Rain Forest Plum (Layer) Fruit Plant

Rambai, scientifically known as Baccaurea motleyana, is a tropical fruit tree native to parts of Southeast Asia. It grows wild in several regions and is widely cultivated for its edible fruit in countries such as Bangladesh, Thailand, and Peninsular Malaysia. It is commonly known as rambai or rambi.

This tree typically grows to a height of 9 to 12 meters, featuring a short trunk and a broad, spreading crown. The evergreen leaves are glossy green on the upper side and greenish-brown with a slightly hairy texture underneath. Each leaf can grow up to 33 cm in length and about 15 cm in width.

Baccaurea motleyana is a dioecious species, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate trees. Both flower types are fragrant and feature yellow sepals. The male (staminate) racemes can reach up to 15 cm in length, while the female (pistillate) inflorescences may grow as long as 75 cm.

The fruits are small, about 2 to 5 cm long and around 2 cm wide, and grow in clusters or strands. Each fruit has a velvety skin that may appear pinkish, yellow, or brown, which becomes wrinkled when ripe. Inside, it contains whitish, juicy pulp with 3 to 5 seeds. The taste of the pulp ranges from sweet to slightly acidic.

Rambai fruits can be eaten fresh or used in cooking, and are also processed into jam and wine. In addition, the tree is valued for providing shade and for its low-quality timber use.