Brief
Baccaurea parviflora, small-flowered baccaurea or locally called Setambun. It is a close relative of rambai (B. motleyana) and tampoi (B. macrocarpa).
Botanical Description
The flowers of the Baccaurea parviflora grow as inflorescence directly from the tree’s main trunk, with the female flowers located just above ground level. This tree can grow up to 4 stories high and is notable for its abundant fruit, often numbering in the hundreds, which hang in long clusters at the base of the trunk. The oval, pointed fruit turns from red to purple when ripe, is three-parted, and contains 1–3 seeds surrounded by a sour-tasting pulp.
Historical / Cultural Significance
Parts of the plant, including its bark, roots, and leaves, are traditionally used to treat ailments such as fevers, digestive issues, and skin irritations. Decoctions made from the bark and leaves serve as anti-inflammatory and cooling agents in traditional medicine. Once commonly found in village hamlets, the tree’s sour fruit and beautiful, durable wood made it highly sought after. Its wood was used to create expensive crafts, leading to extensive harvesting and a significant decline in its population, making it increasingly rare.
Folklore / Etymology
Bacca (Latin): Berry.
Aurea: Golden.
Parviflora: With small flowers.