Rumdul (Seedling) Fruit Plant

Rumdul (Sphaerocoryne affinis) is a species of flowering plant in the Annonaceae (soursop) family, highly regarded in Cambodia and Thailand. The plant is an evergreen tree that typically grows 10–12 meters tall, with a stem diameter of 20–30 cm and yellow-brown bark. It is especially famous for its highly fragrant flowers, which have been declared the national flower of Cambodia.

Plant and Flower Characteristics

The leaves are simple, alternate, flat, and measure about 2–4 cm in width and 6–10 cm in length. The flowers are whitish-yellow and strongly aromatic, with fragrance most noticeable in the afternoon and evening, often detectable from a long distance.

Fruit Description

The fruits are small, round berries about 10–12 mm wide, usually borne in clusters. They turn nearly black when fully mature. The edible fruit is known for its rich, sweet aroma and is sometimes consumed locally, especially during the fruiting season when it is also collected and sold in markets.

Uses and Importance

Rumdul is valued both for its fragrant flowers and edible fruits. The fruit and floral aroma are often used in traditional aromatherapy and natural healing practices due to their strong, pleasant scent. It is also an important seasonal source of income for local harvesters in Cambodia and Thailand.