Gluta velutina

Gluta velutina is a plant of tropical Asia in the cashew and sumac family Anacardiaceae. The specific epithet velutina is from the Latin meaning 'velvety', referring to the inflorescences.

Description

Gluta velutina grows as a shrub or tree up to tall, with stilt-roots. Its smooth bark is brownish. The leaves measure up to long. The flowers are white. Its roundish, pale brown fruits measure up to in diameter. The wood can cause dermatitis and the fruit and leaves are poisonous.

Distribution and habitat

Gluta velutina grows naturally in Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo and Java. Its habitat is tidal rivers and it is often found with the species Barringtonia conoidea and Pandanus helicopus.