Engkala Fruit Plants (Litsea Garciae)

Common Names: Butter Fruit Tree, Malai

Botanical Name: Litsea Garciae

General Information: Engkala, also known as Litsea Garciae, is an evergreen tree believed to be native to Borneo.

The fruit is small with a delicate, avocado-like flavor. The thin skin turns from pink to purple. The creamy white flesh fruits are seated on cup-shaped cheering bracts.

Nutritional Content:

Engkala contains some vitamin C, potassium, antioxidants, and fiber. The fruits provide fiber to regulate the digestive tract, calcium to build strong bones and teeth, iron for haemoglobin production, and other nutrients like manganese, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, and copper.

Engkalak is one of the traditional foods of the Iban people in Borneo. The bark of the tree is used by the Iban people to treat insect stings, boils, burns, and snakebites.

Cultivation Information:

Bloom Time/Fruiting: 3-4 Years

Maintenance Required: Moderate