Angelesia splendens Korth.
| Etymology | Genus | - |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Shining or magnificent; likely referring to the leaf surface | |
| Family | Chrysobalanaceae | |
| Synonyms | Licania splendens (Korth.) Prance | |
| Common Names | Buku-buku, Bunga, Gandulong | |
| Status | Native: Vulnerable | |
| Form | Tree | |
| Native Distribution | Thailand, Malesia | |
Diagnostics
Tree that can grow up to 25m tall. The alternately arranged leaves are elliptic in shape, glabrous, dark green on the upper surface and lighter on the lower.
Interesting Facts
The timber is said to be "strong, durable and resistant to marine borers", hence being used as saltwater piles, railroad ties. However, because of silica in the woord, it is extremely hard to work and requires special tools (Slik F., n.d.)
Tree near the start of Lornie Trail (2011).
Branch from underside.
Leaf upper surface.
Leaf lower surface.
Leaf upper surface, with reflective surface.
Flowers.
Flowering branch.
References
Slik F. (n.d.) Plants of Southeast Asia, Licania splendens (Korth.) Prance. Accessed on 25-Aug-2025, from https://asianplant.net/Chrysobalanaceae/Licania_splendens.htm