Garcinia nitida explained

Garcinia nitida, also known as kandis hutan, is a species of flowering plant, a dioecious understorey fruit tree in the mangosteen family, that is native to Southeast Asia.[1]

Description

The tree grows to 30 m in height, with a 2–6 m bole and small fluted buttresses. The smooth oval leaves are 6–10 cm long by 3–4 cm wide. The white to cream flowers are 4-petalled. The fruits are oval berries, 3–4 cm by 2.5–3 cm in diameter, ripening from yellow to pale orange, enclosing light brown seeds covered with a translucent, edible, sour arillode.[1]

Distribution and habitat

The species is endemic to Borneo, where it is found in lowland and hill mixed dipterocarp forest up to an elevation of 900 m.[1]

Usage

The species is not commonly cultivated. The sour rind and pulp of the fruits are used as a substitute for tamarind in condiments with cooked rice, fish and curries, as well as in jam and sweetened drinks.

Notes and References

  1. Book: Lamb, Anthony . 2019 . A guide to wild fruits of Borneo. Kota Kinabalu . Natural History Publications (Borneo) . 88 . 978-983-812-191-0.