This tree is a native of the Malay Islands. The foliage is symmetrical, and its opposite, shiny leaves are broad, lanceolate, and obtusely-acuminate. The pure white flowers, which bloom from March until June, are about ½-inch in diameter, and are produced in bunches on the naked branches. The fruit, which is also produced in bunches, ripens in October. It is transversely oval in shape, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter at its largest end. It contains from 1 to 3 seeds. Even when quite ripe, the fruit remains pure white in color, and has a tart, insipid flavor. Plate X. |