Benzoin, Storax, Sumatra benzoin
Styrax benzoin
Family: Styracaceae
What it is like
An evergreen tree. It grows 6-12 m high and spreads 3-6 m wide. The trunk is stout. The main branches have a heavy, resinous grey-brown bark. The leaves are 10-15 cm long. There are fine teeth along the edge. The flowers are small and white in panicles of up to 20 flowers.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows in primary mountainous rainforests between 600-1,000 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 10-11.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, India, Indochina, Indonesia (country/location of origin), Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, SE Asia, Thailand, Vietnam
How it is used for food
The bark is the source of a resin used to flavour chewing gum, bake goods, frozen dairy desserts, puddings, soct drinks, candies and chocolate.
It is cultivated.
Edible parts
Gum
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seeds.
Its other names
Local names
Antuc, Ketku-gamyin, Pohon kemenyan