Surli nut
Mesua ferrea
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Pl. 48B9 — Mesua ferrea
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IOverview
Overview
Surli nut, scientifically known as Mesua ferrea, is a large evergreen tree native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, and parts of Southeast Asian islands such as Borneo and Java. This versatile plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light or partial shade. It can grow up to 18 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit, leaves, and seeds, making it a valuable resource in local communities. One distinctive feature of the surli nut tree is its ability to adapt to various soil types, from sandy to clay, while requiring full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
Quick answers
What is Surli nut?
Surli nut, scientifically known as Mesua ferrea, is a large evergreen tree native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, and parts of Southeast Asian islands such as Borneo and Java. This versatile plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light or partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Surli nut thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12 and grows up to 18 meters tall. For propagation, use seeds. Ensure the plant has adequate moisture and well-draining soil for best growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
18.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Surli nut for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple Surli nut tree to observe its growth and learn about its care.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Surli nut sapling, well-draining soil, and a large container or planting space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warm but not too hot.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light sandy, medium, or clay soil with good drainage. Ensure containers are at least 1 meter wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a partially shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize with organic compost once a year. Prune lightly to shape the tree.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain the tree's shape and encourage new growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeavesSeed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
18 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
18 native · 3 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 18 native· 3 introduced
Asia11 regions
native (10)BangladeshCambodiaIndiaLaosMyanmarNepalPhilippinesSri LankaThailandVietnam
introduced (1)China
Broader regions
native:Andaman Is., Borneo, East Himalaya, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Nicobar Is.
introduced:Trinidad-Tobago
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 48b9854d-4ece-4026-821a-b713ea1badb3
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