Elaeocarpus lanceifolius

Family: Elaeocarpaceae

What it is like

A tree. It grows about 20 m tall. The bark is grey and thin and slightly rough. The leaves are 10-15 cm long and 4-5 cm wide. They are broadly sword shaped. The base tapers. They have small teeth along the edge. The flowers are white. They are in clusters behind the leaves. These are 5-17 cm long. The fruit is fleshy with one stone. It is oval and 2-4 cm long. They are green and turn dull red.

There are about 360 Elaeocarpus species mostly in the tropics.

Where it is found

A subtropical plant. In Nepal plants grow between 1000-1800 m altitude. In southern China it grows in forests between 2,300-2,600 m above sea level. In Yunnan.

Countries/locations it is found in

Afghanistan, Asia, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Northeastern India, SE Asia, Sikkim, Thailand, Vietnam

How it is used for food

Ripe fruit are eaten.

Edible parts

Fruit, seeds

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed or by layering.

In NE India plants flower and fruit June to December.

Its other names

Local names

Badras, Banghkri, Batrachi, Bhadrakcha, Bhadrakse, Bhadras, Bhadrasey, Budalet, Com la-thon, Dieng-soh-khyllam, Gyian, Saklang, Shepkyew, Sungameren, Thitpwe, Tung To Shue, Vadrachhya

Synonyms

Elaeocarpus lancaeafolius Roxb.; Elaeocarpus serrulatus Benth.;