae | |
| Synonyms | - | |
| Common Names | Prickly Leea | |
| Status | Native: Critically Endangered | |
| Form | Tree or Shrub | |
| Native Distribution | Andaman Islands, Thailand, Malesia | |
Diagnostics:
This is a critically endangered small tree or shrub that is only found in a few localities in Singapore, including Temenggong Road and Lower Seletar Reservoir (Lok et la., 2011; Yeoh & Kwok, 2016). It is most easily identifiable from its stem, which is covered with sharp prickles. Slit roots may be occasionally present, especially in mature individuals.
Interesting Facts:
This discovery of about four adult individuals along Dairy Farm Loop represents a new location of its wild presence. However, this area used to be an ex-plantation or kampung, and could be planted by villagers of the past because of its medicinal properties.
Along Dairy Farm Loop.
Slit roots.
Prickly trunk.
Compound leaf.
References
Lok, A. F. S. L., Ang, W. F., Ng, B. Y. Q., Suen, S. M., Yeo, C. K., & Tan, H. T. W. (2011). Leea L. (Vitaceae) of Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 4, 55–71. National University of Singapore.
Yeoh, Y. S., & Kwok, J. T. H. (2016). Leea angulata at Seletar Country Club: New locality record for Singapore. Singapore Biodiversity Records, 2016, 112. National University of Singapore.
Author: Siyang
Posted: 2025-10-19