Hydnocarpus alpinus — Edible Plant Database

What to Eat

Edible parts: Medicine

Known Hazards

Although we have seen no specific information for this species, the seeds of many members of this genus contain cyanogenic glycosides. In very small quantities this has been used medicinally, having been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Where to Find It

It is a tropical plant.

Asia, China, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, SE Asia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam,

Countries: United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Brunei, Bhutan, China, Georgia, Indonesia, Israel, India, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Cambodia, North Korea, South Korea, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Laos, Lebanon, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Mongolia, Maldives, Malaysia, Nepal, Oman, Philippines, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Syria, Thailand, Tajikistan, Timor-Leste, Turkmenistan, Turkey, Taiwan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Yemen

How to Identify

A tree. It grows 15 m tall. The young leaves are red. The leaves are simple and alternate. They are 9-26 cm long by 2.5-8.5 cm wide.

How to Grow

Plants can be grown from seeds.

Propagation: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe, when it will usually germinate quickly. Germination of stored seed can be slow, with some species in the genus taking up to 2 years. Sow the seed in a shaded position in a nursery seedbed and keep moist. Grow on the seedlings in shade until large enough to plant out.

Medicinal Uses

The plant is used medicinally.

Other Uses

An oil obtained from the seed is used as a fuel in oil lamps. The following use is more likely to apply to Chlorocarpa pentaschista. See nomenclature notes above. The wood is light brown with streaks of darker colour. It is hard and clearly contains tannins. Of fair quality, it can be used for beams and rafters. The wood makes a good fuel.

Notes

Also put in the Flacourtiaceae family.

Names & Synonyms

Attuchankalai, Kastel, Malamaravetti, Maratatte, Pohon setumpul alpinus, Sanuasolti, Torathi

References (4)

Ambasta, S.P. (Ed.), 2000, The Useful Plants of India. CSIR India. p 276
Icon. pl. Ind. orient. 3(3): t. 942. 1845
Sukarya, D. G., (Ed.) 2013, 3,500 Plant Species of the Botanic Gardens of Indonesia. LIPI p 332 (as alpinus)
World Checklist of Useful Plant Species 2020. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew