gnetum gnemon
Gnetum gnemon is usually a tree or shruub, and has a single straight trunk marked with conspicuous rings. Its crown is narrow conical to column-like, with short drooping branches. This species is dioecious and produces male and female cones on different trees at the leaf axils.
Taxonomy:
- Family : Gnetaceae
Common Names:
- Malay : Bagu, Belinjau, Meninjau
Habitat and Distribution:
It grows in rainforest, rocky islands, riverbanks, and headlands, up to 1,200 m altitude. It occurs locally in Pulau Tekong. It is native to Singapore (critically endangered), from Assam, through Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, and the Philippines, to Sumba, Celebes, New Guinea, Soloman Islands, and Fiji.
Uses:
- Food (Fruit or Vegetable) : Its young leaves, flowering shoots and fruit are edible when cooked. The kernel of the seed is made into cracker (emping or emping belinjau).
- Medicinal : The roots are used as an antidote for poison, and as a medicine for malaria.
- Timber & Products : Its wood is used for wharfing rafts and boats. Its branches may be used for making barrels.
- Cultural / Religious : There is currently one individual of Gnetum gnemon listed as Heritage Tree in Singapore. To find out more about this tree, please visit the Heritage Tree Register.
- Others : The inner bark provides a fibre, which is made into string bags known as bilum, bow strings, fishing lines, nets, lightweight cord, and caulking boats.