Firefly mangrove, mangrove apple

Sonneratia caseolaris

Physical Characteristics

Sonneratia caseolaris is an evergreen Tree growing to 15 m (49ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Moths, bats, birds. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline and saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - S. China, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, New Guinea, northern Australia, Pacific Islands.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Pectin Young berries - raw or cooked[301 , 451 ]. They can be eaten as a fruit, or cooked as a vegetable[418 ]. A sour flavour[451 ]. A cheese-like flavour[301 ]. The fruits are a source of pectin[418 ]. Young leaves - raw[418 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antitussive Haemostatic Parasiticide Poultice Skin The plant is said to be haemostatic[269 ]. It is a folk remedy for sprains, swellings, and worms[269 ]. The old fruit walls are used as a treatment for worms[269 ]. Half-ripe fruits are a treatment for coughs[269 ]. The fruits are used to make poultices[269 ]. The pounded leaves are used as a treatment for haematuria and smallpox[269 ]. The leaves are crushed, mixed with salt and applied as a poultice onto cuts and bruises[269 ].

Known Hazards

None known