Tembusu
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The tembusu (Template:IPAc-en, Script error: No such module "Respell". or Script error: No such module "Respell".), is a large evergreen tree in the family Gentianaceae, native to Southeast Asia (from Indo-China to New Guinea). It is the Malay name for Cyrtophyllum fragrans (synonym Fagraea fragrans). It is also known as ironwood.[1]
Its trunk is dark brown, with deeply fissured bark, looking somewhat like a bittergourd. The tree grows in an irregular shape from 10 to 25 metres high,[2] with light green oval-shaped leaves, and yellowish flowers with a distinct fragrance. The fruits of the tree are bitter tasting red berries, which are eaten by Pteropus fruit bats.[3]
Uses
The trunk of this tree can produce very hard wood that can be used to make chopping boards and floors.Script error: No such module "Unsubst". The wood can last over a hundred years, as it is not consumed by termites and weevils.
Cultural significance
A distinctive and well-loved tembusu tree growing in the Singapore Botanic Gardens is pictured on the Singaporean five-dollar bill.[4]
References
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- ↑ Template:GRIN
- ↑ Tropical plants site description
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- Note: Fagraea cochinchinensis is now considered a synonym of Aidia cochinchinensis