Calophyllum inophyllum

(Mastwood, Alexandrian Laurel, Beauty Leaf)

Description

A large tree, often found along the coast, it is cyclone resistant. The leathery, glossy green leaves about 40 x 12 cm have a pale midrib and the fine lateral veins are very closely but evenly spaced. The inflorescence is a raceme, the fragrant flowers to about 2.5 cm diameter, have 5 spreading white petals and numerous yellow stamens. The fruit is a globular drupe, up to about 3 cm diameter suspended on a 6 cm stalk. Seeds have a high oil content and should not be eaten. The sap of the tree is a skin irritant. Wood is useful for timber.