| Etymology | Genus | Red wood |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Wedge-shaped; perhaps referring to the flatten twigs | |
| Family | Erythroxylaceae | |
| Synonyms | Erythroxylum bancanum Burck, Erythroxylum borneense Merr., Erythroxylum burmanicum Griff. | |
| Common Names | Wild Cocaine, Baka, Beluntas Bukit | |
| Status | Native: Common | |
| Form | Herb | |
| Native Distribution | Malesia | |
Diagnostics:
Erythroxylum cuneatum is a shrub or small tree that is found naturally at coastal areas. The leaves are alternately arranged, hairless, with the underside being pale green, and having a netted venation. What is more distinctive are the twigs with are flatten and have a small slit where the leaf stalk is attached to.
Interesting Facts:
The Wild Cocaine belongs to the Coca family but does not contain the psychoactive stimulant of cocaine. Its wood is said to be very durable and easy to work with; being used for making houses and bridges in Peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra respectively (Slik, 2009). In Bunguran, the leaves are reported to be used in vegetable soup.
A designated heritage tree in Changi (2014).
A small tree at Lazarus Island.
Alternate leaf arrangement.
Flatten twigs with small slits.
Leaf upper surface.
Leaf lower surface, with faint netted venation.
Tiny white flower.
A praying mantis disguised among the foliage.
References
Slik F (2009) Erythroxylum cuneatum. Plants of Southeast Asia. http://www.asianplant.net. Accessed 2-Dec-2018.
Author: Jake
Posted: 2018-12-03