Garcinia subelliptica Merr.
| Etymology | Genus | After Laurent Garcen, a 18th century French botanist |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Leaf is sub-elliptic | |
| Family | Clusiaceae | |
| Synonyms | - | |
| Common Names | Fukugi Tree, Happiness Tree | |
| Status | Exotic: Cultivated Only | |
| Form | Tree | |
| Native Distribution | Philippines, Taiwan, and Japan | |
Diagnostics
Garcinia subelliptica is easily identified from its columnar form, and upward pointing branches and leaves.
Interesting Facts
The Fukugi Tree is a very slowing growing species. In the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, some of the oldest trees (100 to 400 years old) are only over 10m (Chen & Nakama, 2011). These ancient trees were planted during Ryukyu Kingdom period as wind breaks.
Row of ornamental planting outside Dhoby Ghaut MRT.
Upward pointing leaves.
Leaf upper and lower surfaces.
Upward pointing branches.
Flowers.
Fruit.
Sliced fruit and seed.
References
Chen B & Y Nakama. (2011) Distribution of Fukugi (Garcinia subelliptica) trees as Landscaping trees in Traditional Villages in Ryukyu Islands in Japan. Pacific Agriculture and Natural Resources, 3: 14-22.
Siyang ·
2014-08-31 / Modified: 2017-12-25