Manila Elemi
Canarium luzonicumfam. Burseraceae
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Pl. 675F — Canarium luzonicum
Canarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicumCanarium luzonicum
IOverview
Overview
Manila Elemi, scientifically known as Canarium luzonicum and belonging to the Burseraceae family, is a native tree of the Philippines. This evergreen tree can grow up to 30 meters in height and thrives in full sun with moist soil that ranges from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12. Known for its edible parts—fruits, seeds, and shoots—Manila Elemi is a valuable resource in the region. One distinctive feature of this tree is its ability to grow in various soil types, making it adaptable to different environments.
Quick answers
What is Manila Elemi?
Manila Elemi, scientifically known as Canarium luzonicum and belonging to the Burseraceae family, is a native tree of the Philippines. This evergreen tree can grow up to 30 meters in height and thrives in full sun with moist soil that ranges from light (sandy) to heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Manila Elemi thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 10-12. This tree grows to a height of 30 meters and produces edible fruit, seeds, and shoots. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Habit
Tree
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Manila Elemi for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Manila Elemi to experience growing a tree from scratch.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, potting mix, containers if starting in pots.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds or transplant seedlings during the rainy season for better moisture availability.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining soil mix. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a partially shaded area to avoid direct sun.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun once established, keep soil consistently moist, and mulch around the base.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young trees for shape; harvest fruits when they turn yellow. Seeds can be collected from ripe fruit.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting to prune.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeedShoots
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:Essential OilLumberInkoilPest controlResinTanninVarnishWaterproofing
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native· 1 introduced
Asia1 region
native (1)Philippines
Broader regions
introduced:Caroline Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
5 related
See also
5 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Burseraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Burseraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 675f4b6c-8203-4898-a732-5f92e97ce94f
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