Elaeocarpus womersleyi
Family: Elaeocarpaceae
What it is like
A large tree up to 34 m tall mostly with buttresses. The leaves are arranged alternatively, are simple and have a toothed margin. The flowers and fruit are in groups on a small branch. The fruit can be up to 10 cm across with green flesh and a stone inside which has a hard corrugated surface. The hard stone has 3 valves and is cracked to release the kernel.
There are about 360 Elaeocarpus species mostly in the tropics.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It occurs from sea level up to at least 2400 m altitude but is most common in mid altitude regions. It is common in bush regrowth in old gardens.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Indonesia, Pacific, Papua New Guinea, SE Asia, West Papua
How it is used for food
The kernel of the nut is eaten.
In Papua New Guinea, an occasional nut tree in quite a few highland areas. It is mainly just harvested and used when found.
Edible parts
Nuts, seeds
How it is grown
It normally grows wild but is occasionally planted from seed.
Fruit production is seasonal probably late August to September.