Sandoricum beccarianum – A Rare Delight from the Swamp Forests
Botanical Name: Sandoricum beccarianum
Family: Meliaceae
Common Reference: Beccari’s Sandoricum
Native Range: Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo
A Tribute to the Tropics
Tucked away in the lush, waterlogged peatswamp forests of Southeast Asia thrives an exquisite yet lesser-known fruiting tree – Sandoricum beccarianum. This majestic species, named after the renowned Italian botanist Odoardo Beccari, stands as a symbol of biodiversity found near tropical coastlines. Growing up to 35 meters tall with an impressive girth, it’s not only striking in appearance but also generous in fruit.
A Vibrant Fruit with a Tropical Fusion of Flavours
The fruits of Sandoricum beccarianum are round, small, and colourful—blushing in tones of orange-red to pinkish-yellow as they ripen. Inside, their refreshing, juicy flesh carries a mild sweetness with a hint of tang, often likened to a unique blend of mango and lychee.
Ways to Enjoy:
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Eaten fresh as a tropical treat
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Added to smoothies, fruit punches, and cocktails
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Turned into jams, chutneys, or lightly sweetened syrups
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Used in regional desserts and frozen delights
Health Benefits & Nutritional Highlights
Though still under botanical study, the fruit is valued by local communities for being:
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Hydrating and rich in natural sugars
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A source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion
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Believed to contain vitamin C and phytonutrients that support immunity
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Traditionally used to refresh and cool the body in humid climates
The fruit is both gentle on the system and versatile in the kitchen, making it a favourite among those exploring indigenous fruit varieties.
Botanical Beauty and Cultivation Notes
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Flowers: Subtle yellow-green to white blooms appear seasonally, adding visual interest
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Growth Habit: Tall and fast-growing in warm, wet climates
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Soil Preference: Thrives in moist, peaty soil with high organic content
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Light Requirement: Prefers full to partial sunlight
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Maintenance: Moderate—requires regular moisture and space to spread
Though the tree flourishes naturally in wild swampy ecosystems, with care, it can also adapt to home gardens in tropical or sub-tropical conditions, especially near water sources.
A Rare Find at Veliyath Gardens
At Veliyath Gardens, we take pride in introducing rare, culturally rich fruit plants to garden enthusiasts across India. Sandoricum beccarianum, with its beautiful canopy and edible fruit, is one such prized inclusion—bringing together history, taste, and tropical elegance.
Whether you're a plant collector, a culinary explorer, or a nature enthusiast, this tree is a vibrant addition to any fruit garden or exotic landscape.
Embrace the Wild Sweetness
Let Sandoricum beccarianum root itself in your garden and story. Grow something rare. Taste something unforgettable.
Veliyath Gardens – where rare fruits meet passionate growers.