Lao tree
Microcos tomentosa

Family: Malvaceae

What it is like

A shrub or small tree. It grows 4-15 m tall. The leaves are alternate and simple. They have teeth along the edge. The leaves and flowers have soft hairs. The flowers can be in the axils of leaves or at the ends of branches. The fruit can be 2.5 cm across. They are pale orange with velvety hairs.

They have also been put in the families Tiliaceae and Sparrmanniaceae.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows in evergreen forests at low altitudes.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Cambodia, China, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, SE Asia, Thailand

How it is used for food

The ripe fruit is eaten.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seeds.

In NE Thailand fruit are available August to November.

Its other names

Local names

Chenderai, Chenerah, Darowak, Dluwak, Jenerai, Khom kliang, Khom som, Phla lai, Pohon liak, Pohon talok, Pophlie, Porplear, Talok

Synonyms

Grewia affinis Hassk.; Grewia blumei Hassk.; Grewia paniculata Roxb. [Illegitimate]; Grewia paniculata DC.;