Terengganu Cherry (Layering) Fruit Plant

Terengganu Cherry (Lepisanthes alata) is a medium-sized shady tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. It is native to Southeast Asia and is widely used as an ornamental plant in garden landscapes. Common names include Ceri Terengganu, perupok, pokok Johor, belimbing cina, kelelek, gegelek, Chinese Averrhoe, Malaysian Lepisanthes, Kurumei, Engkili, Rambai Istana, and Ya Ho.

This is a rare and attractive species known for its ornamental foliage, with young purple leaves that turn green, along with purple-red flower clusters. The tree produces globose fruits with 3–4 seeds that are bright red when ripe. It features evergreen leaves with 8 to 12 leaflets, and inflorescences that can grow up to 55 cm long. Flowers and fruits can appear throughout the year rather than in a fixed season. The scentless pink to purple flowers are mostly unisexual, with male and female flowers occurring on the same branch.

Fruit Description and Taste

The Terengganu Cherry fruit is a globose berry about 2–3 cm in diameter. It grows in large clusters of up to 20 fruits. The fruit is shiny deep red with a pointed tip. The flesh is yellow, sweet, and crunchy with a mild tart flavor, while the skin may be astringent if not fully ripe. Each fruit typically contains 3 seeds. Birds are attracted to the fruit, making the tree useful for enhancing biodiversity in gardens. Fruits are best harvested in clusters when they turn deep red, as unripe fruit may taste astringent and dry the mouth. The tree thrives in tropical jungle conditions and can grow in sandy to heavy clay soils.

Terengganu Cherry Benefits

100 g of Terengganu Cherry contains approximately 77.7% moisture, 9.5% dietary fiber, 0.8% sugar, and 16 mg of vitamin C.
It supports immune health and may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, prenatal health issues, eye disorders, and skin aging.
Traditionally, it has been used in the treatment of cerebral malaria, fever with vertigo, chest pain, nosebleed, and muscular spasms.
Young leaves are also consumed as a vegetable in parts of South Thailand.