Dracontomelon

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Dracontomelon

Dracontomelon is a genus of tropical trees in the family Anacardiaceae. The genus is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. The most well-known species is Dracontomelon dao, commonly known as the Pacific Walnut or New Guinea Walnut.

Description

The Dracontomelon trees are large, reaching up to 45 meters in height. They have a broad canopy and a straight trunk. The leaves are pinnate, with 5-11 leaflets. The flowers are small and greenish, arranged in panicles. The fruit is a drupe, with a fleshy outer layer and a hard inner shell.

Distribution and Habitat

Dracontomelon trees are found in a variety of habitats, from lowland rainforests to montane forests. They are native to Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia, and also in the Pacific Islands.

Uses

The wood of Dracontomelon trees is used for construction and furniture making. The fruit is edible and is used in various culinary preparations in Southeast Asia. In traditional medicine, various parts of the tree are used to treat different ailments.

Conservation

Some species of Dracontomelon are threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation. Conservation efforts are needed to protect these valuable trees.

See Also

• Anacardiaceae
• Tropical Rainforest
• Traditional Medicine