Otaheite Walnut, Lumbang Tree

Reutealis trisperma

Physical Characteristics

Reutealis trisperma is an evergreen Tree growing to 12 m (39ft) by 12 m (39ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Southeast Asia - Philippines.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Oil Edible Uses: Oil The oil is used medicinally but no edible uses have been found.

Medicinal Uses

Parasiticide Skin The plant has medicinal uses[266 ]. It is probably the oil that is used. This is similar to tung oil, obtained from Aleurites spp., which is used externally to treat parasitic skin diseases, burns, scalds and wounds[K ]. The sap of the bark is used to cure scurf of the head[345 ].

Known Hazards

The fruit is poisonous[372 ]. The kernels, when fresh, have a pleasant nutty flavour, but leave a burning sensation in mouth, throat, oesophagus and stomach ; even a part of one nut may cause either violent vomiting within half an hour or else a terrific diarrhoea, beginning within a few hours after eating and lasting from 12 - 24 hours[345 ].