Terminalia ferdinandiana

Terminalia ferdinandiana 63993370

Terminalia ferdinandiana, commonly known as the Kakadu plum, gubinge, billygoat plum, or green plum, is a flowering plant in the family Combretaceae, native to Australia. The species is found widely in the woodlands, forests, and savannahs of northern Australia. It is noted for its elongated oval fruit, which is a rich source of Vitamin C. The plant plays a significant role in both the ecosystem and the traditional diets of Indigenous Australian peoples.

Description

Terminalia ferdinandiana is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach heights of up to 14 meters. It has a spreading canopy with large, oval, green leaves. The flowers are creamy-white and small, appearing in spikes at the ends of branches. The fruit of the Kakadu plum is yellow-green, about 2 cm in length, and contains a large seed. The fruit ripens from March to June, depending on the geographic location within its range.

Distribution and Habitat

The Kakadu plum is endemic to Australia, with its distribution primarily in the northern regions, including the Kakadu National Park, Arnhem Land, and the Kimberley region of Western Australia. It thrives in a variety of soil types but is commonly found in well-drained, sandy soils in open woodland environments.

Cultural and Nutritional Value

Indigenous Australians have used the Kakadu plum for its food and medicinal properties for thousands of years. The fruit is eaten fresh or mixed with water to make a refreshing drink. It is also used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, flu, and headaches.

Nutritionally, the Kakadu plum is exceptional for its high Vitamin C content, reportedly containing up to 100 times the Vitamin C of oranges. It also contains antioxidants, folic acid, and iron. These properties have led to interest in the Kakadu plum as a functional food ingredient and in cosmetic formulations for its anti-aging properties.

Conservation and Use

While Terminalia ferdinandiana is not currently listed as endangered, there is concern over the sustainability of wild harvesting practices due to increased commercial interest. Efforts are being made to cultivate the Kakadu plum to ensure its preservation and to provide benefits to Indigenous communities through commercial enterprises.

Research and Applications

Research into Terminalia ferdinandiana has focused on its nutritional benefits, potential health applications, and use in food preservation. Its high antioxidant capacity is of particular interest for health supplements and as a natural preservative in food products.

See Also

• Australian native plants
• Superfruit
• Indigenous Australian food systems