Drypetes sepiaria

Family: Putranjivaceae

What it is like

A large tree. The stem has grooves. There can be small buttresses at the base. The bark is pale grey. The branches are irregular and often in clusters and with erect twigs. The leaves are alternate and vary. They are about 5 cm long by 3 cm wide. They are almost heart shaped at the base and round at the tip. They are shiny green above and dull green underneath. The flowers are small and pale yellow. The male flowers are in clusters and the female flowers are almost without stalks. The fruit is small and bright red.

There are about 200 Drypetes species.

Where it is found

It is a tropical and subtropical plant.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, India, Northeastern India, Sri Lanka (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The ripe fruit are eaten fresh.

The fruit are popular in local markets.

Edible parts

Fruit, seed

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Kalvirai, Thanuvam, Veera, Virai, Weerapalam, Wirai

Synonyms

Hemicyclia sepiaria Wight & Arn.;