Brief
Pellacalyx saccardianus, locally called Membuluh and comes from the Rhizophoraceae (mangrove) family. This species is primarily found in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, where it grows in tropical rainforest habitats.
Botanical Description
Grows to about 25 m tall. The flowers are small and 5 – 10 mm long.
The fruit is brown, oval or almost round, about 10 mm wide.
Its timber is red, hard, heavy, and durable if protected and not in contact with the ground.
Historical / Cultural Significance
This tree contributes to the health of tropical rainforest ecosystems in countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia. It plays an important role in maintaining soil stability, providing habitat and food for wildlife, and maintaining the structure of the rainforest canopy. From a Biodiversity Support perspective, the tree may interact with a variety of animal, fungal, and insect species, increasing ecological diversity. Indigenous communities may have used Pellacalyx saccardianus for medicinal purposes and as a source of shade.
Folklore / Etymology
Pellacalyx (Greek): “Pella” means “skin” or “covering,” and “calyx” refers to the sepals of a flower. Together, the name may allude to a notable feature of the flower or fruit structure, such as its protective coverings.
‘Saccardianus‘ may refer to Pier Andrea Saccardo, a prominent botanist and mycologist.