Muntingiaceae

Native: Tropical America

Systematic Position

Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Streptophyta

Order: Malvales

Family: Muntingiaceae

Common Names

English – Singapore Cherry

Malayalam – പഞ്ചാരപ്പഴം

Description: A small tree reaching 3-12m in height, that attain a fan-like droopy branches. Leaves are simple, ovate-lanceolate, dark-green and minutely hairy on the upper side and serrated margin with about 4-14cm long and 1-4cm wide. White flowers are born axillary with about 1.25-2cm wide. Fruits are 1-1.25cm in diameter, with red or sometimes orangey-yellow smooth skin.

Distribution:  All throughout the world.

Uses: Fruits are edible that are used in making used to make jam, preserves, and sauces. It can also be mixed into mint tea. A preferred food for birds.