Baccaurea motleyana

Baccaurea 木奶果属 Chi Dâu da in Hue-Vietnam DSCF0547b

Baccaurea motleyana is a species of fruit tree in the family Phyllanthaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. The tree is commonly known as rambai in Malaysia and rambi in Indonesia.

Description

Baccaurea motleyana is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 25 meters in height. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong with a glossy surface. The tree produces small, round fruits that grow in clusters. The fruits are yellowish to reddish when ripe and have a sweet and tangy flavor. Each fruit contains several seeds surrounded by a translucent, juicy pulp.

Habitat

This species thrives in tropical climates and is typically found in lowland rainforests. It prefers well-drained soils and can often be found near riverbanks and in secondary forests.

Cultivation and Uses

Baccaurea motleyana is cultivated for its edible fruits, which are consumed fresh or used in various culinary dishes. The tree is also grown for its ornamental value due to its attractive foliage and fruit clusters. In traditional medicine, different parts of the tree are used to treat various ailments.

Related Species

Baccaurea motleyana is closely related to other species in the genus Baccaurea, such as Baccaurea macrocarpa and Baccaurea dulcis.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Baccaurea motleyana has not been extensively studied, but habitat loss due to deforestation poses a potential threat to its natural populations.

See Also

• Phyllanthaceae
• Baccaurea
• Tropical fruit
• Rainforest