Synonyms: 

Sapindus laurifolius Vahl

Systematic Position

Kingdom:  Plantae

Phylum: Tracheophyta

Order: Sapindales

Family: Sapindaceae

Native: South India.

Common Names

English – Soapnut Tree

Malayalam – സൗത്ത് ഇന്ത്യ സോപ്പ്നട്ട്

Description:

Sapindus laurifolius, or the Laurel-leaved Soapberry, is a tree with glossy, laurel-like leaves and small, round fruits that contain natural saponins used for washing and cleaning.

Habitat: Dry, deciduous and evergreen forests.

Distribution: India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar.

Uses: Sapindus laurifolius, is used for its natural cleaning properties, with its fruits containing saponins used for making environmentally friendly detergents and soaps.