Mu Tree
Aleurites montana

Family: Euphorbiaceae

What it is like

A deciduous tree. It grows about 9 m tall. The leaves have 3-5 lobes. The flowers are white with a little red in the centre. POISONOUS. Now Vernicia montana Lour.

There are 2-5 Aleurites species. An oil is extracted from the seeds. This is used on wood.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows on well drained soils and hill-sides. In Madagascar it grows between 700-1,700 m altitude. It suits hardiness zones 9-12.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Asia, Australia, China, East Africa, India, Indochina, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Myanmar, SE Asia

How it is used for food

Caution: Poisonous

Edible parts

Oil is not edible. poisonous

How it is grown

The tree is fast growing but short lived. The tree comes into fruit after 3 years.

Its other names

Local names

Tan-si-pin

Synonyms

Vernicia montana Lour.;