Lansium parasiticum

Lansium parasiticum

File:Lansium parasiticum.jpg

Lansium parasiticum fruit

Lansium parasiticum, commonly known as langsat, is a species of tree in the Mahogany family (Meliaceae). It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. The tree is cultivated for its edible fruit, which is also called langsat.

Description

Lansium parasiticum is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 30 meters in height. The leaves are pinnate, with 5-7 leaflets that are glossy and dark green. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, growing in clusters. The fruit is oval to round, with a thin, yellowish-brown skin that is easy to peel. The flesh is translucent, juicy, and sweet, with a slightly acidic taste. Each fruit contains 1-3 seeds that are bitter and inedible.

Cultivation

Langsat trees thrive in tropical climates with high humidity and well-drained soil. They require a lot of sunlight and regular watering. The trees are usually propagated by seeds, but can also be grown from cuttings or grafting. It takes about 10-15 years for a langsat tree to start bearing fruit.

Uses

The fruit of Lansium parasiticum is consumed fresh and is also used in various culinary dishes. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, and is known for its antioxidant properties. The seeds, bark, and leaves of the tree have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Related Species

Lansium parasiticum is closely related to Lansium domesticum, another species in the Meliaceae family. Both species are often confused due to their similar appearance and overlapping common names.

Related Pages

• Meliaceae
• Tropical fruit
• Traditional medicine
• Southeast Asia