Synonyms

Uvaria burahol Blume

Systematic Position

Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Tracheophyta

Order: Magnoliales

Family: Annonaceae

Native: Java

Common Names

English – Kepel

Malayalam –  കെപ്പൽ

Description: Stelechocarpus burahol, also known as Burahol, is a tropical tree found in Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia. It can reach heights of up to 30 meters and has large, glossy green leaves. The fruit of the Stelechocarpus burahol tree, called Kepel fruit, is round and initially green, turning yellow-orange as it ripens. It emits a distinct fragrance reminiscent of a mix of pineapple, mango, and banana. While not widely eaten due to its strong smell, the Kepel fruit holds cultural significance in Indonesian traditions and is believed to have medicinal properties.

Habitat:   Humid evergreen forests

Distribution: It is indigenous to Java, Indonesia, and is grown also in Southeast Asia throughout Malesia as far as the Solomons.

Uses: Fruit pulp used as diuretic, to prevent kidney inflammation, and cosmetically in “jamu awet ayu” (traditional Malay medicinal herbs for “lasting beauty”).