Tooth brush tree, Common perun
Salvadora oleoides

Family: Salvadoraceae

What it is like

A bush or small tree. It grows about 5 m tall. It is gnarled and twisted. The bark is pale grey and can be rough and warty. The leaves are narrow and olive like. They are in opposite pairs on short stalks. They can be 10 cm long and are smooth and grey-green. The flowers are small and greenish-white. They are in compact clusters without stalks. They are in the axils of leaves. The fruit is small and yellowish. They are one seeded berries. They become red-brown when dry. They are sweet.

The fruit are a rich source of calcium.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. It will grow in arid and slightly salty soils. It grows in dry watercourses and rocky depressions.

Countries/locations it is found in

Arabia, Asia, India, Middle East, Pakistan

How it is used for food

The sweet fruit are dried and also eaten raw. They are also used for chutney and for jam.

Edible parts

Fruit, seeds - oil

How it is grown

In India the fruit are available from November to April.

Its other names

Local names

Bada peelu, Bahapilu, Bara pilu, Chootapilu, Diar, Godpilu, Jal, Jall, Jhal, Kalawa, Kallijari, Kankhina, Karkol, Khabar, Khabbar, Khakan, Khara jal, Kinkanela, Kohu, Mithajal, Mitijal, Mitijar, Peehl, Pilava, Pilu, Ughai, Van

Synonyms

Salvadora stocksii Wight;